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

An upcoming six-episode series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast in the coming months, according to the network.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together soon."

The last series concluded in 2021 with a final episode that drew in over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been circulating for some time, but official word only arrived recently.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season begins with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat misconduct within the police force.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case to date."

New Character and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of organized crime, is accused of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.

However, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the background, plot details hinted.

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

"It's an honor to have had countless fans watch the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in this country is supposed to have ended 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 "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Can't wait 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 unit return, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together soon."

"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."

Show History

Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and evolved into one of the most popular television series of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters haven't revealed exactly the new season will premiere.

The conclusion of series six drew the long-running storyline about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers indicated at the moment there were no plans for further series.

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.