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The beloved police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the BBC.

An upcoming six-part series written by the show's creator starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, as confirmed by the network.

The actress shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the series' return. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together soon."

The last series wrapped up in 2021 with a finale that drew in over 17 million viewers. Speculation about a potential return have been widespread ever since, but official word only arrived recently.

Fresh Obstacles for The Team

Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.

Martin Compston's character, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to combat corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, these officers are assigned their "most sensitive case to date."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

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

However, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the background, plot details hinted.

In a statement, the creator commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we are thrilled to be coming back for a new season."

He added: "Misconduct in the UK is supposed to have ended while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor called appearing in the series as "the role of a career".

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

"I can't wait to pull the waistcoat on again and reunite with everyone," he added.

Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited the show is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"

The veteran actor commented: "As we count down the AC-12 return, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be working together next year."

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

Series Legacy

The drama launched in 2012 and evolved into one of the most popular television series of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers said at the moment there were no plans for further series.

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