The Hit Drama Announced for 7th Series on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Vicky McClure will return their characters in the acclaimed crime series

The acclaimed crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh season, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-episode season written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together next year."

The last season wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only came recently.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season begins with AC-12 no longer existing and renamed as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to tackle misconduct within the police force.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most delicate case so far."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, is accused of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.

Yet, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the background, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"It's an honor to have had countless followers track the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh installment."

He added: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston described appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

The veteran actor commented: "While anticipating the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."

"Pleased with the news and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns."

Series Legacy

The drama launched in the early 2010s and evolved into one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters has not yet announced exactly the new season will premiere.

The conclusion of season six drew the extended plot about the search for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

Nevertheless, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.

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John Hart

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