Line of Duty Confirmed for 7th Season on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Vicky McClure will return their characters in the acclaimed police drama

The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty will make a comeback for its seventh season, announced by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-part season written by the show's creator will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the production team.

The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together next year."

The last series concluded in recent years with a finale that drew in over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only came this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

Series seven will open with AC-12 no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to production details.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings remain tasked to tackle corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."

Fresh Face and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

Yet, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the background, plot details suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

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

Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston described being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the AC-12 return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming soon."

"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

Broadcasters has not yet announced when the upcoming series will premiere.

The conclusion of series six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no plans for further series.

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

Stacey Fields
Stacey Fields

Elara is a published novelist and writing coach with a passion for helping aspiring authors find their unique voice and build engaging stories.