The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Series on the British Broadcaster
The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the BBC.
A brand new six-part series written by Jed Mercurio will begin filming in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the network.
Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together next year."
The previous series concluded in recent years with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only came this week.
New Challenges for AC-12
Series seven will open with AC-12 no longer existing and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.
Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to tackle corruption within the police force.
Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."
New Character and Intricate Plot
An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to act as a offender.
Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the background, plot details suggested.
Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had so many fans watch the developments of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a new season."
He added: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my imagination."
Cast Reactions
Martin Compston called appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I can't wait to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he said.
Vicky McClure stated: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"
Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon."
"Pleased with the announcement and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."
Series Legacy
The drama launched in the early 2010s and became a highly successful television series of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Lennie James.
The BBC has not yet announced when the upcoming series will premiere.
The finale of season six brought the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team said at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.
However, the network confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.