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The beloved police drama Line of Duty will make a comeback for its seventh installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-episode season written by the show's creator will begin filming in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the network.

Vicky McClure 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 season concluded in recent years with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but official word only arrived recently.

New Challenges for AC-12

The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to production details.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue tasked to tackle misconduct within the law enforcement.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most sensitive case so far."

Fresh Face and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.

Yet, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"It's an honor to have had so many fans track the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh season."

He added: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was off air, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor described being part of the series as "the role of a career".

"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've worked with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "As we count down the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon."

"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns."

Show History

The drama premiered in 2012 and evolved into a highly successful television series of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

The finale of series six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and producers indicated at the moment there were no intentions for additional seasons.

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