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The world of espionage is about to get a whole lot more crowded. Gary Oldman, star of Apple TV+'s acclaimed spy drama Slow Horses, has hinted at a potential narrative collision with the beloved BBC series Line of Duty. While not a direct crossover, Oldman’s comments suggest a thematic rivalry, acknowledging Line of Duty as a significant benchmark in British crime drama and hinting at Slow Horses' ambition to carve its own distinct path – and perhaps even surpass it.

Slow Horses, adapted from Mick Herron's acclaimed series of novels, follows a team of disgraced MI5 agents relegated to a dumping ground department known as 'Slough House.' Led by the brilliantly cynical Jackson Lamb (Oldman), this ragtag group of misfits are tasked with cleaning up the messes that the agency would rather forget. Season 7, set to premiere on Apple TV+ soon, promises a particularly high-stakes mission.

According to Apple’s official synopsis, Season 7 will see Lamb and his team – a collection of decidedly inept spies – facing their most challenging adversary yet: a mole operating within the very heart of the British Government. The stakes are incredibly high, and the pressure is on for Lamb and his team to identify and neutralise the threat before it’s too late. This season delves deeper into the murky world of espionage, exploring themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the sacrifices made in the name of national security.

Oldman’s acknowledgement of Line of Duty’s influence is noteworthy. The latter series captivated audiences with its intricate plots, morally ambiguous characters, and relentless exploration of police corruption. Line of Duty set a high bar for British crime drama, and Slow Horses is clearly aware of the challenge. However, Oldman and the show's creators are confident in their ability to distinguish Slow Horses through its unique tone, darkly comedic elements, and focus on the often-overlooked lower rungs of the intelligence service.

“Line of Duty was brilliant, absolutely brilliant,” Oldman stated in a recent interview. “But we’re doing something different. We’re looking at the other side of the coin – the failures, the forgotten, the people who get left behind. It’s a different perspective on the world of espionage, and I think that’s what makes it compelling.”

The anticipation for Season 7 is palpable. With its stellar cast, sharp writing, and increasingly complex storylines, Slow Horses is poised to deliver another thrilling season of espionage intrigue. The subtle rivalry with Line of Duty's legacy only adds to the excitement, promising a season that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats and questioning everything they thought they knew about the world of British intelligence. Will Lamb and his 'Slow Horses' rise to the challenge and prove themselves worthy contenders in the landscape of elite British crime dramas?