Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC
The beloved crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th season, announced by the broadcaster.
An upcoming six-episode series created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the production team.
Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together soon."
The previous series wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread ever since, but official word 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 Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to production details.
Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to tackle corruption within the police force.
The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio will take on their "most delicate case to date."
New Character and Intricate Plot
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer celebrated for busts of criminal networks, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.
Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"It's an honor to have had so many followers track the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh season."
He added: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while the series was off air, so I've been forced to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston described appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Beyond the show's success but the people I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.
Vicky McClure stated: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon."
"Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."
Series Legacy
The drama launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, attracting notable actors such as Stephen Graham.
Broadcasters haven't revealed when the upcoming series will premiere.
The finale of season six brought the extended plot about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the moment there were no plans for further series.
However, the network announced on this week that a seventh series is now in development.