Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Vicky McClure will return their roles in the popular police drama

The acclaimed police drama AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-part season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.

The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The previous season wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to production details.

Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue working to tackle corruption within the police force.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

Fresh Face and Complex Case

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

However, this investigation could be a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a new season."

He added: "Misconduct in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston described appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the program's popularity but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends."

"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he added.

Vicky McClure stated: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."

"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."

Series Legacy

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters haven't revealed when the new season will hit screens.

The finale of season six drew the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.

However, the corporation announced on this week that a new season is now being produced.

Benjamin Moody
Benjamin Moody

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in tech innovation, specializing in user-centric design and sustainable business growth.