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

A brand new six-part series created by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the production team.

The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Her co-star remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together next year."

The last series wrapped up in 2021 with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but official word only came this week.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue working to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

New Character and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still active in the background, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the developments of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a new season."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston described being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the program's popularity but the people I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."

"Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."

Series Legacy

Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Stephen Graham.

The BBC has not yet announced when the upcoming series will premiere.

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

However, the corporation confirmed on this week that a seventh series is now in development.