The beloved police drama AC-12 will make a comeback for its 7th installment, confirmed by the broadcaster.
An upcoming six-episode series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Northern Ireland this spring, as confirmed by the network.
The actress shared her enthusiasm about the comeback, stating she was "thrilled" about the series' return. Her co-star added, "What a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be reuniting together next year."
The previous series wrapped up in recent years with a finale that drew in over 17 million audience members. Speculation about a potential return have been circulating ever since, but official word only arrived this week.
Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and rebranded as the new police oversight body, according to the announcement.
Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Adrian Dunbar's part continue working to tackle corruption within the police force.
Their work "faces unprecedented challenges", and in this climate, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case so far."
A new character, DI Dominic Gough, portrayed as a charming officer celebrated for busts of criminal networks, is accused of misusing his authority to become a sexual predator.
However, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the background, the teaser hinted.
In a statement, Jed Mercurio commented: "Everyone involved are deeply thankful to the show's fans."
"It's an honor to have had so many fans track the ups and downs of AC-12 over multiple series and we are thrilled to be coming back for a seventh season."
He added: "Misconduct in the UK was thought to be over while Line of Duty was not airing, so I've been forced to use my imagination."
Martin Compston called appearing in the police drama as "the role of a career".
"Beyond the program's popularity but the colleagues I've worked with I now call some of my closest friends."
"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.
The Nottingham-born actress stated: "Obviously I'm so excited Line of Duty is back! Can't wait to work with the creator, Compston and Dunbar again. The city, we'll see you soon!"
The veteran actor noted: "While anticipating the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial plot developments."
The drama premiered in 2012 and became one of the most popular TV dramas of the past ten years, featuring guest stars such as Lennie James.
Broadcasters haven't revealed when the upcoming series will premiere.
The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for criminal mastermind known as "H" to a close, and the creative team said at the time there were no intentions for further series.
Nevertheless, the corporation announced on Tuesday that a seventh series is now in development.
