In a major boost for the BBC, the critically acclaimed police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for a seventh series. The announcement confirms the comeback of the hit show, which many fans feared might never happen after a lengthy hiatus.
The sixth series of creator Jed Mercurio's corrupt cop thriller was a record-breaking phenomenon, becoming the top-rated TV drama since modern records began in 2002. It attracted an average of 16 million viewers, with a massive 17 million tuning in for the finale over 28 days.
The beloved central trio will all reprise their roles, with filming scheduled to begin in Belfast next spring. Martin Compston returns as Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure as Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar as Ted Hastings in a six-part series that promises their most sensitive case yet.
The New Case and AC-12's Fate
The new series finds the anti-corruption unit AC-12 in a dramatically different state. The unit has been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards. The dream team is assigned to investigate Det Insp Dominic Gough, a charismatic officer known for takedowns of organised crime who stands accused of being a sexual predator.
This central mystery will question whether Gough is genuinely guilty or if his case is merely a distraction from a more significant threat. As Ted Hastings would say, they're only interested in one thing: catching bent coppers.
What Viewers Want from the Comeback
After nearly five years off-air, expectations are high for Line of Duty to reclaim its crown as television's greatest cop show. Here are the key elements fans are demanding for the revival.
A Compelling Antagonist: The show needs a complex villain worthy of AC-12's attention. Previous series featured top-tier talent like Lennie James, Keeley Hawes, and Stephen Graham. For the role of DI Gough, casting should aim high with possibilities including Matthew Macfadyen, Paapa Essiedu, or Andrew Scott.
No More Disappointing Reveals: The series six finale was widely criticised for unmasking the mediocre DSI Ian Buckells as the mysterious "H." The new series has an opportunity to retrofit this anticlimax as a red herring, with the real supervillain still operating in the shadows.
Signature Interrogation Scenes: Line of Duty became famous for its tense, extended interview sequences—claustrophobic cat-and-mouse confrontations that often lasted up to 20 minutes. These riveting mini-plays, shot in single takes, must remain a cornerstone of the new series.
Simplified Storytelling: The last two series became overly complicated with interwoven plots and extensive lore. A return to a focused, knotty main case with one overarching storyline would help recapture the show's earlier magic.
Realistic Action Sequences: While high-octane set pieces provide adrenaline, they should remain plausible. Memorable moments like Vicky McClure clinging to a lorry sometimes stretched credibility, but well-executed raids and hijackings remain essential viewing.
Essential Elements for Success
Maintain Character Consistency: Steve Arnott's waistcoats, Kate Fleming's well-timed swearing, and Ted Hastings' Ulster-isms like "wee donkey" are beloved constants that must continue. These character traits have become integral to the show's identity.
Be Willing to Kill Characters: Not since Game of Thrones has a drama been so ruthless with its cast. Shock deaths, like those of Jessica Raine and Daniel Mays in their debut episodes, raise stakes and keep viewers guessing about character safety.
Carmichael's Comeback: Anna Maxwell Martin's viral portrayal of the insufferable DCS Patricia Carmichael deserves a return. Now that she's succeeded in disbanding AC-12, viewers would relish seeing her gloat before potentially receiving her comeuppance.
Weekly Release Schedule: The BBC should resist releasing the entire series as an iPlayer box set. The weekly format builds suspense, fuels fan theories, and creates a communal viewing experience that made the show event television.
Shorter Gaps Between Series: If the new series airs in late 2026 or early 2027 as predicted, it will represent an almost six-year gap. Such lengthy waits risk losing momentum and testing audience patience for future instalments.
As Jed Mercurio wryly noted in the announcement: "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." With the right approach, this revival could restore Line of Duty to its former glory and deliver the satisfying comeback millions of fans have been awaiting.
