Line of Duty to return for seventh series, BBC confirms

Line of Duty to return for seventh series, BBC confirms

The BBC has confirmed that the acclaimed police drama *Line of Duty* will return for a seventh series, with Adrian Dunbar, Vicky McClure, and Martin Compston all set to reprise their iconic roles. The upcoming series, consisting of six episodes and penned by the show’s creator Jed Mercurio, is scheduled to begin filming in Belfast this spring.

Fans of the series have eagerly anticipated the show’s return since the conclusion of the sixth season in 2021, which drew over 17 million viewers. While there had been considerable speculation about whether the story would continue, the BBC and Mercurio had remained tight-lipped until now. The broadcaster has yet to announce an official air date for the new season.

In a notable development, the seventh series will start with AC-12 being disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards. The core team—Steve Arnott (Compston), Kate Fleming (McClure), and Ted Hastings (Dunbar)—will continue their fight against police corruption under this new banner. According to the BBC, the trio will face their most sensitive investigation yet, emphasizing how challenging their work has become.

A fresh character, Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, a decorated officer known for taking down organized crime, will be introduced and is accused of abusing his power as a sexual predator. However, the announcement hints that this case might be a smokescreen concealing an even greater danger lurking behind the scenes. Jed Mercurio expressed gratitude toward the show’s loyal audience and acknowledged the challenge of imagining new corruption storylines given recent developments, saying, “Corruption in this country is supposed to have come to an end while *Line of Duty* was off air so I’ve been forced to use my imagination.”

Since its 2012 debut, *Line of Duty* has become one of the UK’s most successful dramas, featuring guest appearances from notable actors such as Stephen Graham, Thandiwe Newton, Kelly Macdonald, and Lennie James. Compston reflected on the significance of the series in his career, calling it “a job of a lifetime” and highlighting the close friendships formed with his co-stars. Both McClure and Dunbar shared their excitement about returning to the show and working together once again

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More