🔗 Share this article

The acclaimed crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-part series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast in the coming months, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Her co-star remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."

The previous season concluded in recent years with a final episode that drew in over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only came recently.

New Challenges for The Team

Series seven will open with AC-12 no longer existing and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue working to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case so far."

New Character and Intricate Plot

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of organized crime, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser hinted.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"It's an honor to have had so many fans watch the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a new season."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."

Actor Responses

The Scottish actor described being part of the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".

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

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

Vicky McClure remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

The veteran actor commented: "While anticipating the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."

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

Series Legacy

The drama launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular television series of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Kelly Macdonald.

The BBC haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.

The conclusion of series six brought the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.