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.
A brand new six-part season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.
The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The last series wrapped up in recent years with a finale that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but official word only arrived this week.
New Challenges for The Team
The seventh season begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by production details.
Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to combat corruption within the police force.
The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most delicate case so far."
New Character and Complex Case
An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer known for busts of organized crime, is accused of abusing his position to become a offender.
However, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.
In a statement, the creator said: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the show's fans."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a new installment."
Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was off air, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."
Actor Responses
The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "the role of a career".
"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."
"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he added.
Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm very happy Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be back filming soon."
"Pleased with the announcement and anticipating those unexpected plot developments."
Series Legacy
Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became a highly successful television series of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Lennie James.
The BBC has not yet announced exactly the upcoming series will hit screens.
The conclusion of series six drew the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.
However, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a new season is now being produced.