Line of Duty Series 7 Begins Filming in Belfast with Robert Carlyle Joining Cast
The long-awaited seventh series of Line of Duty has begun filming in Belfast, with the BBC confirming that Robert Carlyle joins the cast as guest lead DC Shaun Massie — a Specialist Rifle Officer and veteran marksman — alongside the returning trio of Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar.
The six-part series, written and created by Jed Mercurio, sees AC-12 disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, with Arnott, Fleming, and Hastings assigned their most sensitive case yet. The production is supported by Northern Ireland Screen, bringing significant economic benefit to the Belfast area.
Key Developments
The central investigation in Series 7 revolves around Detective Inspector Dominic Gough (Tom Weston-Jones), a charismatic officer celebrated for his success against organised crime who is accused of abusing his position as a sexual predator. The team must determine if Gough's case is a diversion from a larger, hidden threat.
Robert Carlyle's character, DC Shaun Massie, works under Gough and sees his detached demeanour change drastically following the accusations against his commanding officer. Carlyle expressed his excitement at joining the cast of one of Britain's most beloved dramas.
Background
Line of Duty last aired in 2021, attracting over 17 million viewers for its Series 6 finale — one of the most-watched television events in UK history. Creator Jed Mercurio expressed gratitude to the show's fans and joked about the need for imagination since "corruption in this country is supposed to have come to an end while Line of Duty was off air."
The series is produced by World Productions, in association with ITV Studios, which handles international distribution. Jed Mercurio will direct episodes 4-6, with Jennie Darnell directing the first three episodes.
Why It Matters
Line of Duty's return is one of the most anticipated events in British television, with millions of fans having waited five years for the continuation of the story. The production's base in Belfast is also a significant boost for Northern Ireland's screen industry, which has grown substantially in recent years.
What's Next
While filming has begun, the BBC has not yet announced a specific air date, stating only that Series 7 will air "next year." Fans can expect the series to premiere in 2027, with the BBC likely to announce a transmission date later in 2026.
Full details available at BBC Media Centre.
