The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Series on BBC
The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th season, announced by the broadcaster.
An upcoming six-part season created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, as confirmed by the production team.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together soon."
The previous series wrapped up in recent years with a finale that drew in over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only arrived this week.
New Challenges for The Team
Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by production details.
Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings remain tasked to combat misconduct within the police force.
The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."
Fresh Face and Complex Case
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a offender.
Yet, his case might serve as a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still operating in the background, plot details suggested.
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 so many followers track the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new installment."
Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my creativity."
Cast Reactions
The Scottish actor called being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Not only the show's success but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he said.
The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
The veteran actor commented: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."
Show History
Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and became a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.
The BBC haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.
The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.
However, the corporation confirmed on this week that a seventh series is now in development.
