The first episode of the new BBC thriller Vigil has been compared to Line of Duty by viewers, thanks to one early twist.
The new six-part series, which follows the aftermath of a mysterious death aboard a Trident submarine, stars Martin Compston, the actor best known for playing Steve Arnott on Line of Duty.
Spoilers follow for Vigil episode one…
Even though Compston was expected to feature prominently in the new series, his character was in fact killed off within the first eight minutes of episode one, which debuted on BBC last night (29 August).
Viewers compared the stunt casting to James Nesbitt’s appearance in the recent season of Line of Duty.
Nesbitt appeared in Line of Duty’s sixth season as corrupt former police officer Marcus Thurwell.
However, the character was only ever seen in a file photo, and was killed off-screen before he was able to be brought in for questioning.
While Compston was given the luxury of a speaking role in Vigil, viewers nonetheless likened the casting to Line of Duty.
“This gives off the same energy #LineofDuty #Vigil,” wrote one viewer.
“At least Martin got to speak,” joked another.
The series also stars Suranne Jones and Rose Leslie, and was created by Tom Edge.
Vigil continues tonight (30 August) at 9pm on BBC One. Episodes are available to stream on BBC iPlayer after airing.
