Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Series on BBC

The beloved police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.

An upcoming six-part series created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the production team.

The actress expressed excitement about the return, stating she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."

The previous season wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.

New Challenges for AC-12

Series seven begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to production details.

Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain working to tackle misconduct within the law enforcement.

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, these officers are assigned their "most delicate case to date."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to act as a offender.

However, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the developments of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a new installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was off air, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the show's success but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

Vicky McClure remarked: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is back! Can't wait to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "As we count down the AC-12 return, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."

"Pleased with the news and anticipating those unexpected twists and turns."

Show History

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and evolved into one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Kelly Macdonald.

Broadcasters has not yet announced exactly the new season will hit screens.

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

However, the network confirmed on this week that a seventh series is now being produced.