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The beloved crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th season, announced by the BBC.

A brand new six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."

The last season concluded in recent years with a finale that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to production details.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most delicate case so far."

New Character and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, is accused of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had so many fans watch the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor called appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".

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

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the AC-12 return, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon."

"Delighted with the announcement and anticipating those unexpected twists and turns."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

The BBC has not yet announced exactly the upcoming series will premiere.

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

However, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.