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The beloved police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh installment, announced by the BBC.

An upcoming six-part season created by the show's creator will begin filming in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the network.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."

The last season concluded in recent years with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only came this week.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue working to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case so far."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of abusing his position to act as a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation could be a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the shadows, the teaser suggested.

In a statement, the creator said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor called appearing in the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the program's popularity but the people I've collaborated 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 remarked: "Obviously I'm very happy Line of Duty is back! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the AC-12 return, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."

"Pleased with the announcement and anticipating those unexpected twists and turns."

Show History

The drama launched in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

Broadcasters has not yet announced when the new season will premiere.

The conclusion of series six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for kingpin known as "H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for further series.

However, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.