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

A brand new six-episode series created by the show's creator starts production in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the production team.

The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Her co-star remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The previous series concluded in recent years with a final episode that drew in over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been circulating ever since, but official word only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to tackle misconduct within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

Fresh Face and Complex Case

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of organized crime, is accused of abusing his position to act as a offender.

However, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the ups and downs of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh installment."

He added: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

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

"Not only the show's success but the people I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is back! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

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 next year."

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

Series Legacy

Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

The finale of series six brought the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.

Nevertheless, the corporation announced on this week that a new season is now in development.