Line of Duty Confirmed for 7th Season on the British Broadcaster
The beloved crime series AC-12 will make a comeback for its seventh installment, announced by the BBC.
An upcoming six-part season created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.
The actress shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together next year."
The last season wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but official word only arrived this week.
New Challenges for The Team
The seventh season will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to production details.
Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to combat misconduct within the police force.
Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio will take on their "most delicate case to date."
Fresh Face and Intricate Plot
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer known for busts of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to act as a offender.
However, his case could be a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, plot details suggested.
In a statement, the creator commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"It's an honor to have had countless followers track the ups and downs of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be coming back for a seventh season."
He added: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Not only the program's popularity but the people 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 stated: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."
"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns."
Show History
Line of Duty premiered in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular television series of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Stephen Graham.
The BBC haven't revealed exactly the new season will hit screens.
The conclusion of season six brought the extended plot about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers indicated at the time there were no plans for further series.
Nevertheless, the corporation announced on this week that a seventh series is now being produced.