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The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-part series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The last season wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread ever since, but official word only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

The seventh season begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, 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, these officers are assigned their "most delicate case so far."

New Character and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

Yet, his case could be a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, plot details hinted.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be coming back for a new season."

Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston called being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".

"Beyond the show's success but the people I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."

"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm very happy Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 return, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."

"Delighted with the news and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."

Show History

The drama launched in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

The conclusion of season six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a conclusion, and producers indicated at the moment there were no intentions for further series.

However, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.