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The acclaimed crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh installment, announced by the BBC.

A brand new six-episode series written by the show's creator starts production in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the network.

The actress expressed excitement about the return, stating she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together next year."

The previous season concluded in recent years with a finale that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been widespread ever since, but official word only arrived this week.

New Challenges for AC-12

The seventh season will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and renamed 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, these officers will take on their "most sensitive case so far."

New Character and Complex Case

An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of organized crime, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

However, his case might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.

In a statement, the creator said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans."

"It's an honor to have had so many fans track the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."

He added: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my imagination."

Actor Responses

Martin Compston described being part of the series as "the role of a career".

"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is returning! Eager to work with Jed, Martin and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the AC-12 return, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."

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

Show History

The drama launched in the early 2010s and became a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters haven't revealed exactly the new season will hit screens.

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

Nevertheless, the corporation confirmed on this week that a new season is now being produced.