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The beloved crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, announced by the broadcaster.

A brand new six-episode season created by the show's creator will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the production team.

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "How wonderful it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming together soon."

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

New Challenges for The Team

Series seven will open with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, as revealed by production details.

Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to combat misconduct within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most sensitive case to date."

New Character and Intricate Plot

An additional officer, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charismatic officer known for takedowns of criminal networks, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.

However, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio said: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had so many fans track the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a seventh season."

He added: "Misconduct in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity."

Actor Responses

The Scottish actor 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 can't wait to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

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 announcement and anticipating those unexpected plot developments."

Show History

Line of Duty launched in 2012 and evolved into one of the most popular television series of the last decade, featuring guest stars such as Lennie James.

Broadcasters haven't revealed when the new season will premiere.

The finale of season six drew the extended plot about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and producers said at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

Nevertheless, the network announced on this week that a seventh series is now being produced.