The acclaimed police drama Line of Duty is officially returning for its seventh season, announced by the BBC.
An upcoming six-part series written by Jed Mercurio starts production in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.
The actress expressed excitement about the comeback, saying she was "so excited" about the show's renewal. Her co-star added, "How wonderful it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together next year."
The previous series concluded in recent years with a finale that drew in more than 17 million viewers. Rumors about a new season have been circulating ever since, but official word only arrived recently.
Series seven begins with the anti-corruption unit having been disbanded and renamed as the new police oversight body, as revealed by the announcement.
Martin Compston's character, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings remain tasked to tackle corruption within the police force.
The team's mission "faces unprecedented challenges", and under these circumstances, the trio are assigned their "most delicate case to date."
A new character, Det Insp Dominic Gough, described as a charismatic officer known for busts of organized crime, faces allegations of abusing his position to become a sexual predator.
Yet, his case could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still operating in the shadows, the teaser hinted.
Speaking about the renewal, the creator commented: "All cast and crew are deeply thankful to the dedicated viewers."
"We're privileged to have had countless fans watch the developments of the unit over multiple series and we couldn't be more delighted to be returning for a seventh installment."
He added: "Misconduct in this country was thought to be over while Line of Duty was off air, so I've been forced to use my creativity."
Martin Compston called being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".
"Not only the show's success but the people 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 Adrian again. The city, we'll be there shortly!"
Adrian Dunbar commented: "As we count down the unit return, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back filming next year."
"Delighted with the news and anticipating those mercurial twists and turns."
Line of Duty launched in 2012 and became a highly successful TV dramas of the last decade, attracting guest stars such as Stephen Graham.
The BBC haven't revealed when the upcoming series will hit screens.
The finale of series six brought the extended plot about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a conclusion, and producers indicated at the time there were no plans for additional seasons.
Nevertheless, the network confirmed on Tuesday that a new season is now being produced.