'Line Of Duty' Back For Fifth Series

BBC drama Line Of Duty has been commissioned for a fifth season, it has been confirmed. In addition, the show will move to BBC One for its fourth series, which is due to air in 2017.

The series first launched on BBC Two in 2012. It is written and created by Jed Mercurio, and produced by World Productions.

Charlotte Moore, BBC Controller of TV Channels and iPlayer, said: "Line of Duty is original, bold, gripping drama that gets the nation talking and the time is right to bring the series to an even broader audience on BBC One. Jed Mecurio's explosive thriller will find a new home on BBC One for two more series and create room for new drama to flourish on BBC Two. Thanks to Jed, Simon Heath's World Productions, and Stephen Wright at the BBC for producing the record-breaking show."

Jed Mercurio added: "We've been overwhelmed by the extremely flattering response to series three. Much of the credit should go to our brilliant cast and crew and to Simon Heath and Priscilla Parish at World Productions. We're deeply grateful for the unstinting support we receive from Charlotte Moore, Stephen Wright and the whole BBC team. It's an immense privilege to be able to reward Line Of Duty fans with two more series on BBC One."

Simon Heath, World Productions, commented: "We couldn't have asked for a better response to series three, and it's testament to Jed's brilliant writing, and a fantastic cast, that the BBC have handed us two further series on BBC One. A big thank you to Charlotte Moore, Stephen Wright and all in the BBC team who have supported and nurtured the show over the last five years."

Stephen Wright, BBC Executive Producer, said: "It has been a privilege to be associated with this show and Jed Mercurio's bold and brilliant writing. Credit goes to the cast, production teams and colleagues in the BBC who have worked on all three series. I am delighted that we have the opportunity to continue to thrill and provoke audiences."

www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre

(JP)