Line of Duty Confirmed for 7th Season on BBC
The beloved police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh season, confirmed by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-part season created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, as confirmed by the production team.
The actress shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."
The previous series concluded in recent years with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been widespread ever since, but official word only came recently.
Fresh Obstacles for AC-12
Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.
Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue working to combat corruption within the police force.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most delicate case so far."
Fresh Face and Intricate Plot
An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer known for takedowns of organized crime, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a offender.
Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still active in the background, plot details hinted.
Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the ups and downs of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."
Mercurio continued: "Corruption 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 described being part of the series as "the role of a career".
"Beyond the show's success but the people I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.
The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is returning! Can't wait to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the unit days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming soon."
"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns."
Series Legacy
The drama premiered in 2012 and evolved into one of the most popular television series of the past ten years, featuring guest stars such as Lennie James.
The BBC haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.
The finale of series six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers said at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.
Nevertheless, the network confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.
