The Hit Drama Confirmed for 7th Series on BBC

Line of Duty cast members
Vicky McClure will return their characters in the acclaimed police drama

The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-part season written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, as confirmed by the production team.

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together soon."

The last season concluded in 2021 with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but official word only came recently.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

Series seven will open with AC-12 no longer existing and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings remain working to tackle misconduct within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

New Character and Complex Case

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of organized crime, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.

However, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, plot details suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh season."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was off air, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

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

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

The veteran actor commented: "As we count down the AC-12 return, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon."

"Pleased with the announcement and anticipating those mercurial plot developments."

Series Legacy

The drama launched in the early 2010s and became a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Stephen Graham.

Broadcasters haven't revealed exactly the new season will hit screens.

The conclusion of season six brought the extended plot about the search for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.

Nevertheless, the corporation confirmed on this week that a new season is now in development.

Ryan Kelley
Ryan Kelley

Environmental journalist with a decade of experience covering climate science and policy, based in Berlin.