The Hit Drama Confirmed for 7th Series on BBC
The beloved police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh season, announced 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 production team.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The previous series wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but official word only arrived this week.
Fresh Obstacles for The Team
The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.
Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings remain working to combat corruption within the law enforcement.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most delicate case so far."
New Character and Intricate Plot
An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for busts of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.
However, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser hinted.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh installment."
He added: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston described being part of the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".
"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he said.
The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the news and anticipating those mercurial plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and evolved into one of the most popular television series of the last decade, attracting notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.
The BBC haven't revealed when the new season will hit screens.
The finale of season six brought the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team said at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.
However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.
