The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Series on BBC
The beloved police drama AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.
A brand new six-episode series written by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland in the coming months, according to the network.
The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together next year."
The previous season concluded in recent years with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but official word only arrived this week.
New Challenges for The Team
The seventh season will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.
Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.
The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case so far."
New Character and Complex Case
A new character, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.
Yet, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, plot details suggested.
In a statement, the creator said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the show's fans."
"It's an honor to have had countless fans watch the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh season."
Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."
Actor Responses
The Scottish actor described being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Not only the program's popularity but the people I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and get the team back together," he added.
The Nottingham-born actress stated: "It goes without saying 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 commented: "While anticipating the AC-12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming soon."
"Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."
Series Legacy
The drama launched in 2012 and became one of the most popular television series of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Kelly Macdonald.
The BBC has not yet announced when the new season will premiere.
The finale of series six brought the long-running storyline about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.
However, the network confirmed on this week that a seventh series is now in development.