Line of Duty Announced for 7th Series on BBC
The acclaimed police drama AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th season, confirmed by the BBC.
An upcoming six-episode series written by the show's creator will begin filming in Northern Ireland this spring, as confirmed by the production team.
Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the series' return. Her co-star added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The previous season wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but official word only came this week.
New Challenges for The Team
The seventh season will open with AC-12 no longer existing and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to production details.
Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.
Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio will take on their "most delicate case to date."
New Character and Intricate Plot
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.
However, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.
In a statement, the creator said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."
"We're privileged to have had so many followers track the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh season."
Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."
Actor Responses
Martin Compston called being part of the series as "the role of a career".
"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."
"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.
Vicky McClure stated: "Obviously I'm very happy Line of Duty is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."
"Pleased with the announcement and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."
Series Legacy
The drama launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.
Broadcasters haven't revealed exactly the new season will premiere.
The conclusion of series six brought the extended plot about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers said at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.
Nevertheless, the corporation announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.
