The Hit Drama Announced for 7th Series on BBC
The acclaimed crime series AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th season, announced by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-episode season written by the show's creator starts production in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The last season concluded in recent years with a finale that drew in over 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.
New Challenges for AC-12
Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.
Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings remain tasked to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.
The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."
New Character and Intricate Plot
A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.
However, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the shadows, the teaser hinted.
Speaking about the renewal, the creator said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new season."
He added: "Misconduct in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Actor Responses
The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he added.
Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is back! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and became a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring guest stars such as Lennie James.
Broadcasters haven't revealed exactly the upcoming series will premiere.
The conclusion of series six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team said at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.
However, the network announced on Tuesday that a new season is now in development.