The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Season on BBC
The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the BBC.
An upcoming six-episode series written by the show's creator starts production in Belfast in the coming months, according to the production team.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, stating she was "so excited" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."
The last series wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only arrived recently.
New Challenges for The Team
Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by production details.
Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to combat misconduct within the police force.
The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case to date."
New Character and Intricate Plot
An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for busts of organized crime, is accused of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.
However, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a larger danger still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"It's an honor to have had so many fans track the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh season."
Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my creativity."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Beyond the show's success but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.
The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon."
"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."
Show History
Line of Duty launched in 2012 and evolved into a highly successful television series of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.
The BBC haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.
The finale of series six drew the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the time there were no intentions for further series.
Nevertheless, the network announced on Tuesday that a new season is now in development.