After months of speculation and years of fan anticipation, the BBC has officially confirmed Line of Duty Season 7. The acclaimed crime thriller will reunite Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar for what promises to be the most gripping chapter yet. The six-part series will begin filming in Belfast in Spring 2026 and marks the return of Jed Mercurio’s creative direction after a four-year hiatus since the show last aired in 2021.
With AC-12 now disbanded and a high-profile officer under scrutiny, the series is set to expand its legacy as one of Britain’s most talked-about dramas.
Key Takeaways: Line of Duty Season 7 – Cast, Storyline and Production Insights
- Season 7 officially greenlit after a five-year break, filming begins Spring 2026
- AC-12 has been dissolved and replaced by the Inspectorate of Police Standards
- Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar return as Arnott, Fleming and Hastings
- New case focuses on DI Dominic Gough, accused of abusing his position
- Suspicion grows that Gough’s case hides a deeper, more dangerous threat
- Directed by Jennie Darnell, produced by Ken Horn, written by Jed Mercurio
- Season 6 finale remains the UK’s biggest drama episode since 2002, with 17 million viewers
- Additional cast announcements coming soon
AC-12 Disbanded: A New Direction for Season 7
In one of the most dramatic updates to the series so far, Season 7 begins with the disbanding of AC-12, the renowned anti-corruption unit that served as the show’s epicentre for over a decade. It has now been restructured into the Inspectorate of Police Standards, reflecting a tougher political and institutional climate for corruption investigations.
This shift serves as the backdrop for the reunion of Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming and Ted Hastings — the trio whose moral conflicts, professional tensions and fierce dedication helped shape the global appeal of Line of Duty. Their return in a rebranded policing environment immediately raises the stakes, setting the tone for a narrative rich in pressure, oversight battles and hidden agendas.
The Case of DI Dominic Gough: A Threat in the Shadows
At the heart of Season 7 lies a highly sensitive investigation.
Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, a celebrated officer praised for major takedowns of organised crime, faces accusations of exploiting his authority to act as a sexual predator. The allegations are serious, reputation-destroying and politically charged.
But the official synopsis hints at a larger conspiracy:
Is Gough truly the core problem, or is his case a deliberate distraction orchestrated to shield someone more dangerous?
This dynamic taps into the show’s signature strengths — institutional secrecy, power struggles, political interference and moral ambiguity. It sets the stage for a multilayered storyline where every revelation threatens to uncover something darker.
Cast Reactions: The Trio’s Emotional Return
The returning leads have spoken passionately about stepping back into their roles.
Martin Compston (Steve Arnott)
Described Line of Duty as “a job of a lifetime,” highlighting not just its success but the lifelong friendships built through the series. He expressed eagerness to “pull the waistcoat on again.”
Vicky McClure (Kate Fleming)
Shared her excitement: “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 (Ted Hastings)
Celebrated the news with characteristic enthusiasm, calling the trio “the Three Amigos” and looking forward to the “mercurial twists and turns” ahead.
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Their statements underline not just personal enthusiasm but the weight of the show’s return for both cast and fans.
Jed Mercurio, Creative Team and Production Details
Jed Mercurio returns as writer, creator and executive producer, continuing his long-standing involvement in the series.
He is joined by:
- Jennie Darnell as director
- Ken Horn as producer
- Simon Heath (World Productions) and Nick Lambon (BBC) as executive producers
- World Productions, part of ITV Studios, overseeing all production
- Northern Ireland Screen, providing key support
- ITV Studios, handling international distribution
Mercurio thanked fans openly, acknowledging their commitment over the show’s six seasons: “We’re privileged to have had so many of you follow the ups and downs of AC-12… we couldn’t be more delighted to be returning for a seventh.”
Record-Breaking Legacy and Global Reach
Season 6 remains a milestone in UK television history. The finale became the most-watched British drama episode (excluding soaps) since 2002, pulling in 17 million viewers after 28 days. The season averaged around 16 million viewers, marking it the biggest drama across the market since 2018.
The show’s rise from BBC Two in 2012 to BBC One in 2016 reflects its meteoric success. International audiences have followed the series through platforms such as BritBox, Hulu, Acorn TV, and previously on Netflix, boosting its global footprint.
Why Line of Duty’s Return Matters Now
The return of Line of Duty signals one of the most significant television comebacks in recent years. With AC-12 dismantled and the policing landscape reshaped, Season 7 enters bold new territory while retaining the show’s core identity — intense investigations, high-risk cases and hidden criminal networks. The reunion of Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar restores the chemistry that made the series a cultural phenomenon.
Backed by Jed Mercurio’s writing and World Productions’ direction, the new season promises gripping drama, political tension and revelations that could redefine the show’s legacy for a new era.
FAQs on Line of Duty Season 7
1. When will Line of Duty Season 7 start filming?
Filming for Line of Duty Season 7 will begin in Belfast in Spring 2026, as officially confirmed by the BBC and World Productions.
2. Who is returning to the cast in Season 7?
Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar return as Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming and Ted Hastings.
3. What is the storyline of Line of Duty Season 7?
Season 7 follows the disbanding of AC-12 and investigates DI Dominic Gough, accused of abusing his position amid a larger hidden threat.
4. Who is creating and directing Season 7?
Jed Mercurio returns as writer and executive producer, with Jennie Darnell directing and Ken Horn producing the six-part series.
5. Why is Line of Duty Season 7 highly anticipated?
Its Season 6 finale drew 17 million viewers, making Season 7’s return—after four years—one of BBC’s biggest and most awaited comebacks.
