The Hit Drama Announced for 7th Season on BBC
The acclaimed crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, confirmed by the BBC.
A brand new six-episode season created by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the production team.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."
The previous series wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating for some time, but official word only came recently.
Fresh Obstacles for AC-12
The seventh season will open with AC-12 no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to production details.
Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue working to combat corruption within the law enforcement.
The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most delicate case to date."
Fresh Face and Complex Case
A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to act as a sexual predator.
However, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the background, plot details suggested.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a new season."
Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
The Scottish actor called being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he said.
Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."
"Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and became a highly successful television series of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Stephen Graham.
The BBC has not yet announced exactly the new season will hit screens.
The conclusion of series six brought the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers said at the time there were no plans for further series.
Nevertheless, the corporation announced on this week that a seventh series is now in development.
