Line of Duty Announced for 7th Season on the British Broadcaster
The acclaimed crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh installment, confirmed by the BBC.
An upcoming six-episode series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the network.
Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The previous series wrapped up in recent years with a finale that drew in over 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only came recently.
New Challenges for AC-12
The seventh season begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by the announcement.
Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to tackle corruption within the police force.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case to date."
Fresh Face and Complex Case
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.
Yet, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, the teaser suggested.
Speaking about the renewal, the creator said: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the show's fans."
"We're privileged to have had so many followers track the developments of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh season."
He added: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while the series was off air, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called appearing in the series as "the role of a career".
"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.
Vicky McClure stated: "Obviously I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Can't wait to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."
"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."
Show History
Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.
The BBC has not yet announced when the upcoming series will premiere.
The conclusion of series six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no plans for further series.
However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.
