The Hit Drama Confirmed for Seventh Season on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Adrian Dunbar will return their characters in the popular crime series

The acclaimed police drama AC-12 will make a comeback for its seventh installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-episode season written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the network.

The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together next year."

The last season wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that attracted over 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating for some time, but official word only arrived recently.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

Series seven begins with AC-12 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 remain working to tackle misconduct within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers will take on their "most delicate case to date."

New Character and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a offender.

However, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"It's an honor to have had so many followers watch the developments of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a new installment."

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 creativity."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston called appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".

"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the unit return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."

"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."

Series Legacy

Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and evolved into a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Stephen Graham.

The BBC has not yet announced when the new season will hit screens.

The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no plans for further series.

Nevertheless, the network announced on this week that a seventh series is now in development.

Angela Gibson
Angela Gibson

Astrophysicist and space journalist with 15 years of experience covering orbital missions and celestial phenomena.