The acclaimed BBC police drama Line of Duty is making a highly anticipated comeback for its seventh series, bringing back stars Adrian Dunbar, Vicky McClure, and Martin Compston. In a major development, a significant plot spoiler has been revealed, indicating that the iconic villain 'H' will return in a huge twist, revisiting one of the show's most mysterious storylines.
Series Seven Details and Cast Returns
Line of Duty, which concluded four years ago, is set to return with its seventh instalment, featuring the original core cast members reprising their roles. Adrian Dunbar, Vicky McClure, and Martin Compston will all be back, continuing the saga of the police anti-corruption unit, now rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards after AC-12 was disbanded.
The 'H' Storyline Revisited
In a shocking turn of events, sources have confirmed that the seventh series will revisit the 'H' storyline, which previously ended with the unmasking of bumbling detective Ian Buckells as the mysterious 'H'. This revelation left many fans disappointed, leading to calls for the show to continue and address the unresolved tensions.
According to insiders, the decision to bring back the 'H' plot was influenced by fan reactions to the series six finale. A source told The Sun, "There was genuine anger about the way series six ended, and that was part of the reason a seventh outing was ordered. Devotees will be thrilled to hear Jed will be giving them just what they want."
New Villains and Intertwined Plots
While the 'H' storyline returns, the new series will also introduce a fresh villain, as has been the tradition with each season since the show's inception. However, this time, the incoming antagonist's narrative is expected to be intricately linked with the 'H' plot, creating a sensational double-whammy for viewers.
The plot will focus on Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, a charismatic officer praised for his successes in tackling organised crime, who is accused of abusing his position as a sexual predator. The team must determine whether Gough's case is a genuine investigation or a deliberate distraction from a larger threat.
Creator and Cast Reactions
Creator Jed Mercurio expressed his gratitude to the 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." He added humorously, "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."
Martin Compston, who plays Steve Arnott, shared his excitement, saying, "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 concluded, "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."
The return of Line of Duty promises to deliver the same intense, twist-filled narratives that have made it a fan favourite, with the added intrigue of revisiting past mysteries while introducing new challenges for the characters.
