đź”— Share this article The Hit Drama Announced for 7th Series on BBC Martin Compston will return their characters in the acclaimed police drama The beloved crime series AC-12 will make a comeback for its seventh installment, announced by the BBC. A brand new six-episode series written by the show's creator will begin filming in Belfast this spring, as confirmed by the network. Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, stating she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together soon." The last series wrapped up in recent years with a final episode that attracted over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but confirmation only came this week. New Challenges for The Team The seventh season will open with AC-12 having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement. Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to tackle corruption within the law enforcement. Their work "has never been more difficult", and in this climate, the trio will take on their "most delicate case so far." New Character and Intricate Plot An additional officer, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer known for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a sexual predator. Yet, this investigation might serve as a intentional diversion from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser hinted. In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "All cast and crew feels enormous gratitude to the show's fans." "It's an honor to have had countless followers watch the developments of AC-12 over multiple series and we are thrilled to be coming back for a new installment." Mercurio continued: "Misconduct in this country is supposed to have ended while the series was not airing, so I've been compelled to use my creativity." Cast Reactions Martin Compston described appearing in the police drama as "a job of a lifetime". "Not only the show's success but the people I've worked with I now call dear friends." "I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said. The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is back! Eager to work with Jed, Compston and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!" Adrian Dunbar noted: "As we count down the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming soon." "Pleased with the announcement and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns." Show History Line of Duty launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the last decade, attracting notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton. The BBC haven't revealed when the new season will hit screens. The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for kingpin known as "H" to a conclusion, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no plans for further series. However, the corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.