Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Series on BBC
The beloved crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.
An upcoming six-part season written by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, according to the production team.
Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, stating she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together soon."
The previous series concluded in 2021 with a finale that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.
New Challenges for The Team
Series seven begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by the announcement.
Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."
New Character and Intricate Plot
An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.
Yet, this investigation could be a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, plot details suggested.
In a statement, the creator commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new season."
Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
The Scottish actor described being part of the series as "the role of a career".
"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he added.
Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."
"Delighted with the news and anticipating those unexpected twists and turns."
Show History
The drama premiered in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.
The BBC has not yet announced exactly the upcoming series will hit screens.
The finale of season six brought the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and the creative team indicated at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.
Nevertheless, the network announced on this week that a seventh series is now in development.
