Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC

The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th season, confirmed by the broadcaster.

An upcoming six-episode season written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the production team.

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."

The last series concluded in 2021 with a final episode that attracted over 17 million audience members. Rumors about a new season have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only came this week.

New Challenges for AC-12

The seventh season will open with AC-12 no longer existing and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.

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

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, these officers will take on their "most delicate case to date."

New Character and Complex Case

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

However, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still operating in the background, plot details suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"It's an honor to have had countless followers watch the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new installment."

He added: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"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.

Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the unit return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."

"Pleased with the news and anticipating those mercurial plot developments."

Show History

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became a highly successful television series of the last decade, attracting notable actors such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters haven't revealed exactly the new season will hit screens.

The finale of series six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers said at the time there were no intentions for further series.

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