The Hit Drama Announced for 7th Season on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Vicky McClure are set to reprise their characters in the popular police drama

The beloved crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-episode season written by the show's creator will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, according to the network.

The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."

The last series wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that attracted over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but official word only came recently.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to production details.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case to date."

New Character and Intricate Plot

A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer known for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.

Yet, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had so many fans track the developments of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston described being part of the series as "the role of a career".

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

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying I'm very happy Line of Duty is returning! Can't wait to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

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 back filming soon."

"Delighted with the announcement and anticipating those unexpected twists and turns."

Show History

The drama launched in 2012 and evolved into a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring guest stars such as Stephen Graham.

Broadcasters haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.

The finale of series six drew 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 plans for further series.

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

Alexandra James
Alexandra James

Award-winning investigative journalist with over 15 years of experience covering political and social issues across Europe.