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

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

Vicky McClure shared her enthusiasm about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be back filming together next year."

The last season concluded in recent years with a finale that attracted more than 17 million viewers. Speculation about a new season have been widespread for some time, but confirmation only arrived this week.

Fresh Obstacles for AC-12

The seventh season begins with the anti-corruption unit no longer existing and rebranded as the new police oversight body, as revealed by production details.

Steve Arnott, Vicky McClure's role, and Ted Hastings continue working to tackle 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 Complex Case

A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for takedowns of organized crime, faces allegations of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.

Yet, this investigation might serve as a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the background, the teaser suggested.

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

"We're privileged to have had countless fans track the developments of AC-12 over six previous seasons and we are thrilled to be returning for a seventh installment."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK was thought to be over while the series was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."

Cast Reactions

The Scottish actor described being part of the police drama as "a job of a lifetime".

"Beyond the show's success but the people I've collaborated 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.

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

Adrian Dunbar noted: "As we count down the unit days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the central trio will be back filming soon."

"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."

Series Legacy

The drama premiered in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, attracting guest stars such as Thandiwe Newton.

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

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

However, the network announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now being produced.