The acclaimed thriller Line of Duty is making a comeback, with Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar reprising their iconic roles in a new series set to air on the BBC. Created and written by Jed Mercurio, the seventh series promises to delve deep into the complexities of police corruption, with filming scheduled to commence in Belfast in Spring 2026.
Since its last airing in 2021, Line of Duty has maintained a significant place in television history. The series six finale captivated audiences, becoming the biggest drama episode (excluding soaps) since modern records began in 2002, attracting a staggering 17 million viewers over 28 days. On average, the series drew in 16 million viewers, solidifying its standing as the most-watched drama since 2018.
In this new six-part series, the once-renowned Anti-Corruption Unit AC-12 has been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards. With the challenges of anticorruption work escalating, Steve Arnott (Compston), Kate Fleming (McClure), and Ted Hastings (Dunbar) find themselves embroiled in their most sensitive case to date. The plot revolves around Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, a charismatic figure facing accusations of abusing his authority. However, questions arise as to whether Gough’s case is merely a distraction from a greater threat lurking in the shadows.
Jed Mercurio expressed his gratitude to fans, stating, “Everyone involved in Line of Duty feels enormous gratitude to the show’s fans. We’re privileged to have had so many of you follow the ups and downs of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we couldn’t be more delighted to be returning for a seventh. Corruption in this country is supposed to have come to an end while Line of Duty was off air so I’ve been forced to use my imagination.”
Simon Heath, CEO and creative director of World Productions, echoed this sentiment, saying, “There have been a number of significant reunions in recent years, but few more keenly anticipated than the return of AC-12. It’s a privilege to be back with Jed’s terrific new chapter of the Line of Duty story.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, praised the series, remarking, “Line of Duty is beloved by audiences and critics alike and its amazing ratings are a true testament to the success of Jed’s writing, the work from the brilliant team at World Productions and the entire cast and crew. I’m so pleased that after four long years Line of Duty will be back filming soon and can’t wait for BBC viewers to be back on the edge of their seats.”
The lead actors also expressed their excitement about returning to the beloved series. Martin Compston reflected, “Line of Duty has been a job of a lifetime. Not only in terms of the show’s success but the people I’ve had the opportunity to work with I now call some of my closest friends. I can’t wait to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together.”
Vicky McClure added, “It goes without saying I’m so excited Line of Duty is back! Can’t wait to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we’ll see you soon!” Adrian Dunbar chimed in, “As we count down the AC12 days of Christmas what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together next year. Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns.”
As anticipation builds for the new series, fans can look forward to more gripping storylines and unexpected developments from this critically acclaimed drama. Line of Duty, produced by World Productions and part of ITV Studios, will be directed by Jennie Darnell, with Ken Horn as producer and Jed Mercurio, Simon Heath, and Nick Lambon serving as executive producers. The series is made with support from Northern Ireland Screen, ensuring a local touch to its production.