The Hit Drama Confirmed for 7th Series on BBC
The beloved police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, confirmed by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-part season created by the show's creator starts production in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.
The actress shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."
The last series concluded in 2021 with a finale that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only came this week.
New Challenges for AC-12
The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.
Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain working to tackle misconduct within the police force.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case so far."
New Character and Complex Case
An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.
Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, plot details suggested.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."
He added: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."
"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he said.
The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the news and anticipating those unexpected plot developments."
Series Legacy
The drama premiered in the early 2010s and evolved into one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Kelly Macdonald.
The BBC has not yet announced exactly the new season will premiere.
The finale of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a conclusion, and producers indicated at the time there were no plans for further series.
Nevertheless, the corporation announced on this week that a new season is now being produced.