Bradley Walsh’s departure ends ‘Law & Order: UK’ for the foreseeable future

ITV and Kudos has announced their decision to rest Law & Order: UK after eight series following the departure of Bradley Walsh.

“There may well come a time when we re-visit Law & Order: UK,” said ITV’s Director of Drama Commissions Steve November.  “For the moment we’ll be resting the series whilst we continue to refresh our drama slate.”

The hugely popular series based on the American series created by Dick Wolf, stars Bradley Walsh as the only remaining original character, DS Ronnie Brooks, alongside Ben Bailey Smith, Peter Davison, Georgia Taylor and Dominic Rowan.

“Ronnie Brooks is one of my best friends,” said Bradley who is leaving to pursue other projects.  “It’s been an absolute pleasure to inhabit Ronnie’s Mac for as long as I have.  Eight series is a wonderful achievement for everyone involved in the production. This has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make.  I hope one day to revisit him, but for now I’d like the opportunity to pursue other drama projects which ITV are developing,” he added.

“Don’t forget you have one more chance to watch Ronnie in action on 11 June. I’d really love fans of the series, old and new, to watch the final episode to give the series a fitting and proper send off.”

Law & Order: UK is produced by Kudos, (part of Shine Group), Wolf Films and NBC Universal.

“It’s been a privilege for Kudos to produce Law & Order: UK over the last eight series,” said Kudos producer Jane Featherstone. “It’s success and huge audience appeal over all of these years is a testament to the cast, crew and production team who have worked tirelessly to bring such great drama to air,” said Jane.

The final episode of Law & Order: UK, airs on ITV on Wednesday 11 June at 9pm.