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The beloved police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh installment, announced by the BBC.

An upcoming six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."

The previous season concluded in recent years with a final episode that drew in over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been circulating for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by the announcement.

Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue working to tackle misconduct within the police force.

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

New Character and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, is accused of abusing his position to act as a offender.

However, his case might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

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

He added: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston described being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".

"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."

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

Series Legacy

Line of Duty premiered in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.

Broadcasters haven't revealed when the upcoming series will premiere.

The finale of series six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.