🔗 Share this article

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

An upcoming six-episode season created by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast in the coming months, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The previous series concluded in 2021 with a final episode that attracted over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

The seventh season will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part remain tasked to tackle misconduct within the police force.

Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned 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 criminal networks, faces allegations of abusing his position to act as a offender.

Yet, his case could be a intentional diversion from a bigger threat still active in the shadows, plot details suggested.

In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."

"We're privileged to have had so many followers track the developments of AC-12 over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

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

"Not only the program's popularity but the colleagues I've collaborated with I now call dear friends."

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

Vicky McClure remarked: "Obviously I'm so excited the show is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the unit days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together next year."

"Delighted with the announcement and looking forward to those unexpected twists and turns."

Show History

Line of Duty premiered in 2012 and evolved into a highly successful television series of the past ten years, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

Broadcasters haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.

The conclusion of series six brought the extended plot about the hunt for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers indicated at the moment there were no plans for additional seasons.

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