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

An upcoming six-part series written by the show's creator will begin filming in Belfast this spring, according to the production team.

The actress 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 back filming together next year."

The last series concluded in 2021 with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only arrived recently.

New Challenges for The Team

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

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to tackle misconduct within the police force.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case to date."

Fresh Face and Complex Case

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.

However, this investigation could be a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the shadows, plot details suggested.

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

"We're privileged to have had so many followers track the ups and downs of the unit 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 off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Actor Responses

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

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

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is back! Eager to work with Jed, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the unit return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."

"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected plot developments."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

Broadcasters has not yet announced when the upcoming series will hit screens.

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

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.