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The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh installment, announced by the BBC.

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

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."

The previous series concluded in 2021 with a finale that drew in over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but official word only came this week.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

The seventh season will open with AC-12 no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue working to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

New Character and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

However, his case could be a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the background, plot details hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had so many fans track the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be coming back for a new season."

He added: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while the series was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor described being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".

"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "Obviously I'm very happy Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."

"Pleased with the news and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Stephen Graham.

The BBC haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.

The finale of series six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for further series.

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.