The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Series on BBC
The acclaimed crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.
An upcoming six-part series created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast in the coming months, according to the production team.
The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The last season wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that attracted more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been circulating for some time, but official word only came this week.
Fresh Obstacles for The Team
Series seven begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by production details.
Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most delicate case so far."
New Character and Complex Case
An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.
Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.
In a statement, the creator said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had so many fans watch the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a new installment."
Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while the series was off air, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Actor Responses
Martin Compston described appearing in the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".
"Beyond the show's success but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he said.
The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the AC-12 return, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."
"Pleased with the news and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and evolved into one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.
The BBC has not yet announced exactly the upcoming series will premiere.
The finale of series six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers said at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.
However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.