🔗 Share this article

The beloved police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, announced by the BBC.

An upcoming six-part season written by the show's creator will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.

The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together soon."

The last series concluded in recent years 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 recently.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain working to tackle corruption within the law enforcement.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case to date."

New Character and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.

In a statement, the creator commented: "Everyone involved 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 are thrilled to be coming back for a new installment."

He added: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston described appearing in the series as "the role of a career".

"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.

Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with the creator, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."

"Pleased with the news and looking forward to those unexpected plot developments."

Series Legacy

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became a highly successful TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Kelly Macdonald.

The BBC has not yet announced when the upcoming series will hit screens.

The conclusion of season six brought the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

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