🔗 Share this article Line of Duty Announced for Seventh Season on BBC Martin Compston are set to reprise their roles in the popular crime series The acclaimed crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the BBC. An upcoming six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast this spring, according to the network. Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon." The last season concluded in 2021 with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only arrived this week. New Challenges for AC-12 The seventh season will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement. Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to tackle corruption within the police force. Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case so far." New Character and Intricate Plot A new character, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator. Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, the teaser suggested. Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers." "We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the developments of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh season." Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination." Cast Reactions Martin Compston described appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime". "Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends." "I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he added. The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is back! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!" The veteran actor commented: "While anticipating the unit return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year." "Delighted with the news and anticipating those mercurial plot developments." Series Legacy The drama launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Kelly Macdonald. Broadcasters has not yet announced when the new season will premiere. The finale of series six drew the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons. Nevertheless, the corporation announced on this week that a seventh series is now in development.