The Hit Drama Announced for 7th Season on BBC

The acclaimed crime series AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th season, announced by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-episode season written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast this spring, according to the network.

Vicky McClure 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 Three Amigos will be back filming together next year."

The last series wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been circulating ever since, but official word only came recently.

New Challenges for The Team

Series seven will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to tackle misconduct within the police force.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case to date."

New Character and Intricate Plot

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, is accused of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.

Yet, his case could be a intentional diversion from a larger danger still operating in the shadows, plot details suggested.

In a statement, the creator said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had countless followers watch the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a new season."

He added: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while the series was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston called being part of the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

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

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm very happy the show is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "While anticipating the unit return, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."

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

Show History

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and evolved into one of the most popular television series of the last decade, attracting notable actors such as Kelly Macdonald.

The BBC haven't revealed when the new season will premiere.

The finale of season six drew the extended plot about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a new season is now in development.