The uproar following the conclusion of Line of Duty’s sixth season still echoes among dedicated fans. The revelation of “H,” the elusive corrupt officer at the heart of the series, landed with a thud, leaving many deeply unsatisfied and questioning the narrative’s direction.
For seasons, the hunt for the fourth and final “H” consumed viewers, fueling countless theories and intense speculation. When the identity was finally unveiled as the seemingly unremarkable Ian Buckells, a wave of disbelief washed over the fanbase. Was it a genuine twist, or a deliberate misdirection?
The dissatisfaction was palpable, prompting calls for a resolution that truly honored the intricate web of deceit woven throughout the show’s history. Now, it appears creator Jed Mercurio has heard those pleas. A return to the “H” storyline is reportedly on the cards for the highly anticipated seventh season.
Insiders reveal the backlash to the season six finale directly influenced the decision to commission a seventh outing. Mercurio intends to address the lingering questions and deliver the closure fans crave, while simultaneously introducing a compelling new antagonist to challenge AC-12.
The new season will see the return of AC-12, now rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, facing a complex case involving Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, accused of predatory behavior. But beneath the surface, a deeper conspiracy may be brewing, potentially linked to the unresolved mysteries of “H.”
Steve Arnott and Kate Fleming, seasoned investigators, will find themselves seeking guidance from their former superintendent, the ever-vigilant Ted Hastings, as they navigate this sensitive investigation. The dynamic between these core characters promises to be a cornerstone of the new season.
Mercurio himself acknowledges the challenge of crafting a compelling narrative in a world supposedly free of the corruption Line of Duty previously exposed. He’s been forced to rely on his imagination, hinting at a storyline that will push the boundaries of the series’ established themes.
Early script readings have already generated excitement among the cast. Martin Compston, who plays Steve Arnott, describes the first three episodes as “brilliant, proper page turners,” emphasizing the thrilling direction the story is taking. The anticipation is building for a reunion with his co-stars and a return to the gripping world of AC-12.
Fan theories are already circulating, ranging from explorations of toxic masculinity within the police force to the possibility of Ted Hastings himself being a key figure in the ongoing corruption. The desire for a satisfying resolution to the “H” storyline remains a dominant theme among viewers.
The question now isn’t just *who* is corrupt, but *how* deep the rot goes. With a new case, familiar faces, and the promise of unraveling the mysteries of the past, Line of Duty’s seventh season is poised to deliver a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
