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

A brand new six-episode season created by the show's creator starts production in Belfast this spring, according to the production team.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, stating she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together soon."

The last season concluded in recent years with a final episode that drew in more than 17 million audience members. Rumors about a new season have been widespread ever since, but confirmation only arrived this week.

New Challenges for The Team

Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to production details.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to combat corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, the trio 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 organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to act as a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows, plot details suggested.

In a statement, the creator said: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the show's fans."

"We're privileged to have had so many followers watch the developments of the unit over six previous seasons and we couldn't be more delighted to be coming back for a new installment."

Mercurio continued: "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."

Actor Responses

The Scottish actor called being part of the police drama as "the role of a career".

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

"I'm excited to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together," he said.

The Nottingham-born actress remarked: "Obviously I'm very happy the show is returning! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Adrian again. The city, we'll see you soon!"

Adrian Dunbar noted: "While anticipating the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the Three Amigos will be working together soon."

"Pleased with the news and looking forward to those unexpected plot developments."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in the early 2010s and evolved into a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

The BBC haven't revealed when the new season will premiere.

The conclusion of season six drew the long-running storyline about the hunt for criminal mastermind known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team indicated at the time there were no intentions for additional seasons.

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