Line of Duty Confirmed for 7th Season on BBC
The beloved police drama AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th installment, announced by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the network.
The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together next year."
The last series concluded in 2021 with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but official word only came this week.
New Challenges for AC-12
Series seven will open with AC-12 no longer existing and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to production details.
Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings remain tasked to combat corruption within the police force.
The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."
New Character and Complex Case
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer celebrated for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a offender.
Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.
Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."
"It's an honor to have had so many followers watch the ups and downs of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new season."
He added: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called appearing in the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".
"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he said.
Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is back! Can't wait to work with the creator, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
The veteran actor commented: "As we count down the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together soon."
"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."
Series Legacy
The drama launched in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful television series of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.
The BBC has not yet announced when the new season will premiere.
The finale of series six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no plans for further series.
However, the network confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.
