When is the new Line of Duty series expected to be released?

The new six-part series of Line of Duty could be on screens by the tail end of 2026.

What condition did Martin Compston set for Line of Duty filming?

Martin Compston will not allow filming to clash with Scotland's World Cup matches.

Who is the new villain in the next Line of Duty series?

The new series will introduce sexual predator DI Dominic Gough as the villain.

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Martin Compston's World Cup Demand for Line of Duty

11 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Martin Compston demands filming avoid Scotland's World Cup games.
Filming for the new series is expected to start next spring.
The new series will feature a new villain, DI Dominic Gough.

Martin Compston's World Cup Demand for Line of Duty

Martin Compston, known for his role as DS Steve Arnott in the popular BBC drama Line of Duty, has shared his non-negotiable condition for the show's anticipated seventh series. He has explicitly told show bosses that filming must not conflict with Scotland's football team playing in the World Cup. Compston, a passionate football fan, emphasized his long wait to see his country compete on the global stage and vowed not to miss it, even stating he would accept being written out of the show if necessary.

The Scottish actor also commented on the hiatus between series, suggesting that a period of distance is beneficial. This break allows writer Jed Mercurio time to craft compelling storylines, ensuring the beloved procedural returns with a strong narrative. Compston described the scripts for the new series as brilliant, sparking significant excitement among the cast to get back to filming.