The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Series on the British Broadcaster

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

An upcoming six-episode series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the production team.

The actress expressed excitement about the return, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The previous series concluded in recent years with a finale that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been circulating for some time, but confirmation only came recently.

New Challenges for AC-12

Series seven will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to tackle misconduct within the police force.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most delicate case so far."

New Character and Complex Case

A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to act as a sexual predator.

However, his case might serve as a intentional diversion from a larger danger still operating in the shadows, the teaser suggested.

Speaking about the renewal, Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a new installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston called appearing in the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the program's popularity 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 remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is back! Can't wait to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

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

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

Series Legacy

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

The BBC haven't revealed exactly the upcoming series will premiere.

The finale of series six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and the creative team said at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

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