Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Series on BBC
The acclaimed crime series Line of Duty will make a comeback for its 7th season, announced by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-episode season written by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the series' return. Her co-star remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The previous series wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that attracted over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only came this week.
Fresh Obstacles for The Team
The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.
Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue working to tackle corruption within the law enforcement.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case to date."
New Character and Complex Case
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to act as a sexual predator.
However, his case might serve as a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the background, the teaser hinted.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the show's fans."
"We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be coming back for a new installment."
He added: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Beyond the show's success but the people I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.
Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor commented: "While anticipating the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."
"Pleased with the news and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty premiered in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular television series of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.
Broadcasters has not yet announced exactly the new season will premiere.
The finale of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.
Nevertheless, the network confirmed on this week that a seventh series is now in development.
