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The beloved police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th installment, announced by the BBC.

An upcoming six-episode series written by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.

The actress expressed excitement about the return, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together soon."

The last series wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only arrived recently.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

Series seven will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by production details.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most delicate case so far."

New Character and Complex Case

A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a offender.

Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the shadows, the teaser suggested.

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

"We're privileged to have had so many fans track the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh season."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while the series was off air, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

The Scottish actor 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 some of my closest friends."

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

Vicky McClure stated: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Compston and Adrian again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together soon."

"Delighted with the announcement and anticipating those mercurial plot developments."

Show History

Line of Duty premiered in the early 2010s and became a highly successful television series of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

The conclusion of series six brought the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the moment there were no intentions for further series.

Nevertheless, the network confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.