The Hit Drama Announced for Seventh Series on BBC

The acclaimed police drama AC-12 is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the BBC.

An upcoming six-episode season created by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Her co-star remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together next year."

The last series wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that attracted more than 17 million audience members. Speculation about a new season have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles 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.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.

Their work "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case to date."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer celebrated for busts of criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.

Yet, his case might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still active in the shadows, the teaser hinted.

Speaking about the renewal, the creator said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had countless followers track the ups and downs of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a new season."

He added: "Corruption in this country is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston described appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".

"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call some of my closest friends."

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is back! Eager to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll see you soon!"

The veteran actor commented: "As we count down the unit days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."

"Pleased with the announcement and anticipating those mercurial plot developments."

Show History

The drama launched in the early 2010s and evolved into one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

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

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