Speculation surrounding the highly anticipated seventh series of BBC police drama Line of Duty has reached fever pitch following a recent reunion of the show's central cast members.
Cast Reunion Sparks Production Rumours
The show's main stars - Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar - recently gathered for an informal winter beverage, sending fans into a frenzy of excitement about the programme's potential return.
Compston, who portrays DS Steven Arnott, shared a photograph of the trio holding their drinks on social media with the caption: "AC12 in the house (pub)." This simple post immediately triggered widespread speculation among the show's dedicated fanbase.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The social media post prompted an immediate and enthusiastic response from viewers, with comments flooding in expressing hope that filming might already be underway.
One enthusiastic fan questioned: "Does this mean there will be more seasons of line of duty?" while another declared: "This is absolutely excellent news!"
A third comment reflected the anticipation many viewers feel: "Can't wait for you all to come back in line of duty please get started so we can have something to look forward to."
Official Production Details and Cast Comments
Whilst production for the new series is officially scheduled to commence this spring in Belfast, this unexpected reunion has fuelled rumours that filming could begin sooner than previously announced.
The forthcoming series, written by creator Jed Mercurio, will reportedly open with Central Police's anti-corruption division being dissolved and reformed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards.
A new villain - sexual predator DI Dominic Gough - is expected to appear, though casting for this role remains unconfirmed at this stage.
Cast Members Express Excitement
Adrian Dunbar, who plays Superintendent Ted Hastings, warmly welcomed the announcement of the show's return, stating: "As we count down the AC12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back on set together next year. Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns."
Martin Compston expressed similar enthusiasm: "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, famous for her portrayal of DC Kate Fleming, 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!"
Historical Success and Future Expectations
The sixth series of Line of Duty concluded in 2021, with its final episode becoming the most-watched drama finale (excluding soap operas) since contemporary records began in 2002.
Including catch-up viewing figures, the finale attracted more than 17 million viewers within 28 days of broadcast. The BBC will undoubtedly be hoping for comparable viewing figures when the show makes its long-awaited return to screens.
The reunion of the central cast members has provided the strongest indication yet that production is moving forward, though official confirmation about filming schedules and broadcast dates remains pending from the BBC.
