Line of Duty Announced for 7th Season on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Martin Compston are set to reprise their roles in the popular crime series

The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the broadcaster.

An upcoming six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.

The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, stating 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 last season concluded in recent years with a finale that drew in over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only came recently.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by production details.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings remain working to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a offender.

Yet, his case could be a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, plot details hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"It's an honor 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 coming back for a seventh season."

Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."

"Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected plot developments."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in 2012 and became a highly successful TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Stephen Graham.

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

The finale of series six brought the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "H" to a close, and the creative team said at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.

Nevertheless, the network announced on this week that a new season is now in development.

Mark Williams
Mark Williams

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