Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC
The beloved crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th season, confirmed by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-part series created by the show's creator will begin filming in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the production team.
The actress expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together soon."
The previous series concluded in recent years with a finale that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread ever since, but official word only came this week.
New Challenges for AC-12
Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by production details.
Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to tackle corruption within the police force.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case so far."
New Character and Complex Case
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to act as a sexual predator.
Yet, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the shadows, plot details hinted.
Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"It's an honor to have had countless followers watch the developments of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh season."
Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Actor Responses
Martin Compston described being part of the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".
"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he added.
The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"
The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the announcement and anticipating those unexpected plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became one of the most popular television series of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Lennie James.
Broadcasters haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.
The finale of series six drew the extended plot about the search for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.
However, the network announced on Tuesday that a new season is now being produced.