🔗 Share this article

The beloved crime series AC-12 is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the broadcaster.

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

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar added, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."

The last series wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that attracted over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating for some time, but official word only came this week.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

Series seven will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to tackle corruption within the police force.

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers will take on their "most delicate case to date."

New Character and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for busts of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the shadows, plot details suggested.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"It's an honor to have had so many followers watch the ups and downs of the unit over multiple series and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh installment."

He added: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

The Scottish actor described appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".

"Not only the show's success but the colleagues 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 added.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm very happy Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "While anticipating the AC-12 return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together soon."

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

Show History

The drama premiered in the early 2010s and became a highly successful TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Stephen Graham.

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

The conclusion of season six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers said at the time there were no intentions for further series.

Nevertheless, the network announced on Tuesday that a new season is now being produced.