Line of Duty Confirmed for Seventh Series on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Martin Compston are set to reprise their roles in the popular crime series

The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty will make a comeback for its 7th season, announced by the BBC.

An upcoming six-part season written by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast this spring, according to the network.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together soon."

The previous season wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that attracted over 17 million audience members. Rumors about a new season have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.

New Challenges for AC-12

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

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to tackle misconduct within the law enforcement.

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

New Character and Intricate Plot

A new character, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of abusing his position to act as a sexual predator.

However, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the background, plot details suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"It's an honor to have had so many followers track the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be coming back for a seventh season."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston called appearing in the series as "the role of a career".

"Beyond the show's success but the people I've worked with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Martin and Dunbar 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 central trio will be back filming next year."

"Delighted with the news and anticipating those unexpected plot developments."

Series Legacy

Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters has not yet announced exactly the upcoming series will premiere.

The finale of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and the creative team said at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.

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

Ryan Mack
Ryan Mack

A tech journalist and digital anthropologist focusing on the societal impacts of emerging technologies and online communities.