First Look: BBC’s Hit Detective Series Returns with Anna Maxwell Martin and New Cast
The BBC has unveiled a first look at the second series of Ludwig. The show returns with David Mitchell back as John “Ludwig” Taylor. Anna Maxwell Martin again plays his sister-in-law, Lucy.
Premise for season two
The new run picks up after season one’s finale. John now works as a Crime Scene Consultant for the Cambridge Police Authority. He partners with DCI Russell Carter, played by Dipo Ola, to tackle fresh investigations.
John’s identical brother remains missing. As an official employee, John cannot use police resources to search for him. Both John and Lucy remain intent on finding answers. The BBC teases that one deception has ended, and another one is beginning.
Cast and characters
- David Mitchell — John “Ludwig” Taylor, Crime Scene Consultant.
- Anna Maxwell Martin — Lucy, John’s sister-in-law.
- Dipo Ola — DCI Russell Carter.
- Dylan Hughes — Henry Betts-Taylor.
- Dorothy Atkinson — DCS Carol Shaw.
- Ralph Ineson — Chief Constable Ziegler.
- Karl Pilkington — DI Matt Neville.
- Mark Bonnar — Gareth Fisher, a newspaper editor.
- Sian Clifford — a local Member of Parliament.
- Ben Ashenden — new police-team character.
- Rumi Sutton — new police-team character.
Notable new additions
Mark Bonnar joins the cast as Gareth Fisher. His credits include Line of Duty and Dept. Q. He was also a contestant on the BBC’s first UK Celebrity Traitors.
Sian Clifford appears as a local MP. Ben Ashenden and Rumi Sutton play new members of the police team. David Mitchell has praised those additions for their comic chemistry and strong dynamic.
Background and reception
Ludwig premiered in September 2024. It became the BBC’s biggest scripted title that year. It was also the strongest comedy launch since at least 2018.
The series drew over 9.5 million viewers within 28 days, according to the broadcaster. Ludwig is available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Production on season two is now underway.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments. Look out for further images and release details as they arrive.
