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The acclaimed crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, announced by the BBC.

An upcoming six-part series created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast this spring, according to the production team.

The actress shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together soon."

The last season wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that attracted over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only came recently.

New Challenges for AC-12

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

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

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, these officers are assigned their "most delicate case to date."

New Character and Intricate Plot

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

However, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, plot details hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh installment."

He added: "Misconduct in this country 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 called appearing in the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm very happy Line of Duty is back! Eager to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."

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

Show History

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

The BBC has not yet announced exactly the new season will hit screens.

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

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