Line of Duty Announced for 7th Season on the British Broadcaster
The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the BBC.
A brand new six-episode season written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, 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 back filming together next year."
The last series concluded in 2021 with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only came this week.
New Challenges for AC-12
The seventh season begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, as revealed by production details.
Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to tackle corruption within the law enforcement.
The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case so far."
New Character and Intricate Plot
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer known for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a offender.
Yet, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser suggested.
In a statement, the creator said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."
"It's an honor to have had countless fans watch the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."
He added: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends."
"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he added.
The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is returning! Eager 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 return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."
"Delighted with the news and anticipating those unexpected plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty premiered in the early 2010s and evolved into one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.
The BBC has not yet announced when the upcoming series will premiere.
The finale of series six drew the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers indicated at the time there were no plans for further series.
Nevertheless, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a new season is now being produced.
