Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC
The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th season, announced by the BBC.
A brand new six-episode series written by the show's creator will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.
Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."
The last season wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating for some time, but confirmation only arrived recently.
New Challenges for AC-12
The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to production details.
Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to tackle misconduct within the police force.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case so far."
New Character and Complex Case
An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer celebrated for busts of criminal networks, is accused of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.
Yet, his case could be a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the shadows, the teaser suggested.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"It's an honor to have had countless fans track the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new season."
Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."
Actor Responses
The Scottish actor called being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."
"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he said.
Vicky McClure remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston 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 central trio will be working together soon."
"Pleased with the news and anticipating those mercurial plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and became a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Stephen Graham.
The BBC has not yet announced when the upcoming series will hit screens.
The finale of season six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for kingpin known as "H" to a conclusion, and the creative team indicated at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.
However, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a new season is now in development.
