Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC

The acclaimed 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 starts production in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the series' return. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."

The previous series wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million audience members. Rumors about a new season have been widespread for some time, but official word only came this week.

New Challenges for AC-12

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by production details.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings remain working to tackle corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, these officers are assigned their "most delicate case so far."

Fresh Face and Complex Case

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for busts of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.

However, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio commented: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had so many fans track the developments of AC-12 over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh season."

He added: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while the series was off air, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston 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 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 Line of Duty is back! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."

"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."

Show History

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters has not yet announced when the new season will hit screens.

The finale of season six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a conclusion, and the creative team said at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.

Nevertheless, the corporation announced on this week that a seventh series is now being produced.