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The beloved crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the BBC.

A brand new six-part series created by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.

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

The last series concluded in recent years with a finale that attracted over 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

The seventh season begins with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by the announcement.

Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to combat misconduct within the police force.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case to date."

New Character and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer celebrated for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still active in the background, the teaser hinted.

In a statement, the creator said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"It's an honor to have had countless followers track the ups and downs of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be coming back for a seventh season."

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 creativity."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston 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 dear friends."

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Compston and Adrian again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating 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 news and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."

Series Legacy

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Stephen Graham.

Broadcasters haven't revealed when the new season will hit screens.

The finale of season six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for kingpin known as "H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.

However, the network confirmed on this week that a new season is now being produced.