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The beloved police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th season, confirmed by the broadcaster.

An upcoming six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.

The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The previous season wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that drew in over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been widespread ever since, but official word only arrived recently.

New Challenges for AC-12

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings remain tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."

New Character and Intricate Plot

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to act as a offender.

Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had so many followers track the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston described being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the show's success but the people I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

The veteran actor commented: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."

"Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."

Show History

Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and evolved into a highly successful television series of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

The BBC haven't revealed exactly the new season will hit screens.

The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a conclusion, and the creative team said at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.

However, the network confirmed on Tuesday that a new season is now being produced.