Missed Call cast: Who stars alongside Joanna Scanlan?
The cast of the 5 thriller has some very familiar faces.
Get ready to clear your schedules this week as 5 thriller Missed Call continues to air nightly. With the series having premiered last night, we were quickly thrown into things as Sarah (Joanna Scanlan) was left reeling when she couldn't get into contact with her daughter Katie (Emily Coates). With Katie staying in Saint Michel for a school trip, Sarah was left at a loss at what to do after receiving a missed call from her daughter late one night. Flying to France for answers, Sarah is met with evasiveness and reluctance to answer questions – but will she be able to find Katie? Series star Scanlan has already warned that things don't even "end well", telling Radio Times: "I won't even say it ends well. It's not a guarantee that we're going to run through this and have the answer we want at the end of it. "It's multi-layered and what happens in that village when Sarah arrives and starts, you know, kicking the hornets nest is that it all sorts of really nasty, nasty things emerge. And it's much darker, actually, than you might anticipate from the start of the story.” But who's who in the cast? Read on to find out more about the stars of 5's Missed Call. Missed Call cast: Who stars alongside Joanna Scanlan? The full cast list for Missed Call is as follows. Scroll on to find out more about the characters and where you may have seen the actors previously. Joanna Scanlan as Sarah Gleason Claire Keim as Virginie Taylor François-Xavier Demaison as Jerome Ricard Rupert Graves as Jason Bradley Robert Lindsay as Andrew Taylor Emily Coates as Katie Gleason Lise Laffont as Audrey Lambert Dean Fagan as Neil Scott Lya Lessert as Emma Morvan Xavier Lemaitre as Serge Henin Célia Diane as Caroline Morvan Hélène Azema as Yvette Henin Cole Martin as Ben Nicolas Van Beveren as Fabien Morvan Andrew Lee Potts as Mark Jones Daisy Axon as Lucy Thorian De Decker as Officer Remy Maxime Pipet as Xavier Henin Sandra Teles as Rebecca Arthur Combelles as Gabriel Oliver Jenkins as British Reporter Joanna Scanlan as Sarah Gleason Who is Sarah? Sarah is a single mother and is thrown into turmoil when she realises her daughter has vanished from her school trip abroad. Taking matters into her own hands, Sarah tries to get to the bottom of things, despite the Saint Michel locals not seeming all that bothered about the case at hand. Speaking about her character, Scanlan told Radio Times: "We need somebody who's just going to tell it as it is. And she has a lot of energy. She has a lot of positivity, by nature. She's got a lot going for her and how somebody like that deals with a crisis is really interesting. And yes, she pushes it sometimes, she goes a bit too far. But essentially, she's a bit of a heroine to me, that kind of person." Where have I seen Joanna Scanlan before? The actress and writer is known for her roles in The Thick of It, The Larkins, Getting On, No Offence and After Love. She has more recently starred in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy and Riot Women, as well as Slow Horses. Rupert Graves as Jason Bradley Who is Jason? Jason is Sarah's new partner and things seem to be going well for the pair – until tragedy strikes. Jason is a coach driver and is the one to actually transport Sarah's daughter Katie to France along with her classmates. Where have I seen Rupert Graves before? Graves is known for his roles in Sherlock, A Room with a View and Riviera. He has also starred in The Burning Girls, Surface and Washington Black. Robert Lindsay as Andrew Taylor Who is Andrew? Andrew lives in Saint Michel but is originally from the UK, having been a very successful businessman in England and then marrying a French woman. However, she dies suddenly and leaves Andrew to care for their daughter Virginie, who now works as a detective. Speaking about his character in a press pack for the series, Lindsay said: "We have a very close relationship. Andrew absolutely adores his daughter. He is very proud of her. And she loves him. But we discover that he has a bit of a history in England…" Where have I seen Robert Lindsay before? Lindsay has starred in various productions over the years with notable highlights including My Family, GBH, Hornblower and more recently, Sherwood and Generation Z. Dean Fagan as Neil Scott Who is Neil? Neil is the school teacher that is chaperoning the children to Saint Michel along with coach driver Jason. So, when Katie goes missing, it soon brings everyone into the line of suspicion. Where have I seen Dean Fagan before? Fagan is best known for his role as Luke Britton in Coronation Street, having starred in the soap from 2014 to 2018. He has also had a starring role in Smother, with features in other productions like Midsomer Murders, Time and Gladiator II. Missed Call continues to air on 5 nightly until Friday 17 April at 9pm. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Missed Call star talks drama's surprise ending: "It’s much darker than you might anticipate"
The new thriller premieres on 5 tonight.
Tonight kicks off the week-long reign of Missed Call on 5, which puts Joanna Scanlan front and centre as a single mother in distress after her daughter vanishes while on a school trip to France. The new thriller kicks off as Scanlan's Sarah is forced to take matters into her own hands after her daughter disappears during a school exchange in Saint Michel, with Sarah intent on finding out the truth about what's happened. Across five episodes, viewers are set to go on quite the rollercoaster ride as Sarah hunts for clues and is also surprisingly met with coldness from her daughter's host family. Chatting exclusively to Radio Times about what's to come in the show's final episodes, Scanlan teased: “Well, I definitely didn't guess the end when I was reading it. "I would defy anybody other than you know, Sherlock Holmes, to do so. It is a is a really good plot. Really, really chunkily enjoyable plot." She went on: "We have a lot of very fabulous suspects – wonderful, exotic, interesting, plausible suspects. I mean, I won't even say it ends well. It's not a guarantee that we're going to run through this and have the answer we want at the end of it. "It's multi-layered and what happens in that village when Sarah arrives and starts, you know, kicking the hornets nest is that it all sorts of really nasty, nasty things emerge. And it's much darker, actually, than you might anticipate from the start of the story.” Well, we'll just have to remain strapped in for what's to come! Read more: Slow Horse favourite stars in tense exclusive first-look clip at all-new 5 thriller Riot Women star Joanna Scanlan reveals the big difference with her new role in thriller Missed Call Also speaking to Radio Times about how his character slots into proceedings, Rupert Graves said of his character Jason: “I think one of the interesting things about this story is that when Sarah goes to investigate and something really important happens and all the bulls**t stops in her life, she just wants to find the truth and find her daughter and find out what's going on. "Inevitably, she looks at people and people are, like all people in the world, they have secrets. They start to come out and some of them are unsavoury. And yes, that is part of this story, the side that people show and the other darker or more mysterious side. And Jason definitely has mysteries and secrets.” The synopsis for Missed Call reads: "Set against the backdrop of a picturesque French village, Missed Call follows single mother Sarah, whose world is upended after receiving a late-night missed call from her teenage daughter, Katie, while she’s on a school exchange. "When Sarah arrives in France, she finds the host family and local authorities disturbingly indifferent to Katie’s disappearance. As Sarah refuses to accept their complacency, her search for her daughter spirals into a gripping and dangerous race against time." Missed Call will air on 5 on Monday 13 April at 9pm. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Sam West introduces Ade Edmondson to birding in exclusive first look at new series
All Creatures Great and Small star Samuel West and actor Adrian Edmondson are heading off on some weekend adventures around the country to spot and celebrate Britain's beautiful birds in a brand new three-part series. Kicking off tomorrow (14 April), the good friends set off on a spectacular birdwatching quest across the British Isles. For West, birding is a long-standing passion of his and for Edmondson, the hobby is something new – and West is showing him the ropes. In an exclusive clip shared with Radio Times, the long-time friends are seen walking along looking for a common firecrest and a goldcrest, the latter of which West shares has the weight of five playing cards. The pair continue their travels as they spot firecrests, but Edmondson takes some time to adjust to the binoculars and figure out how to be speedy enough to spot the birds. You can watch the full clip below. View Green Video on the source website Elsewhere in the episode, West introduces Edmondson to birding on the wild coast of West Cornwall, where autumn storms can bring rare transatlantic visitors. The pair start their journey at Hayle Estuary, as Edmondson gets to grips with egrets, wigeon and curlews, before heading to the rugged Kenidjack Valley in search of lost American birds – though it's a tiny firecrest and a friendly robin that steal the show. Elsewhere in remote West Cornwall, the pair search for the chough, and hope for exotic wind-blown foreign visitors. They then go on a 'wild goose chase' in north Norfolk and on the Somerset Levels they set out on a quest to find the elusive 'booming' bittern'. But it’s not all about the birds. Edmondson's love of cooking and a pint means that picnics and pubs are just as essential to the success of the trip – and there's plenty over the next few episodes! Sam & Ade Go Birding starts on Tuesday 14 April at 8pm on 5. Add Sam & Ade Go Birding to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Documentaries coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Riot Women star Joanna Scanlan reveals the big difference with her new role in thriller Missed Call
Scanlan heads up new 5 thriller, Missed Call.
Having just been seen on our screens in BBC's Riot Women, Joanna Scanlan is now heading up brand new thriller, Missed Call. In the new five-parter, Scanlan stars as single mother Sarah who is delivered every parent's worst nightmare when she receives a missed call from her daughter Katie, who is abroad on a school exchange. With the local forces appearing not to take her concerns seriously, Sarah takes matters into her own hands to find out just what's happened to her daughter. The role itself certainly feels like a world away from Scanlan's role as Beth Thornton in the Sally Wainwright drama, but did it feel as such when embodying the character? “It did actually [feel worlds apart], because Beth is depressed," Scanlan told Radio Times. "She's a depressed person. And yes, she goes on a journey and kind of finds herself to a certain extent. But I think she's sensitive, highly intelligent and worried about everything going wrong. "And you know, she's in a gloom state. She's, let's face it, suicidal and Sarah is the absolute opposite of that." Scanlan continued: "She is not somebody who overthinks things. She really goes with her gut, but she's clever and she's bright. She's one of those people who – you know when everybody's pussy footing around a subject, say. Everybody's being polite to a certain extent or trying not to offend, and then somebody just says it. Just says 'What's going on?'. And she's that person. "I really like those people. I think they're real energisers and, in our society, we need them. We need somebody who's just going to tell it as it is. And she has a lot of energy. She has a lot of positivity, by nature. She's got a lot going for her and how somebody like that deals with a crisis is really interesting. And yes, she pushes it sometimes, she goes a bit too far. But essentially, she's a bit of a heroine to me, that kind of person. I would love to be a bit more direct like that." Sherlock star Rupert Graves also added: “I'm glad in the story, she goes too far, because she you have to shake people out of their lethargy and their secrets as well and whatever they're hiding. You have to break through the barriers of that, yeah? And she does that, and that is kind of heroic.” Read more: Slow Horse favourite stars in tense exclusive first-look clip at all-new 5 thriller Jon Hamm reacts to Your Friends & Neighbours shock episode 2 twist – but says hope isn’t lost for Coop Of course, as we know Riot Women is set to return for a second season, with series creator Wainwright teasing at the time of its renewal: "Oh, this is where the fun really starts!" "We've all been so deeply moved by the huge, overwhelming, joyous, emotional response to series one, and now we're able to take the Riot Women extravaganza onto the next level!" said the show's creator, writer, lead director and executive producer. "We hope you’ll all join us on the series two rollercoaster!" The synopsis for Missed Call reads: "Set against the backdrop of a picturesque French village, Missed Call follows single mother Sarah, whose world is upended after receiving a late-night missed call from her teenage daughter, Katie, while she’s on a school exchange. "When Sarah arrives in France, she finds the host family and local authorities disturbingly indifferent to Katie’s disappearance. As Sarah refuses to accept their complacency, her search for her daughter spirals into a gripping and dangerous race against time." Missed Call will air on 5 on Monday 13 April at 9pm. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Slow Horses favourite stars in tense exclusive first-look clip at all-new 5 thriller
Could there be something uneasy brewing under the surface of Katie's sunlit holiday?
At some point in every parent's life, they've got to cut the strings and let their children go out into the world and spread their wings – something that Joanna Scanlan's Sarah is getting to grips with in 5's new thriller, Missed Call. The upcoming series debuts next week but Radio Times has an exclusive first look at the five-parter, which boasts a picturesque escape to the sunny South of France. However, as evidenced by the clip in question, not everything may be quite what it seems. In the clip (which you can watch above), single mother Sarah is seen eating her cereal in dreary England by herself while her daughter Katie (Emily Coates) has just touched down in France to stay at a French student's home in a school exchange programme. The stunning surroundings certainly are a world away from Sarah's own home, with Katie video calling her mother so that she can appreciate how grand it all is too. Katie then introduces her mother to the family she's staying with, the Morvans. Sitting down to eat breakfast, they seem picture-perfect as Caroline (Célia Diane) takes the lead and gets chatting to Sarah. She's then introduced to Emma (Lya Lessert) who doesn't appear all that interested and a chatty Fabien (Nicolas Van Beveren) who enquires about the English weather. Sarah alerts the family to Katie's picky eating, something that Fabien brushes away as a minor problem and says that they'll get Katie eating French food in no time. But when they disconnect the call and Sarah is left by herself, she starts to look slightly uneasy. Could she be overthinking letting her daughter go to another country? Or are her gut instincts starting to kick in? Read more: Philomena Cunk return confirmed by BBC for all-new series with a very different focus Shetland season 11 gets major update from BBC as flurry of new guest stars confirmed We do know that things are set to go seriously awry as Sarah takes matters into her own hands once Katie goes missing. As per the synopsis for Missed Call: "Set against the backdrop of a picturesque French village, Missed Call follows single mother Sarah, whose world is upended after receiving a late-night missed call from her teenage daughter, Katie, while she’s on a school exchange. "When Sarah arrives in France, she finds the host family and local authorities disturbingly indifferent to Katie’s disappearance. As Sarah refuses to accept their complacency, her search for her daughter spirals into a gripping and dangerous race against time." Of course, Scanlan is known for a variety of roles over the years, including a memorable stint on Apple TV's Slow Horses, but is leading the cast of this 5 thriller, which also stars Claire Keim (Vise le Coeur), Rupert Graves (Sherlock), François-Xavier Demaison (Disparue) and Robert Lindsay (Sherwood). Missed Call will air on 5 on Monday 13 April at 9pm. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Home and Away confirms return of fan-favourites 10 years after exit for "epic" event
The couple last appeared on the show in 2016.
Home and Away has confirmed the return of fan-favourite couple Darryl "Brax" Braxton and Ricky Sharpe in an "epic" event – 10 years after their exits from the show. The pair – who are played by Stephen Peacocke and Bonnie Sveen – will return to our screens in special episodes filmed in Western Australia, which are set to begin airing on Friday 17 April 2026. According to a press release, the special episodes will follow Brax, Ricky and their son Casey (Austin Cutcliffe), who have quietly built a whole new life for themselves working on a cattle station deep in the WA outback. But their peaceful existence is threatened when a desperate Tane (Ethan Browne) – framed for a crime he didn’t commit – lands on their doorstep hoping that Brax can help him disappear. "But when police launch a nationwide manhunt for Tane, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Harbouring a fugitive could lead authorities straight to them and threaten the perfect life they’ve spent years building," the release continues. "Will Brax and Ricky risk everything to take Tane in?" Filming on the special episodes took place last October across some of Western Australia’s most spectacular locations, including Elizabeth Quay in central Perth, Bullara Station near Exmouth, and in the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. Peacocke played Brax from 2011 to 2016, and won two Logie Awards for most popular actor for his role. Sveen portrayed Ricky between 2013 and 2016, and was awarded the Logie for most popular new talent in 2014. New episodes of Home and Away are available from 6am weekdays on 5. Add Home and Away to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Teacher season 3 ending explained: One final twist in silly, grim 5 thriller
**Warning: This article contains full spoilers for The Teacher season 3, which is available to stream in full on 5.** **This article also contains discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation that some readers may find distressing.** Well, that was quite the ride, wasn't it? The third season of anthology series The Teacher, which showed some promise in its opening episode as it set out to explore the generational divide – particularly on issues such as gender – spiralled into something completely absurd by the time the final credits rolled. "If you looked at episode 4 immediately after episode 1, you wouldn’t believe it," said Victoria Hamilton, who plays the titular educator Helen Simpson, ahead of its release. And she certainly wasn't exaggerating. The Teacher’s third instalment reached new, nonsensical heights – even by its own hysterical standards. So, where did we leave Helen and Cressida at the end of the series? And how about that final scene? Read on for a full breakdown of how season 3 wrapped up. The Teacher season 3 ending explained It quickly became clear that Cressida was punishing Helen because of her own emotional wounds, inflicted by a mother who walked out on her when she was younger and a father who simply had no time for her. And what better way to hurt the former head of drama – who had been removed from her post following Dee's suicide and due to her escalating conflict with Cressida – than to target her son? After extending the hand of friendship to Sam – which wasn't difficult considering his social isolation – she managed to seduce him and convince him to run away with her. But not before Cressida had accused Sam's dad, Terry, of attacking her to isolate him further. In a sudden escalation, she then pushed him, sending him crashing down and smacking his head – which could have spelled the end for him. Fortunately, he survived the ordeal. Having successfully lured Sam away from his parents, Cressida confided in him about her suicidal ideation – something Helen had already uncovered after finding evidence of self-harm in her dorm room at school. And she also encouraged Sam, who had been worn down by the bullying he was still being subjected to after being falsely accused of sexual assault at his old school, to lean into his own feelings of hopelessness. The pair then agreed to end their lives together and headed to a property owned by Cressida’s father. There, she unpacked a gun, placed it in Sam's hand and encouraged him to pull the trigger so they could be "free from all the pain". But thankfully, we were spared that horror when Helen arrived just in time and gently coaxed Sam into lowering the gun. She promised to get him the support he needed and to be there every step of the way. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Yet as Helen held her son in her arms and apologised profusely for not being present for him following the allegation and the breakdown of her marriage, Cressida seized her opportunity and grabbed the gun. Helen urged her to let Sam go, which she did, and once again it was just the two of them, facing off against one another. Helen then attempted to reach Cressida on an emotional level, as she had with Sam. She even apologised before pleading with her to put an end to this. But just when it looked like she'd broken through, Cressida lashed out and a tussle for the gun ensued. It was Helen who ended up holding the weapon – but in a horrifying move, and one that illustrated the true extent of her turmoil, Cressida picked up a shard of glass. "This is going to follow you forever," she said, before slashing her own throat in a move that should have killed her. But while Cressida miraculously survived (that's putting it mildly), those haunting words she had previously uttered still rang true. During Helen's visit to the institution where Cressida was being held, she delivered one final act of revenge. "I made a lot of mistakes, but I'm doing what I can to put things right," said her former teacher when asked if she was visiting out of guilt, her conscience now clear. "There are people here who can help you. I hope you let them." But just as Helen announced that this would be the last time they ever see or speak to each other, Cressida leaned back in her chair to reveal she was pregnant, much to Helen's horror. "I'll let you tell Sam," she added nonchalantly, before slowly walking away, hands resting on her growing stomach as the score swelled to a chilling crescendo. Cressida's nothing if not inventive... The Samaritans are also available 24/7 if you need to talk. You can contact them for free by calling 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or head to the website to find your nearest branch. The Teacher season 3 is available to stream in full on 5. Add The Teacher to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Teacher cast: Who stars in season 3 of 5 thriller?
Everything you need to know about the characters and where you've seen the cast before.
This article contains discussion of suicide that some readers may find distressing. Season 3 of The Teacher explores the feud between the titular educator and one of her students. "Helen Simpson, a teacher with 30 years' experience, dismisses what she considers the woke ideologies of the younger generation," reads the official synopsis. "Cressida Bancroft, an influential female student, dislikes Helen for accusing her of being a woke warrior to gain popularity." But when another student dies, Helen finds herself fighting not just to save her career, but her entire life. "I was really excited to explore subject matter that is really pertinent to now, and I don't think I've ever seen it discussed this way, or in such depth," said Victoria Hamilton, who leads the cast as Helen. "We’re looking at the problem of the generation divide and what gets lost in translation between us, which is something people continually talk about. I'm a mum of teenagers, and it's very refreshing to see a script that's actually addressing what has broken down between us, because I do think there has been a breakdown in communication." Hamilton is joined in the series by up-and-comer Alice Grant, alongside a number of other familiar faces – and some you may not recognise. Read on for the full cast rundown. The Teacher season 3 cast Victoria Hamilton as Helen Simpson Steve Edge as Terry Simpson Rochenda Sandall as Tessa Stewart Alice Grant as Cressida Bancroft Olly Rhodes as Sam Simpson Peter Ash as Sebastian Blake Navin Chowdry as Simon Cookson Ellis Jupiter as Dee Rainford-Thomas Shak Benjamin as Leo Dalton Malek Alkoni as Miles Crawford Natalie Gavin as DS O’Brien For more information about the characters and where you've seen the actors who play them before, read on. Victoria Hamilton plays Helen Simpson Who is Helen Simpson? Helen has over 30 years of teaching experience and has recently become head of drama at the boarding school where she works. But she "finds herself being challenged by an outspoken pupil" – who calls her out when Helen stumbles over a student's pronouns – and a "sinister grudge match quickly develops". What else has Victoria Hamilton been in? You might have watched her in Unforgotten, COBRA, The Crown, Doctor Foster and Lark Rise to Candleford, among others. Alice Grant plays Cressida Bancroft Who is Cressida Bancroft? She's described as an "influential alpha female student". Cressida doesn't like Helen after she accuses her of "attention-seeking and using her woke ideologies to gain likes" – so she uses another student to get across her opinions. What else has Alice Grant been in? You might have watched her in Mary & George. Steve Edge plays Terry Simpson Who is Terry Simpson? Helen's husband. "Some things have gone wrong in his life, and he's trying to patch them all back together," said Edge. "He’s had a mental breakdown recently, which has affected his relationship with his estranged wife, Helen. "He’s not happy with the way she dealt with it, but she has her own demons too." What else has Steve Edge been in? You probably know him from The Madame Blanc Mysteries and Benidorm. Rochenda Sandall plays Tessa Stewart Who is Tessa Stewart? One of Helen's colleagues, described by Sandall as "a very modern teacher". "She’s really into the politics of young people and tries to understand their thought processes," she added. "She’s a very understanding adult for the students to turn to, there’s zero judgement from her and everything is open for discussion." What else has Rochenda Sandall been in? Her credits include Line of Duty, Amandaland, The Rig and Criminal: UK. Olly Rhodes plays Sam Simpson Who is Sam Simpson? Helen and Terry's son. Sam lives on campus with his mum. He "recently left his former school for personal reasons and has been enrolled at Cheetham Hall", but he's being bullied online. What else has Olly Rhodes been in? Hollyoaks and Waterloo Road are some of the shows he's appeared in. Peter Ash plays Sebastian Blake Who is Sebastian Blake? He interviewed for Helen's role. He also "wants to support the students and radicalise the curriculum by stepping away from Shakespeare". What else has Peter Ash been in? He's best known for Coronation Street. He's also appeared in Footballers' Wives. Ellis Jupiter plays Dee Rainford-Thomas Who is Dee Rainford-Thomas? A vulnerable student who identifies as non-binary. "After a clash of ideals, Helen detains Cressida and Dee". Dee later dies by suicide. What else has Ellis Jupiter been in? This is their first major role. Shak Benjamin plays Leo Dalton Who is Leo Dalton? Dee's best friend. Leo and Helen's son Sam grow close following their death. What else has Shak Benjamin been in? He has appeared in Sex Education. Additional cast includes: Navin Chowdry (EastEnders) plays Simon Cookson – the headmaster. He organises a meeting among the teachers to "establish a support network for the students". Malek Alkoni (The Crow Girl) plays Miles Crawford – one of Helen's students. Natalie Gavin (Passenger) plays DS O’Brien – the detective leading the investigation following Dee's death. The Samaritans are also available 24/7 if you need to talk. You can contact them for free by calling 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or head to the website to find your nearest branch. The Teacher season 3 premieres on 5 at 9pm on Monday 30 March. The remaining three episodes will air across three consecutive nights. All episodes will also be available to stream from 10pm. Add The Teacher to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The 5 anthology series returns – but where were the cast and crew based this time?
This article contains discussion of suicide that some readers may find distressing. 5's The Teacher returns for its third season, this time starring Victoria Hamilton as a woman at risk of losing everything after one of her students dies by suicide. Helen Simpson, the new head of drama at private boarding school Cheetham Hall, is caught on camera rebuking pupil Dee, who is non-binary – something she has been struggling to understand – during detention. The incident occurs at a time when Dee is already having a particularly tough time and the following morning, Dee's body is found in their dorm room. The footage was recorded by fellow student Cressida – a self-proclaimed ally who has had it in for Helen ever since she denied her request to move away from Shakespeare in favour of something more modern, and accused her of feigning concern for Dee to suit her own agenda. Determined to punish her teacher, Cressida goes to extreme lengths, forcing Helen to fight like never before to stop her life from unravelling. "As Helen delves deeper into Cressida's past, she uncovers a world of sadness and neglect. But has she learnt enough about Cressida to stop her final act of revenge?" reads the official synopsis. "If you looked at episode 4 immediately after episode 1 you wouldn’t believe it," said Hamilton. "But that’s what happens in life, one tiny action or word can have a ripple effect." The actor added that she hopes "the audience changes sides throughout the drama as well, as you start to understand more about why each of these characters is behaving in a certain way". "That's when drama becomes really interesting, when you think you're on one person's side and suddenly you see another." While season 3 of The Teacher is an entirely new narrative, it does have one thing in common with the first instalment: much of the filming took place abroad, despite it being set in England. For more information about the filming locations, read on. Where was The Teacher season 3 filmed? The exterior of boarding school Cheetham Hall was actually a hotel called Fanhams Hall, in Hertfordshire. But the interior scenes were all filmed in Vitoria-Gasteiz, in northern Spain, described by Steve Edge (Helen's estranged husband Terry) as "a very Spanish place with very few tourists". "We were out there for two months... so all of the Basque Country was available to us, it was amazing," said Rochenda Sandall, who plays teacher Tessa Stewart. Read more: The Teacher season 3 director explains they didn't want to "pit groups against each other" in gender politics drama She also revealed that the school was "an old church that was recommissioned and converted into an art college", which the team then transformed into Cheetham Hall. "It didn't really look anything like my school," she laughed. The Samaritans are also available 24/7 if you need to talk. You can contact them for free by calling 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or head to the website to find your nearest branch. The Teacher season 3 premieres on 5 at 9pm on Monday 30 March. The remaining three episodes will air across three consecutive nights. All episodes will also be available to stream from 10pm. Add The Teacher to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Teacher season 3 director explains they didn't want to 'pit groups of characters against each other' in gender politics drama
"The way pronouns are used is an ongoing conversation... and addressing it takes away any fear or trepidation."
Content warning: This article contains discussion of suicide that some readers may find distressing. When a pupil at a private boarding school dies by suicide in the third season of anthology series The Teacher, a member of staff finds themselves in the firing line. "The story explores queer culture from the perspective of younger and older generations," said director Dominic Leclerc. "The impact of words on representation and identity is a cultural conversation that is alive right now and we wanted to continue that in a sensitive way." In the series, Helen Simpson (Victoria Hamilton), the newly promoted head of drama at the prestigious Cheetham Hall, berates Dee Rainford-Thomas – a non-binary student who has been having a particularly tough time of late, and whose pronouns Helen repeatedly gets wrong – during detention. Though she's challenged by pupil Cressida about her attitude, Helen is stubborn in her stance. The synopsis adds: "A sinister grudge match quickly develops between teacher and pupil and, when Dee takes her own life following an argument with Helen, Cressida resorts to blackmail to make Helen pay for her 'outdated' views." What ensues is "a really intense warfare and cat-and-mouse game between one student and one teacher, whilst looking at the wider issue," added Leclerc. "From the very beginning we were looking at ideas around gender identity and how young people have brought pronouns into our culture. The story is nuanced; we didn’t want to pit our groups of characters against each other with a single point of view because that’s not real. "The way pronouns are used is an ongoing conversation, it’s not something everyone suddenly gets right, and addressing it takes away any fear or trepidation." The cast is led by Victoria Hamilton (Unforgotten, The Crown, Doctor Foster), who plays Helen. She's joined by familiar faces including Rochenda Sandall (Line of Duty) and Steve Edge (The Madame Blanc Mysteries), alongside a host of newer talent, including Alice Grant as Cressida. "She hits all her triggers," said Hamilton of her sparring partner in the series. "It's an example of the fact that the people we are most repelled by in life are often those we see something of ourselves in. "Helen knows she's a really good teacher... so when somebody then picks at that, and the students don't want to learn the texts she has set, it's like they’re saying she has no understanding of the generation she used to be so brilliant at teaching... that's terrifying for her." For information and support The Samaritans are available 24/7 if you need to talk. You can contact them for free by calling 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or head to the website to find your nearest branch. The Teacher season 3 premieres on 5 at 9pm on Monday 30 March. The remaining three episodes will air across three consecutive nights. All episodes will also be available to stream from 10pm. Add The Teacher to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
How many episodes is Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards?
The hard-hitting drama changed shape in the run-up to its launch.
Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards has become a breakout hit for 5, with some viewers now wondering whether there will be more episodes of the hard-hitting drama. The project dramatises how ex-BBC News host Edwards (portrayed by Martin Clunes) went from being one of the most trusted voices in the country to a figure of disgrace as he pleaded guilty to making indecent images of children. After weeks of curiosity over how exactly the programme would approach this dark and widely publicised scandal, it should come as little surprise that Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards drove considerable viewership to 5 on Tuesday night. The drama had an overnight rating of 1.5 million viewers, representing 17 percent of the audience share, besting ITV1 documentary WhatsApp Obsession: The Murder of Stephanie Hansen and Channel 4 competition The Hunt: Prey vs Predator. Clearly, the public remains interested in this story, with some now wondering whether a second episode is planned. How many episodes is Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards? Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is a one-off drama, with no further episodes planned, but if you thought otherwise then don't worry – you're not going crazy. In January, when 5 announced that it had commissioned the drama, the broadcaster initially billed it as a two-part miniseries, but by March it was being described as a single feature-length programme instead. No explanation was given for the change in format. It may be that the filmmakers simply felt the story worked better in one piece, as opposed to having a disruptive break which could potentially have diminished its emotional impact. View Green Video on the source website How to watch Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards premiered at 9pm on Tuesday 24th March 2026. It is now available to stream on 5's website if you missed it the first time around. Although the drama's announcement proved controversial, many critics and viewers have since voiced approval for how it handles its weighty themes and the story of the anonymous then-teenager, known as 'Ryan' (Osian Morgan). Radio Times' deputy previews editor David Brown wrote that it was a "stark study of an imbalance of power" in a recent comment, which pushed back against the idea that it's "too soon" to examine these shocking events. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is available for catch up on the Channel 5 website. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast. Add shows to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards cast – including Martin Clunes's side-by-side comparison
The former Doc Martin and Manhunt star has taken on perhaps his most challenging role to date.
Martin Clunes has taken on one of his most challenging roles to date, portraying disgraced BBC News presenter Huw Edwards in a new drama from 5. The one-off feature-length programme explores the Welsh broadcaster's downfall after he was convicted of making indecent images of children in summer 2024. In addition, Edwards had also been messaging a teenager, who remains anonymous to this day, since they were 17 years old. Clunes took the role very seriously, including an uncanny adoption of the ex-newsreader's distinctive voice which can be heard in the new programme. At the premiere, producer Samantha Anstiss described her colleagues at 5 as "brave from the outset" for agreeing to explore the story behind the headlines – which has arguably been overlooked thus far – through to the eventual conviction. "They have been totally unwavering all the way through," she revealed. "[They] wanted to tell this story through the rough and the smooth... It's proper public service broadcasting at its finest, and it's dealing with really urgent themes all the way." Here's an overview of the full Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards cast, with the hard-hitting TV film available to watch now. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards cast <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/03/Huw-Edwards-5-drama-Martin-Clunes-Osian-Morgan-334a619.jpg" width="2913" height="1942" alt="Martin Clunes and Osian Morgan in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, standing in a corridor, with Clunes's Edwards wearing a suit with a serious expression on his face." title="Martin Clunes and Osian Morgan in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards" /> Here's an overview of the key players in 5 drama Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards – scroll on for more detailed profiles on each person depicted and the actor playing them, including where you might have seen them before. Martin Clunes as Huw Edwards Osian Morgan as Ryan Sian Reese Williams as Carys Jason Hughes as Mick Aisha-May Hunte as Sasha Lorraine Burroughs as Angelica Chanel Cresswell as Scarlet Clare Calbraith as Victoria Joseph Loane as Alex Ben Bishop as Ben Martin Clunes as Huw Edwards Who is Huw Edwards? Huw Edwards used to be one of the most trusted voices in the country, owing to his many years of reliably presenting BBC News – including coverage of Queen Elizabeth II's death. This was until he was ultimately convicted of making indecent images of children in summer 2024. In addition, Edwards had been messaging a teenager, who remains anonymous to this day, since they were 17 years old. This individual, referred to by the false name of 'Ryan' in 5's drama, was interviewed by the production team in order to give an accurate portrayal of his side of the story. Two months after pleading guilty to his crimes, Edwards was given a six-month suspended sentence and placed on the sex offenders register. What else has Martin Clunes been in? Clunes is known for comedic roles in Doc Martin, William and Mary, and Men Behaving Badly, as well as dramatic turns in Vanity Fair, Manhunt, Out There and Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights. He recently made a guest appearance in Best Medicine, a US remake of Doc Martin, playing the lead character's father. Osian Morgan as Ryan Who is Ryan? Ryan represents the teenager that Huw Edwards messaged (Ryan was not his real name, and other changes may have been put in place to protect his anonymity). He is a working-class Welsh boy, who is drawn down a dark path by the influence of his famous benefactor. Osian Morgan, who plays the role, said: "The Ryan we see is lost. He's going into adulthood, facing that transition from a boy to a man that everyone has to experience. "On top of that, Ryan is in the midst of an identity crisis – he doesn't understand his sexuality or who he is. He is completely manipulated and used, it's incredibly sad." Morgan added: "The way that Ryan overcame what happened to him is incredibly inspiring to me, I don't think I would have had his strength. He will be an inspiration to millions of others when the film airs, not just for sharing his story but for facing such a downward spiral and then mustering the courage to get out of that situation." What else has Osian Morgan been in? The actor recently appeared alongside Yellowstone's Kelly Reilly in Sky mystery Under Salt Marsh. His other credits include high school drama Waterloo Road, ITV soap Emmerdale and sitcom Ruby Speaking. Sian Reese Williams as Carys Who is Carys? Carys is Ryan's mother, who is deeply concerned by her son's increasing distance, unhealthy habits and the money that he seems to be pulling from thin air. What else has Sian Reese-Williams been in? Reese-Williams earned acclaim with her performance in Welsh crime drama Hidden / Craith. Other notable works include Hinterland, Line of Duty, Wolf and Waiting for the Out. She initially rose to prominence in the cast of Emmerdale, where she played Gennie Walker over a five-year period. Jason Hughes as Mick Who is Mick? Mick is Carys' partner, who has a contentious relationship with her son. What else has Jason Hughes been in? Hughes is perhaps best known for his role in '90s hit drama This Life and perennial ITV mystery Midsomer Murders, where he played Sergeant Ben Jones across more than 50 episodes. Other credits include Three Girls, Marcella and The Pact. Chanel Cresswell as Scarlet Howes Who is Scarlet Howes? Scarlet is a reporter for The Sun, who ultimately broke the famous 'BBC star' news story, which appeared on the newspaper's front page to great shock and speculation. It was later revealed to be about Edwards. What else has Chanel Cresswell been in? Cresswell is best known for her work across Shane Meadows's various This Is England projects, with her performance in the 90s-set finale earning a BAFTA nomination. You might also know her from Sky's Trollied, Channel 4's Vardy v Rooney: A Courtroom Drama and Netflix's The Gentlemen. Clare Calbraith as Victoria Newton Who is Victoria Newton? Newton is the editor of The Sun newspaper. What else has Clare Calbraith been in? She plays the role of Sandy in ITV's Grace, opposite John Simm, and recently portrayed Newsnight producer Sam McAllister in Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal. Other credits include ITVX's Tell Me Everything, Unforgotten and Baptiste. Ben Bishop as Ben O'Driscoll Who is Ben O'Driscoll? Ben is a news editor at The Sun. What else has Ben Bishop been in? Bishop has recently appeared in crime dramas Whitstable Pearl and Endeavour. Lorraine Burroughs as Angelica Who is Angelica? Angelica is a producer for BBC News, who works closely with Huw Edwards and seemingly admires him prior to the scandal unfolding. What else has Lorraine Burroughs been in? Burroughs recently appeared opposite Ella Purnell in her darkly comic Sky drama Sweetpea. Earlier credits include DC's Pennyworth, BBC One's Hard Sun, DCI Banks and 2012 indie flick Fast Girls. Joseph Loane as Alex Williams Who is Alex Williams? Alex Williams is a convicted sex offender who provided illegal images of children to Huw Edwards. What else has Joseph Loane been in? He recently played the supporting role of Glenn in Channel 4 drama In Flight, starring Katherine Kelly. Aisha-May Hunte as Sasha Who is Sasha? Sasha is a friend of Ryan's, who takes him in after a fallout with his parents – but their own relationship also proves to be highly volatile. What else has Aisha-May Hunte been in? Hunte has previously appeared in Welsh drama Mudtown, Itopia and Death Valley. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is available to stream now on 5. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast. Add Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
The Good Ship Murder season 4 officially confirmed – but premiere episode will see major cast change
The new season will be setting sail soon.
5 has confirmed that crime drama The Good Ship Murder will return for a fourth season after its continued success. The Good Ship Murder follows retired police detective turned cabaret singer Jack Grayling, played by Shayne Ward, as he solves a string of murders onboard a luxury cruise ship and in the ports it docks at. Together with the ships First Officer Kate Woods (Catherine Tyldesley) they work to solve the crimes all the whilst navigating a complicated romantic relationship along the way. The new season sees Jack Grayling embark on a brand new voyage packed with intrigue and danger – but unfortunately will be the last for Kate Woods. The first episode of the new season will open with Catherine Tyldesley returning for a special appearance as her character, but will mark Kate’s final chapter on board the boat. Her departure from the show starts an exciting new era for Jack, as he navigates fresh challenges, new alliances and unexpected twists set in more sun-soaked destinations. And of course, with more spectacular showtunes, because what would the show be without them. Season 4, which is comprised of eight 60-minute episodes, will introduce a wave of guest stars as the ship sets sail once more to make up for Tyldesley's departure from the show. Greg Barnett, Commissioning Editor, 5, said: "We are thrilled to be bringing The Good Ship Murder back for a fourth series. "Audiences have truly embraced the show’s unique combination of mystery, music and escapism, and we are excited to continue Jack’s journey with even more surprises and new faces in store." Meanwhile, Andy Morgan, executive producer, added: "As we set sail on Series 4, we’re welcoming a host of wonderful new faces that audiences are going to love. "Together, they’ll join our hero Jack for more adventures and plenty of show-stopping tunes, across the high seas. It’s a bittersweet moment as we bid a fond farewell to a beloved character and friend, but we’re very excited about the next voyage for The Good Ship Murder." Produced by Clapperboard in association with Fifth Season, since its debut in 2023, the uplifting cosy crime show has been a standout performer for 5, thanks to its combination of romance and musical flair. Add The Good Ship Murder to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards true story – how did the scandal unfold?
The family who helped expose the once-respected newsreader are telling their side of the story.
Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards explores one of the most shocking media scandals of recent years, when one of the UK's most respected journalistic voices was exposed as living a sinister double life. Edwards (portrayed in this one-off drama by Martin Clunes) was ultimately convicted on three counts of making indecent images of children, for which he was given a six-month suspended sentence and listed on the sex offenders' register. However, another angle of the story, explored in 5's hard-hitting programme, explores the impact of Edwards on a young man he spoke to between the ages of 17 and 20. The anonymous individual, referred to as 'Ryan' in the dramatisation (played by Osian Morgan), was at the centre of early reports by The Sun, which revealed that Edwards had been paying him for sexual videos. But the details of their toxic dynamic went largely overlooked as questions over Edwards's employment, salary and, eventually, criminality became the focus of news coverage. This drama, written and produced in collaboration with the victim and his family, aims to help rectify that balance. Here you'll find an overview of the disturbing true story that inspired Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards true story – how did the scandal unfold? <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/03/Huw-Edwards-5-drama-Martin-Clunes-Osian-Morgan-334a619.jpg" width="2913" height="1942" alt="Martin Clunes and Osian Morgan in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, standing in a corridor, with Clunes's Edwards wearing a suit with a serious expression on his face." title="Martin Clunes and Osian Morgan in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards" /> Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards opens with a recreation of the newsreader telling the nation that Queen Elizabeth II had died at the age of 96 in September 2022. Though not the only noteworthy story he covered in his years behind the BBC News desk, this particular report epitomises the sheer level of trust that the corporation – and viewers at home – placed in Edwards at that point in time. "It's one of those moments – everyone knows where they were when they saw it," recalled Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards director Michael Samuels. "From a craft point of view, we wanted to get the look of the scene right... but what really interested me was exploring what's going on underneath with Huw Edwards's hidden life at that time." That as-yet-unseen side of the news anchor was far darker than anyone expected, with this drama exploring his impact on a young man named 'Ryan' (not his real name). The connection began during the COVID-19 pandemic – another time when BBC News played a pivotal role in our day-to-day lives – after 17-year-old 'Ryan' met Alex Williams on a dating app, who informed him that Edwards would be open to contact. Williams was later revealed to have supplied Edwards with indecent images of children, although 'Ryan' did not know this at the time. 'Ryan' messaged Edwards on social media soon after the tip-off and, over the next few years, provided him with sexual videos in exchange for large sums of money sent to his PayPal account, totalling tens of thousands of pounds. This money became increasingly important to 'Ryan', whose turbulent relationship with his mother and step-father had led him to sleep on friends' sofas and even at a homeless shelter. The anonymous young man gave an interview to The Mirror in August 2024, then-aged 21, after Edwards was charged with making indecent images of children, which offered insight into their dynamic. He recalled feeling, during the period of their communication, that Edwards genuinely "cared" for him, but later came to view these exchanges in a very different light. "Although it was a friendship at the beginning, it did change," he said. "He would say things like, 'Are you going to do something for me then?' I needed help, so I did. "I feel like he sort of fed on my vulnerability... as he knew I needed the money. I felt like I was being groomed." He added: "That's how the manipulation started. I looked up to this man but he didn't really care about me. I felt like he was taking advantage of me but I felt I had to listen to him because he was Huw Edwards." View Green Video on the source website This misplaced sense of loyalty to Edwards stopped the young man from going to the papers or to the BBC at an earlier point, with his mother and step-father eventually taking the matter out of his hands. They were horrified when they learned of the influence that Edwards had over their son and the material that they had been sharing, not least because they said the money from the BBC star was going towards 'Ryan's addiction to crack cocaine. The parents first complained to the BBC about Edwards and demanded that payments cease immediately. When the corporation failed to take swift action, their next port of call was The Sun newspaper and its reporter Scarlet Howes, who published an initial story in July 2023 that sent a shockwave through the UK media industry. The front page of the tabloid read, "Top BBC star in sex pics probe: Presenter now off-air". Due to legal concerns, Edwards was not named at this stage, resulting in a flurry of accusations on social media as users speculated on the identity of the mystery celebrity. After almost a week of such frenzied activity, Edwards's wife Vicky Flind released a statement confirming his identity as the subject of The Sun's reporting. "I am doing this primarily out of concern for his mental well-being and to protect our children," she wrote. "Huw is suffering from serious mental health issues. As is well documented, he has been treated for severe depression in recent years. "The events of the last few days have greatly worsened matters, he has suffered another serious episode and is now receiving in-patient hospital care where he'll stay for the foreseeable future." The disclosure that Edwards was suffering "serious mental health issues", combined with the absence of criminality at that time, led to backlash towards The Sun for how it disclosed the information. However, these misgivings largely fell away in July 2024, a year on from the initial report, when the Metropolitan Police charged Edwards with making indecent images of children (by receiving them digitally). The aforementioned Alex Williams, who had first suggested to 'Ryan' that he contact Edwards, had supplied the newsreader with the illegal material, which included seven category A images (i.e. the most extreme). It was at this stage that 'Ryan' finally dropped any attempts to justify Edwards's conduct to himself or others. In his Mirror interview, he said: "Last year, I was still protecting him... and I didn't really understand his true nature. But then hearing this news, all those nagging doubts were confirmed. It made my stomach drop." The BBC later apologised to 'Ryan's parents following a review into its complaints procedure, admitting that it should have acted more quickly on their initial complaint. The Sun's reporting was a major resource in the creation of 5 drama Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, as producer Samantha Anstiss told press at the premiere of the one-off drama. "After trusting us, [The Sun] was able to share affidavits and incredible first-hand primary source materials," she recalled. "These text messages, which I must admit, when I first saw them, I felt like I was going into the heart of darkness." Ultimately, Edwards pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children (by receiving digital copies) and was later handed a six-month suspended sentence as well as being placed on the sex offenders' register. The sentence was reduced due to the ex-presenter's mental health issues and his early plea, although some commentators have questioned its perceived lenience in that it did not demand any prison time. There was also an uproar over the salary that Edwards had taken during his suspension, which the BBC asked to be returned. As of September 2024, it was "still waiting" for that to happen. In the midst of all these questions, revelations and furious debates, the matter of 'Ryan's interactions with Edwards became a less talked-about point, despite the hurt that he and his family had suffered through. Ahed of transmission, Edwards criticised the programme makers in a statement provided to MailOnline, claiming that production company Wonderhood Studios "made no attempt to check with me the truth of any aspect of their narrative before going ahead with the production". He continued: "They belatedly asked for a response after the drama had been made, while reserving the right to edit any such response. They also refused to disclose whether any of those making allegations had been paid for their contributions. "I am making an effort to produce my own account of these terrible events. This is a slow process given the fragile state of my health. "Mental illness is misunderstood by many but can never be an excuse for criminality. It can, however, at least help explain why people sometimes behave in shocking and reprehensible ways, and why things fell apart for me in the way they did." In response, broadcaster 5 insisted that the drama had been produced "in accordance with Ofcom's Broadcasting Code". A spokesperson for the channel told Radio Times: "Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is based on extensive interviews with the victim, his family, the journalists who revealed his story, text exchanges between the victim and Edwards, and court reporting. "All allegations made in the film were put to Huw Edwards via his solicitors six weeks before transmission." Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards premieres on 5 on Tuesday 24th March 2026. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast. Add shows to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
Martin Clunes explains why he chose to star in hard-hitting Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards
The actor praised 5's drama for going "beyond the salacious curiosity" in the scandal.
Martin Clunes has explained why he chose to portray disgraced BBC News presenter Huw Edwards in a factual drama for 5, chronicling his fall from grace and the impact he had on a vulnerable teenager. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards sees Clunes co-star opposite Osian Morgan (Under Salt Marsh) as 'Ryan' (not his real name), who was 17 years old when he first came into contact with the broadcaster. The feature-length one-off drama is the product of thorough research, including interviews with the anonymous young man, plus verbatim text messages exchanged between Edwards and the teenager. Many were surprised when Clunes was cast in the hard-hitting drama, given that the actor is arguably best known for more light-hearted work, such as Doc Martin and Men Behaving Badly. Speaking to press, the actor said that he "knew it would be a challenge on a number of levels", but outlined his reasons for taking a chance on the high-profile project. "The script is always the most important thing and I thought it was really powerful and compelling – it's always good when drama tackles difficult stories, especially when it does so as intelligently as this project," Clunes explained. "Beyond the salacious curiosity around this story, I really thought there was another story worth telling, that of 'Ryan' and his family. Obviously, the press and the media have focused on the fallen big man, Huw Edwards, which, of course, is a big story. "But behind that, there's this lad and his family whose lives got turned upside down and rather spoiled," he continued. "I'm also a massive fan of the director, Michael Samuels, and I never thought I'd get to work with him. I thought he was out of my reach as far as directors go, so I was really thrilled about the chance to work with him on this." View Green Video on the source website Samuels was honoured at 2011's BAFTA TV Awards for directing Channel 4 period drama Any Human Heart, starring Jim Broadbent, with other notable credits including Man in an Orange Shirt and feature film The Windermere Children. Clunes went on to say that he's "not desperate to reshape" his public image, and would happily "play someone like Doc Martin again in a heartbeat". Indeed, he is currently playing a very similar role in US remake Best Medicine. "I've played a murderer before and I'm vile in Wuthering Heights, so this isn't my first dark role, but I always just take work from what’s on offer, and I've never had a plan," he concluded. Speaking at the premiere, Clunes jokingly attributed his casting to Michael Sheen being "busy", referencing the actor's tendency to portray famous faces – from Prince Andrew (A Very Royal Scandal) and Tony Blair (The Queen) to David Frost (Frost/Nixon) and Chris Tarrant (Quiz). Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards co-star Morgan echoed Clunes's sentiment that this disturbing story was being told in the right way, by prioritising the perspective of 'Ryan' over that of Edwards. Morgan said: "Audiences are used to seeing stories focused on the perpetrator and their downfall, but this drama asks a different question – what does the experience do to the survivor? "That emotional anchor is incredibly necessary. I think if audiences walk away thinking less about the scandal, and more about the human cost behind these headlines, then we've achieved something worthwhile." Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards premieres on 5 on Tuesday 24 March 2026. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast. Add Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
5's returning thriller led by The Crown star has release date confirmed
Victoria Hamilton will star in the third season of the school-based anthology.
Following a first season starring Sheridan Smith back in 2022, and a second season starring Kara Tointon in 2024, 5 anthology drama The Teacher is almost back, with the release date for season 3 having been confirmed. The first episode of the new season, which sees The Crown's Victoria Hamilton in the lead role, will air on 5 at 9pm on Monday 30 March. The subsequent three episodes will air each following night at 9pm, on Tuesday 31, Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2, while the season will also be available to stream in full from 10pm on Monday 30. Alongside Hamilton, this new season of The Teacher stars Steve Edge, Rochenda Sandall, Alice Grant, Olly Rhodes, Peter Ash, Navin Chowdhry, Ellis Jupiter, Shak Benjamin, Malek Alkoni and Natalie Gavin. The synopsis for season 3 says that Hamilton plays Helen Simpson, "a teacher with 30 years' experience who dismisses the woke ideologies of the younger generation". The synopsis continues: "Influential female student Cressida Bancroft dislikes Helen for accusing her of being a woke warrior to gain popularity. After this clash of ideals, Cressida sets out to turning the world against Helen, before focussing her attention on Helen’s family, including her son Sam. "As Helen delves deeper into Cressida’s past, she uncovers a world of sadness and neglect. But has she learnt enough about Cressida to stop her final act of revenge?" As well as playing the Queen Mother in The Crown seasons 1 and 2, Hamilton has also had roles in series including Lark Rise to Candleford, Doctor Foster, Life, COBRA, The Crow Girl, Unforgotten and Slow Horses. Other stars to have appeared in The Teacher across its first two seasons include Samuel Bottomley, Cecilia Noble, Sharon Rooney, Will Mellor and Emmett J Scanlan. The Teacher will air on 5 from 9pm on Monday 30 March. Add The Teacher to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Would the Ellis cast return for season 3? Star reveals "easy" answer and potential story
Could Ellis be returning for a third season?
Now in its second season, Ellis continues to go from strength to strength as the detective drama sees out yet another strong instalment. This recent batch of episodes has not only seen Ellis (Sharon D Clarke) and Harper's (Andrew Gower) dynamic come into its own, but it has also seen the pair yet again go into various small towns to investigate some grisly cases. But what does the future of the series look like? While the series stars can't necessarily have a say in whether Ellis will continue, we posed the question of a season 3 renewal to Gower and asked whether he would return for more. "Oh yeah, that’s a very easy ‘yes’. To work with Sharon and to keep giving life to Harper and Ellis," the actor told Radio Times. Gower continued: "I’ll keep reiterating this but it’s the audience, they always say it’s all about the audience, right? If we can keep entertaining audiences and they keep wanting more, then that’s what we’ll do with Ellis. I think the more series we have or the more episodes we have – films, whatever people call them – then that means that we’re doing something right and that means that this relationship can grow. "At some point maybe grow apart to come together, whatever. That’s the exciting thing about British detective shows, there’s scope where you can build from one series to however many. Long may it continue!” As Gower intimates, could a brand new season see Ellis and Harper's professional working dynamic start to take shape in a different way? Fans have known them together since the show's first episode, so it would certainly be a bold move to potentially focus on one character over the other or to see them going their separate ways – but we'll reserve judgement for now! Read more: The Marlow Murder Club stars tease "very funny" blind dating storyline for beloved character The Capture creator explains Carey’s decisions in mind-bending season 3 episode 2 Gower did previously explain a bit more about their changing dynamic this season, with it very clear that Harper has devoted a large portion of his life to Ellis. He told Radio Times: "If it was a game of poker, he’s laid out all his cards like, 'Ellis, I’m in. I’ve given up the station I know, the life I know and I’ve got my life in a suitcase and I want to be into this'." Gower continued: "He’s got so much to learn and the experience that Ellis has – working in London and on a plethora of cases that Harper hasn’t experienced yet. It’s great to pick up where they’re comfortable with each other but there’s still that threat of ‘Is this going to be forever?’ or ‘Does Ellis need Harper as much as Harper needs Ellis?’. Which is such a great dynamic to play." As of now, 5 have not announced whether Ellis will be returning for more but with the series having proven to be a hit with its first outing and continuing on in a strong vein in its second, we're crossing our fingers for more. Ellis season 2 continues on Tuesday 17 March and Wednesday 18 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis star teases episode 3 that "throws spanners": "It alludes to Harper’s history"
"It kind of constantly throws spanners and different challenges."
The second season of Ellis continues this week, with the next pair of episodes set to lift a bit more of a lid on Harper's (Andrew Gower) life, it seems. When asked what's to come in the rest of the season, Gower told Radio Times: "I’m sure Sharon [D Clarke] would say this too but the next episode is really great – it alludes to Harper and my history, maybe bits of my family more than it’s ever done before. "We arrive at a community which I’m familiar with and which I have history with. Which again, when I read that, getting however many episodes into a TV show and still finding out new information about the characters – I’m all for that. I love it." Gower continued: "Also, for me as an actor, it’s great because then it fuels what’s happened before and where we’re going in the future. That is a slate quarry where they’re manufactured, it’s based around a family that I have previous history with. "The subtlety sometimes of where we move forward with these characters, how they’re tested and the relationship, it kind of constantly throws spanners and different challenges. It was exciting to see where they go and audiences have got a lot to look forward to.” As the series has gone on, we've continued to get a window into Ellis's personal life and her relationship with daughter Grace, but we still remain relatively none the wiser as to Harper's personal circumstances. So, it's safe to say that fans will be pleased to learn a little bit more about him. But as is the case with the series, the utmost importance for our lead detectives is the investigation at hand – and it seems like quite the tricky one this week. The episode synopsis reads: "The village of Elmsly is shaken when university student Abi Marshall is found crushed beneath fallen scaffolding at Quinn Artisan Stone - a construction firm and the area’s economic powerhouse. Bright, ambitious and well-liked, her sudden death sends shockwaves through the community. "Owner Elliot Quinn calls it a tragic accident, eager to shield his business from bad press, but Ellis isn’t convinced. The camera that should have recorded the collapse was inexplicably offline and Abi’s injuries don’t match that of the fall, all suggesting the accident was staged." Read more: The West Wing icon reveals his favourite memories from the show: "It's like civic porn" The Marlow Murder Club stars tease "very funny" blind dating storyline for beloved character This second season of Ellis once again sees Sharon D Clarke and Gower at the helm of the series as Ellis and Harper, with the pair well and truly in the swing of things now as a detective duo after a bit of a rocky start in season 1. So far, they've been faced with the murder of a local businessman, which had quite the twist and involved Gower getting to grips with his own stunts. As for whether these upcoming episodes feature anything similar of the sort, we'll just have to wait and see. Ellis season 2 continues on Tuesday 17 March and Wednesday 18 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Is drama Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards really 'too soon'? I argue it's a stark study of an imbalance of power
Martin Clunes stars as the disgraced newsreader in an upcoming production from 5.
Whenever television dramatises a recent scandal, the same response quickly surfaces: it’s “too soon”. But the phrase can sometimes feel like a polite way of saying we’d rather not confront our discomfort just yet. After all, awkward truths become far easier to process once they’ve been safely consigned to the past. Given the personality at the heart of it, Power: the Downfall of Huw Edwards (airing on 24 March on 5) is bound to be the latest drama to find itself at the centre of this debate. Dramatising the fall of the once-trusted newsreader was always likely to provoke such a reaction. For years, Edwards appeared as solid and familiar as the desk he sat behind. Yet waiting doesn’t necessarily make such stories more respectful. Time alone can’t solve the ethical question that defines this case. If anything, facing it now may help keep our gaze on the wrongdoing rather than allowing it to fade from view. Arguably, what matters more is tone rather than timing. The risk with a project such as this is that it exploits a traumatic situation for entertainment or humanises its central figure to the point where it feels like mitigation. Thankfully, the focus here is less on any remorse Edwards may have felt after his disgrace and more on the controlling grip the presenter – played with quiet menace by Martin Clunes – exerted over the 17-year-old boy he groomed. The result is a stark study in the imbalance of power, with vulnerable youngster Ryan (Osian Morgan) depicted as someone caught in the psychological leverage Edwards wielded as a person of influence. At times, the drama captures that manipulation in small but palpably distressing detail: in private exchanges, Edwards repeatedly addresses the teenager as “baby”, a tone grotesquely out of step with the sober image he projected each night to viewers. In other moments, he berates and bullies his prey, steadily eroding Ryan’s self-worth and distancing him from his mother, Carys (Sian Reese-Williams), who fears she is losing her son. The story also explores the deeper impropriety beyond those first headlines. Early press reports focused on Edwards’s relationship with a then-unnamed teenager, but investigators later unearthed worrying online conversations with another man between late 2020 and mid-2021. Those messages were found to include illegal images of children, some classified as being in the most serious categories. The discovery prompted a police investigation into Edwards’s internet activity, which eventually saw him admit offences relating to indecent images of minors. The portrayal of these events is heightened by Clunes’s casting. For decades, the actor has been widely associated with warm roles, most notably the gruff but lovable GP in Doc Martin. That familiarity functions almost as a comfort blanket: audiences are instinctively reassured by his presence. Here, though, as Edwards’s predatory behaviour becomes more overt, the effect is deliberately upsetting – as though the blanket is fraying and unravelling before our eyes. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/PowerThe-Downfall-of-Huw-Edwards-wtannouncement-imageEpisodicMT00010v2MidresSTRICT-EMBARGO-WEDNESDAY-7TH-JANUARY8PM-aee1ad3.jpg" width="4500" height="2967" alt="Martin Clunes as Huw Edwards in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, sat at a newsdesk, wearing a suit." title="POWER: THE DOWNFALL OF HUW EDWARDS (w/t) - STRICT EMBARGO - WED" /> Edwards himself, of course, was once the embodiment of trust, something we’re reminded of in a recreation of his announcement of the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. Seeing a similarly recognisable figure in the form of Clunes deliver that moment only sharpens the point about how quickly such faith can shatter. It’s a theme that’s returned to when, in a striking dramatic device, Edwards is shown once again seated behind the news desk - only this time, he’s reading a report about his own conviction. It’s a narrative flight of fancy but an effective one: a bracing reminder of the drama’s chief preoccupation with the gulf that can exist between public persona and private reality. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards will air on Tuesday 24 March at 9pm on 5. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Carol Vorderman set to front multiple daytime shows in big TV channel takeover
Vorderman will guest star on 5's daytime shows on Tuesday.
Carol Vorderman is set to take over 5’s daytime TV programming tomorrow (Tuesday 17 March). The former Countdown host, who is one of the captains on 5’s gameshow Celebrity Puzzling alongside Sally Lindsay and host Jeremy Vine, will appear as a guest star on the channel’s daytime shows between 9am and 3pm, taking part in conversations tailored to each programme. Vorderman will begin the day on Jeremy Vine’s self-titled TV show, before joining Storm Huntley and Alexis Conran on their news programme, Storm & Alexis. Finally, she will appear alongside Vanessa Feltz’s self-titled Show, Vanessa. Her appearances will celebrate her return to 5 in her role as team captain on Celebrity Puzzling, which is set to land back on our screens for season 2 on Monday 23 February at 7pm. Throughout the day on Tuesday, Carol will also be sharing her love of puzzles and giving viewers a taste of what they can expect to see on the show. Vorderman said in a statement: "I’m really looking forward to spending the day across 5’s daytime shows. It will be great to chat about everything from the issues of the day to real life stories and consumer topics, and of course to share a bit about Celebrity Puzzling." She added: "I love a good puzzle, so I’m excited to give viewers a taste of what’s coming." Federico Ruiz, Commissioner for Daytime at 5, said: "Carol is a broadcasting powerhouse and we’re really excited to have her taking over our daytime schedule. Each of our shows has its own unique personality and audience, from debate and current affairs to consumer issues and heartfelt stories." He added: "Viewers will get to enjoy her trademark energy and sharp wit all day on 5, probably best to call in sick so you can tune in with no interruptions!" Carol will be appearing on 5’s Daytime line up on Tuesday 17 March, starting at 9:15am on Jeremy Vine. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Martin Clunes transforms into Huw Edwards in new extended first-look trailer for 5 drama
The drama will air as a one-off, feature-length programme on Tuesday 24 March.
Following on from the release of a short teaser earlier this month, the full-length trailer for 5 drama Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards has now been unveiled. The trailer gives us our best look yet at Martin Clunes's (Doc Martin) portrayal of disgraced BBC News presenter Huw Edwards, while also showing us Osian Morgan (Under Salt Marsh) in his key supporting role as 'Ryan'. The trailer sees Morgan's 17-year-old character saying "there's a man who gives us money", while Edwards is told that "Britain has spoken – you are the voice of the nation". The pair are then seen on a video call, with the teenager asking the newsreader what he would like to talk about. "Nothing, show me something instead," Clunes's Edwards replies, as Ryan takes off his top. You can watch the full-length trailer above. After initially being announced as a two-part drama, Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is now a one-off feature length programme, running for two hours, which will air later this month. The synopsis for the TV film reads: "Starring Martin Clunes as Edwards, the series explores the newsreader’s double life as it spirals out of control, leading him to make the greatest announcement of his career – his total exit from public life following his conviction for serious child sexual offences." Alongside Clunes and Morgan, the drama also stars Ben Bishop (Endeavour) and Clare Calbraith (Grace), who play The Sun journalists Ben O'Driscoll and Victoria Newton. For decades, Edwards was one of the most recognisable faces of journalism, and fronted BBC's News at Ten. In 2024, he pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children, and was given a six-month suspended sentence. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards will air on Tuesday 24 March at 9pm on 5. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis star reacts to season 2 twist and "kickass" stunt: "It wasn’t something I expected"
Harper is at the forefront of the action!
*Warning: This article contains spoilers for Ellis season 2 episode 2.* As well as Ellis season 2 continuing to showcase long and winding journeys through various small town investigations, the second episode of the series also features some tense takedown scenes. As Ellis (Sharon D Clarke) and Harper (Andrew Gower) get closer to the truth, it becomes all too clear that DS Malcolm Oliver (John Hollingworth) isn't just a well-meaning fellow police officer that's helping them on the case – but is the perpetrator himself. It's quite the twist but is it one that Gower himself saw coming? When chatting exclusively to Radio Times about the tense final moments of the episode, Gower said: "No [I didn’t see it coming]. I think what’s great is that it makes the viewer, the next time you go into a case – time passes between these cases often – but it really does fuel the trust of the forces that we go into. "I know you should always suspect everybody in a police episode but when you’re getting assistance from fellow detectives, you don’t expect that. So no, it wasn’t something I expected. Again, just great, nuanced writing and the fact that he, John Hollingworth’s character, is caught up in the local community, it shows those complications of police corruption, of childhood trauma as well. To combine those two worlds is a really exciting palette to make a TV show." The scene also shows things getting quite physical as Harper quite literally takes down Oliver. How was it doing something quite different for Ellis? "I don’t know whether it’s for comedy or to make Harper look a bit more kickass but yeah, it’s great," Gower told Radio Times. "We’ve got an amazing stunt team and they seem to be testing Harper’s stunt moves. Whether it’s jumping over bonnets or taking somebody down with a fire extinguisher, it’s great. It’s nice when that stuff pops up in the script because you get to work physically as an actor, as well as all the verbal stuff that we deliver, the police jargon. It’s great to show some physical Harper moves." At the end of that episode, we also see Harper take a bit of a step up in regards to Ellis, allowing her to focus a bit more on Grace while he can clearly handle some of their day-to-day admin. Read more: Ellis season 2 exclusive first-look clip sees beloved detective in hilarious scene with Harper Ellis star reflects on returning to key format feature for season 2: "It’s what makes us unique" While it was a quiet moment between the pair, it's definitely an important one for their dynamic. Speaking about that moment, Gower said: "It’s like in any great relationship, it’s basically saying 'I’ve got you', all of us here are going to be a constant, which I don’t think Ellis expects. Especially not somebody in the shape and form of Harper, right? To almost offer that up. "I thought it was a real beautiful moment but said through action, rather than words. There was no big – Harper likes to monologue at times to Ellis and spout a lot of stuff about the case. But actually, I think his actions in this end scene really speak more volumes than what he says. He tells her to go and that’s it, that's an action as opposed to some grand monologue." Ellis season 2 continues on Tuesday 17 March and Wednesday 18 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
5 finally confirms air date of its Huw Edwards drama starring Doc Martin icon with all-new first-look images
The story of the disgraced BBC presenter is coming to screens later this month.
5 has confirmed when viewers can expect Martin Clunes’s new factual drama about the scandal surrounding BBC presenter Huw Edwards to land on our screens, along with some new images of the series. Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, which has been directed by the BAFTA-winning Michael Samuels and written by Mark Burt (The Trial), will air on Tuesday 24 March at 9pm on 5. Starring the Doc Martin actor as Edwards, the feature-length film follows "the newsreader’s double life as it spirals out of control" before his “total exit from public life following his conviction for serious child sexual offences”, according to the official synopsis. It will also offer a "complex, emotional and nuanced portrait" of the case, and "build on extensive factual research over the past 12 months, including extensive first-hand interviews and co-operation from those at the heart of the scandal and exclusive access to The Sun newspaper’s award-winning investigation into Edwards". <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/03/power-the-downfall-of-huw-edwards-martin-clunes-osian-morgan-f12dcdc.jpg" width="4000" height="1939" alt="Osian Morgan) and Martin Clunes in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, with a splitscreen of their characters talking on mobiles while lying down." title="Osian Morgan) and Martin Clunes in Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards" /> The new images released by 5 show Clunes as Edwards, as well as fellow actors Osian Morgan, Ben Bishop and Clare Calbraith – the latter of whom play The Sun journalists Ben O'Driscoll and Victoria Newton. For decades, Edwards was one of the most recognisable faces of journalism, and fronted BBC's News at Ten. During that time he anchored major national events, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II. But in 2024, Edwards pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children, and was given a six-month suspended sentence. The factual drama is the first collaboration between 5’s factual and scripted commissioning teams. It was first announced back in January, with Ben Frow, chief content officer at 5, saying at the time: "This is an important and shocking story of how a man in a position of power and trust betrayed that status." He continued: "By gaining exclusive access to the key individuals involved and those who investigated the story, we explore the human cost behind the headlines." Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards will air on Tuesday 24 March at 9pm on 5. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
All Creatures Great and Small favourite confirmed for "spectacular" new animal-focused show
Climate - Sustainable contributions within wider content
The series invites viewers to stop, look, listen, and discover the everyday wonders of Britain’s natural world.
A brand new factual series is making its way to 5, following actors Samuel West and Adrian Edmondson head off on weekend adventures to spot and celebrate Britain's beautiful birds. Sam & Ade Go Birding will follow Samuel (All Creatures Great & Small) and Adrian (A Spy Among Friends) on a spectacular birdwatching quest across the British Isles. Birding has been a long-standing passion for West, having recorded his sightings for 20 years and has now seen over 400 British species, and is always eager to add more to his list. As for Edmondson, he's rather bird-curious. Despite living in the countryside for more than two decades, Ade is frustrated not knowing more about the birds around him and now wants to learn with his enthusiastic friend - so long as they can stop for lunch, stay in a nice cottage and have the odd pint along the way. Samuel West shared: "Watching birds is a simple pleasure. At heart, it's an invitation to connect with the natural world. All you need is a desire to look, listen and enjoy. A pair of binoculars helps; a friend to share it with makes it even better (especially when they’re as much fun as Adrian Edmondson). "I’m thrilled that we get to invite the 5 audience along with us on our travels; they've already proved how tasteful and clever they are by liking All Creatures Great and Small so much. Welcome to the gentle art of noticing." Meanwhile, Adrian Edmonson added: "I don’t know how I got to be this old without knowing more about birds. It feels like a huge hole in my education. Sam is going to fill me in. And… we get to go to the pub!" Across three weekend adventures, West and Edmondson will travel to West Cornwall in search of Cornish choughs, waders and transatlantic visitors blown hundreds of miles off course; to North Norfolk, on a wild goose chase for brent and pink-footed geese; and finally, to the Somerset Levels, where they stake out kingfishers, egrets and the elusive bittern. Read more: Chris Packham wants the nation to know the truth - and he hopes his new documentary does just that The Walking Dead icon confirmed for all-new ITV series - and not in a role you would expect The synopsis continues: "Featuring exquisite photography and breathtaking landscapes, the series is as much about friendship as it is about wildlife. Between sightings, Sam and Ade share thoughtful, funny, and moving conversations on everything from obsession and ageing to acting, childhood memories, losing a parent and the geeky hobbies that have captivated them over the years." Kit Morey, commissioning editor at 5 commented: "Sam & Ade Go Birding is one of the most heartwarming pieces of televisual joy I’ve had the good fortune to be part of. Whilst celebrating Britain’s beautiful birdlife, Sam and Ade share their equally beautiful friendship and remind us that it really is the simple things in life that can bring the greatest happiness. "Frank Films have creating something truly special, and at a time when the world feels overwhelming, we hope 5’s audiences will welcome this calm, uplifting and extremely humorous escape." Watch Samuel West in a clip from All Creatures Great & Small below: View Green Video on the source website Sam & Ade Go Birding is coming soon to 5. Add Sam & Ade Go Birding to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Documentaries coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Sharon D Clarke leads the new detective series, but who else stars?
5 detective drama Ellis is back on our screens for more after a hit first season run back in 2024. The new season, which consists of four hour-long episodes, follows DCI Ellis as she’s tasked with investigating failing cases in various British towns, accompanied by her right-hand man, DS Chet Harper. Ellis proved to be a huge hit among fans and critics alike on the release of season 1, with many viewers praising its exploration of racial and sexist bias within the police force, as well as its star-studded cast, which is led by Mr Loverman’s Sharon D Clarke as the way as the witty and smart DCI Ellis. Outlander’s Andrew Gower, meanwhile, appears as her sidekick, DS Harper – but their dynamic is set to shift a little this time around. Speaking about the uncertainty that surrounds Ellis and Harper this season, Gower told Radio Times: "And I think that’s a real clever subtle threat that [series creator] Siân [Ejiwunmi-Le Berre] and the team have put in there. It’s quite a selfish thing for Harper to do but ultimately, without Ellis, his career now doesn’t exist." As is the way with procedural dramas, every pair of episodes of Ellis features a new guest cast, with popular stars from various British dramas set to be recognised. But who stars in the new season of Ellis? Read on to find out more about the season 2 cast of the 5 drama, as well as who starred throughout season 1. Ellis season 2 cast: Full list of characters and actors in Channel 5 drama You can find the main cast for Ellis below, but scroll on to find out more about the characters and where you may have seen the actors previously. If you want to know more about the guest casts for each episode, scroll further to find out. Sharon D Clarke as DCI Ellis Andrew Gower as DS Chet Harper Allison Harding as ACC Alison Leighton Charlotte McCurry as DC Kate Trent Sharon D Clarke as DCI Ellis Who is DCI Ellis? Hailing from London, Ellis is one of the top murder detectives, and so, in order to use her expertise, she is parachuted into various towns around the Peak District in order to help find perpetrators. Often overlooked and dismissed because of her age and race, Ellis remains determined in her job and using her smarts to get to the bottom of these difficult cases. Speaking about her role, Clarke said: "This woman has had to have a real strength of character. She has to be able to just concentrate on the case and not deal with any crap that’s happening around her. Because not only is that happening in the station, but it’s happening in life." What else has Sharon D Clarke been in? Clarke is a three-time Olivier Award winner and is known for various stage roles, but in terms of TV, is best known for her role as Lola Griffin in Holby City and as Grace O'Brien in Doctor Who. More recently, she has starred in Lost Boys and Fairies, Showtrial and Mr Loverman. On the big screen, Clarke has starred in Rocketman, Rocks and Red, White and Royal Blue. Andrew Gower as DS Chet Harper Who is DS Chet Harper? A DS in Hanmore station that Ellis meets in the first episode of the first season, Harper has always stayed in the same place around the same people – that is until he meets Ellis, and he starts to learn how to be a better detective. Together, they travel around the Peak District, but aren't always met with open arms. Describing the relationship between Harper and Ellis, Gower says: "They don’t know how much they need each other until it becomes very obvious. I think it’s master and apprentice, but I also think they’re completely different people. We always said Harper asks the questions that Ellis doesn’t want to ask." What else has Andrew Gower been in? Gower is known for his role as Cutler in Being Human, as Prince Charles Stuart in Outlander and as Rupert Parker in Miss Scarlet and the Duke. More recently, Gower has starred in You season 4 and Carnival Row. Charlotte McCurry as DC Kate Trent Who is DC Kate Trent? We last saw Kate in season 1 and now, she's working closer with Ellis and Harper on their cases. Some time has passed since we last saw her and now, she's pregnant, much to the surprise of Harper especially. What else has Charlotte McCurry been in? The Irish actress has starred in Leonard and Hungry Paul, Dalgliesh and Titanic Sinks Tonight, as well as having featured in Say Nothing, World on Fire and Hope Street. Allison Harding as ACC Alison Leighton Who is ACC Alison Leighton? Ellis's boss, Alison is the one to first call on the detective to go to Hanmore in the first episode to help them in their case. She's the one who ultimately decides where Ellis should go next. What else has Allison Harding been in? Harding has featured in Nova Jones, The Bill, London's Burning and as part of the ensemble in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. Ellis season 2 episode 1 and 2 guest stars John Hollingworth as DS Malcolm Oliver Sasha Desouza-Willock as PC Suravi Kareem Joel Morris as Joseph Ward James Doran as Peter Barron Kirsty Bushell as Natasha Scope Hannah Chinn as Avery Barron Niamh Blackshaw as Jade Bell Cariad Lloyd as Pippa Ellerson Keir Charles as Chris Ellerson Sonny Walker as Kelvin Jones Elliot Douglas as Archie Ellerson Kyle Ndukuba as Bola Ladipo Faolan Morgan as Landlord Ellis season 2 episode 3 and 4 guest stars Mark Addy as Elliot Quinn Dorothea Myer-Bennett as Lucy Quinn Matilda Freeman as Mackenzie Quinn Lisa Ambalavanar as Abi Marshall Stephen Tompkinson as DCI Chalmers Sonny Ashbourne Serkis as Joshua Quinn Judy Flynn as Wendy Pyke Jack Bandeira as Tim Selby Natalia Kostrzewa as Ludmilla Nowak Sophie Stanton as Tina Marshall Florian Rafuna as Christian Kalonas Julia Krynke as Celina Pusch Karyna Khymchuk as Katja Vogel Caroline O’Neill as Rosie Watts Ellis season 1 guest stars Ellis episode 1 guest stars Freya Hannan-Mills (The Cuckoo) as Maggie Bradley - a teenage girl whose boyfriend, Rowan, is found dead and has disappeared Kaye Wragg (Holby City) as Linda Bradley - Maggie's mother who is working tirelessly to find her daughter Michael Wildman (Baby Reindeer) as Stephen Mason - Maggie's stepfather and Linda's partner who is quickly suspected by local police Brian Markey (Cycle) as Charles 'Carlos' Braine - a bartender at the local pub Chris Reilly (Industry) as DCI Jim Belmont - the local Hanmore DCI who doesn't take well to Ellis coming in to help the investigation Daire Scully as Rowan Edwards - the 18-year-old who is found dead and is the son of an ex-MP Catherine Walker (The Clinic) as Louise Edwards - an ex-MP and influential in Hanmore, Louise demands answers about her son's death Wayne Foskett (Game of Thrones) as Michael Edwards - Rowan's father and Louise's husband Tom McKay (Devils) as Eric Mercer - Beau's father who accompanies her when she's being interviewed Conor Sánchez (Inspector Ellis) as Aaron Kelly - one of Rowan's friends and part of his close-knit swimming team Beau Gadsdon (The Crown) as Amy Mercer - another of Rowan's friends and swim team members Tallulah Evans (White Lines) as Carrie Booth - another of Rowan's friends and swim team members Charlotte McCurry (Three Families) as DC Kate Trent - one of the local officers who is helping Ellis on the case Noa Baurain as Rain Bradley - Maggie's sister who is struggling with problems of her own Barry O’Connor (Irish Crime) as Peter Kelly - Aaron's father and swim team coach Ellis episode 2 guest stars Sam Marks (Litvinenko) as DI Jamie Morrison - one of the local detectives who is indifferent to his fellow colleague's disappearance Aoibhéann McCann (Blue Lights) as DC Leah Thompson - a fellow female detective at the local station who Ellis turns to for more information William Travis (Where the Heart is) as Sgt Frank Landry - a local officer investigating Jenny's disappearance Stephanie Levi-John (The Spanish Princess) as Naomi McKeith - a friend of Jenny's who works at the local hospital Kirsten Foster (Rain Dogs) as CSI Christine Bennett - one of the crime scene investigators Jonathan Harden (Blue Lights) as Adam Reid - Jenny's husband who senses something is amiss in his wife's case Michael McCloskey-Ooi as Mark Reid - a local young man who has connections to the case Tim Dutton (The Crown) as DCI Hain - one of the other investigating officers on the case Paul Mallon (Derry Girls) as Tim Jones - a local conspiracy theorist Orla Charlton (On Home Ground) as Carla Duffy - an influential figure in the local area Fionn Ó Loingsigh (Witness Number 3) as Curtis Keogh - a drug dealer in the area Jenny Kavanagh as Jenny Rawler - the officer at the centre of the case who has disappeared but was only days away from submitting a complaint of bullying against her colleagues Ellis episode 3 guest stars Amanda Drew (EastEnders) as DCI Val Cotton - the local DCI in the village of Brindleton who surprises Ellis and Harper with a warm welcome Josh Bolt (Masters of the Air) as DI Archie Dent - Cotton's right-hand man who is also helping in the investigation Michael Simkins (The Iron Lady) as Gerry Rees-Mortimer - the father of Rachel, one of the honeymooners who disappeared Rina Mahoney (Mary & George) as Lydia Green - a local person who takes an interest in the disappearance case Charlie de Melo (Coronation Street) as Leo Braxton - a local gastro pub owner and street food businessman Charley Webb (Emmerdale) as Abbie Summerfield - one of Rachel's old friends who has inherited her parents' local land for motocross Mark Field (Culprits) as Kane Harrison - Abbie's partner who helps run their motocross business Harry Marcus (Poldark) as Rory Summerfield - Rachel's brother who is always on his phone Shanaya Rafaat (Inspector Lewis) as Soraya Mansoori Jade Matthew (Judy) as Rachel Hoffman - a missing local woman who was last seen with her new husband Tama Matheson (Heartbeat) as Oz Hoffman - the new husband of Rachel who was being introduced to her local friends when they went missing Richard Sherwood (Hope Street) as Alex Scanlan - an ex-boyfriend of Rachel's David Sterne as Foster Lang - a local old man and ex-teacher who has dementia Ellis season 2 begins on Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis season 2: Release date and latest news
Sharon D Clarke will be returning to our screens as the titular detective.
5's Ellis is returning for season 2 this week and that means that fans have four brand new episodes to look forward to. Unlike the first season's run of three feature-length episodes, we're now getting two two-part instalments, which will be released across a couple of weeks. That means this week will be seeing one case unfold and next, we're set to go on a whole other investigation. The new season sees the return of Sharon D Clarke and Andrew Gower, who are reprising their lead roles as DCI Ellis and DS Harper respectively. As well as taking on a variety of new cases throughout towns in the north of England, the pair are set to face a new "uncertain" dynamic this time around with the progression of Ellis's relationship with her daughter, Grace. Chatting to Radio Times about it, Gower said: "A threat to that happening and the relationship ending is kind of the uncertainty about Grace – where’s that going to leave Ellis? And I think that’s a real clever subtle threat that [series creator] Siân [Ejiwunmi-Le Berre] and the team have put in there. It’s quite a selfish thing for Harper to do but ultimately, without Ellis, his career now doesn’t exist." The detective drama quickly proved to be a hit for 5 upon its season 1 release, not least because of a standout performance from Clarke, who brought the smart and witty detective to life. But when will new season 2 episodes of Ellis air and who will star? Read on for everything you need to know about the second season. Ellis season 2 release date The first episode of the new season will air on 5 at 9pm on Tuesday 10 March, while the second instalment will follow just one day after on Wednesday 11 March. The remaining two episodes will then follow the following week on Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 March. On the announcement of Ellis being renewed for season 2, Paul Testar, commissioning editor for scripted at 5, said: “Following the huge success of the first series of Ellis, we are thrilled for it to return with the brilliant Sharon D Clarke and Andrew Gower reprising their roles. We can’t wait to bring the detective duo back to the 5 audience next year”. Acorn Media Enterprises (Acorn TV) also commented: “Ellis was an instant fan-favourite for the Acorn TV audience and met with rave reviews from top critics for its elevated and smart storytelling brought to life by the incomparable Sharon D Clarke and Andrew Gower. We could not be more excited to dive in on a second season of unpredictable, edge-of-your-seat cases with this dynamic pair.” What will happen in Ellis season 2? Each episode of Ellis sees a new guest cast and new case unfold for Ellis (Clarke) and Harper (Gower) to get to the bottom of. According to 5, Ellis will "once again follow the DCI, a tenacious cop who, along with her right-hand man DS Harper, is parachuted into failing investigations across the north of England". The synopsis for the new season 2 episodes reads: "Fresh from her victories in series 1, DCI Ellis is once again parachuted into failing cases across the north of England. With Harper at her side, she faces a new wave of fractured communities and suspicious deaths that test not only her forensic brilliance but her resilience. "The series takes them from a rural village, where the suspicious death of a beloved community leader exposes long-nursed resentments, to the industrial shadow of a stone works, where the death of a young woman reveals a hidden network of coercion and exploitation. Every case peels back layers of silence, ambition, and betrayal." It's clear, then, that the pair would continue to venture to different towns across the UK to help local police forces with their own perplexing cases, and we'll undoubtedly continue to see how their own working partnership blossoms the more they know each other. Speaking to Radio Times about why keeping that format of UK regional travel in is so important, Gower said: "That was a big appeal for us signing onto the project so to stay true to what makes Ellis unique, that sort of stuff is what makes the show unique. "I think season 1 is always establishing the show anyway so to build from that, to make it more cinematic, make the stories darker but keep the lightness and brevity to it that makes the show unique … obviously with Sharon D Clarke at the helm, it’s always going to be unique in its sense." Who star in Ellis season 2? Sharon D Clarke and Andrew Gower are reprising their leading roles as DCI Ellis and DS Harper. The only other recurring character in the series is Ellis's boss ACC Alison Leighton (Allison Harding), who also returns for season 2. As for other cast members, the full list of confirmed season 2 cast is as follows. Sharon D Clarke as DCI Ellis Andrew Gower as DS Chet Harper Charlotte McCurry as DC Kate Trent Episodes 1 and 2 cast Allison Harding as ACC Alison Leighton John Hollingworth as DS Malcolm Oliver Sasha Desouza-Willock as PC Suravi Kareem Joel Morris as Joseph Ward James Doran as Peter Barron Kirsty Bushell as Natasha Scope Hannah Chinn as Avery Barron Niamh Blackshaw as Jade Bell Cariad Lloyd as Pippa Ellerson Keir Charles as Chris Ellerson Sonny Walker as Kelvin Jones Elliot Douglas as Archie Ellerson Kyle Ndukuba as Bola Ladipo Faolan Morgan as Landlord Episodes 3 and 4 cast Mark Addy as Elliot Quinn Dorothea Myer-Bennett as Lucy Quinn Matilda Freeman as Mackenzie Quinn Lisa Ambalavanar as Abi Marshall Stephen Tompkinson as DCI Chalmers Sonny Ashbourne Serkis as Joshua Quinn Judy Flynn as Wendy Pyke Jack Bandeira as Tim Selby Natalia Kostrzewa as Ludmilla Nowak Sophie Stanton as Tina Marshall Florian Rafuna as Christian Kalonas Julia Krynke as Celina Pusch Karyna Khymchuk as Katja Vogel Caroline O’Neill as Rosie Watts Allison Harding as ACC Alison Leighton Ellis season 2 trailer You can watch the trailer for Ellis season 2 below. View Green Video on the source website Ellis season 2 begins on Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis star teases "uncertain" new character dynamic – and what it means for the show’s leads
Are Ellis and Harper going to be alright in season 2?
Throughout the first season of Ellis, Sharon D Clarke's titular character kept clasping her phone close and we eventually saw that in the final episode, she was overjoyed that her daughter Grace texted her to arrange a call. Well, in this new second season, it appears as though their mother-daughter relationship is only going from strength to strength. While it's lovely to see, it's also new ground for Ellis and Harper (Andrew Gower) to navigate. Speaking to Radio Times about the lead's changing dynamic for season 2, Gower revealed: "I think they’ve developed their language. There’s a lot said without speaking, there’s a lot of looks between them, that shorthand has become stronger. But also, I think, it's interesting that with Grace and Ellis, not that Harper sees that as a threat but ultimately, he’s gone all in. "If it was a game of poker, he’s laid out all his cards like, 'Ellis, I’m in. I’ve given up the station I know, the life I know and I’ve got my life in a suitcase and I want to be into this'." He went on: "A threat to that happening and the relationship ending is kind of the uncertainty about Grace – where’s that going to leave Ellis? And I think that’s a real clever subtle threat that [series creator] Siân [Ejiwunmi-Le Berre] and the team have put in there. It’s quite a selfish thing for Harper to do but ultimately, without Ellis, his career now doesn’t exist. "He’s got so much to learn and the experience that Ellis has – working in London and on a plethora of cases that Harper hasn’t experienced yet. It’s great to pick up where they’re comfortable with each other but there’s still that threat of ‘Is this going to be forever?’ or ‘Does Ellis need Harper as much as Harper needs Ellis?’. Which is such a great dynamic to play." Grace has, of course, always been a looming figure within Ellis's life but where season 1 had a bit of a question mark over her identity and whether she even wanted to talk to Ellis, this season that's replaced with Ellis being more present in Grace's life. As for how that'll manifest within Ellis's career decisions, if at all, we'll just have to wait and see. It's not always been the smoothest of sailing for the leading duo but fans will be pleased to learn that they're on the up in season 2 – and that's a good thing, as there's plenty more crime to investigate. Read more: Call the Midwife finale, The Capture and ITV's Gone overnight ratings revealed after dramatic Sunday night of TV Line of Duty legend's popular crime drama gets future confirmed – and it's bad news The synopsis for the first two episodes reads: "When the body of Peter Barron, a respected local businessman, is discovered in the tiny village of Ashenham, shock quickly turns to suspicion. The local force is out of their depth, and ACC Leighton wastes no time in parachuting in Ellis and Harper. "With her forensic eye, Ellis recognises the situation for what it is: murder. Pushing past the limited resources of the local force and resistance in the community, she’s determined to unearth what really happened." It continues: "The owner of a thriving plant nursery and a well-known philanthropist whose influence reached far throughout the community; Peter was once a beloved figure. However, a recent decision to launch a prison work release scheme has caused outrage. For some, the scheme was a natural continuation of Peter’s charity work, but for others, the idea of criminals integrating into their idyllic community was a step too far. And Peter, previously a unifying presence, found himself at the centre of a divided village with many wanting to see him held accountable." "In Ashenham, long held grievances simmer just beneath the surface, and Ellis is determined to drag them into the open. In the end, one question towers over Ellis's investigation: was Peter killed for his ideals, or does the answer lie in his own circle, among those who knew him best?", the synopsis concludes. Ellis season 2 begins on Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis's unconventional dynamic is the most heartwarming thing about this detective series
We've seen this dynamic before – but season 2 sees Ellis and Harper go to new heights.
The last we saw of Ellis (Sharon D Clarke) and Harper (Andrew Gower) on our screens, they were enjoying a bottle of Jamaican white rum in a small town pub. After an awkward first encounter in Ellis's first episode, the pair went on to reach a genuine working rhythm and by the end of the three-parter, the walls had clearly come down a little bit for them both. Now, we're thankfully back for season 2 and as well as the cases in Ellis remaining gritty and complex, the dynamic between Ellis and Harper continues to be a major draw of this loveable show. It's not exactly reinventing the detective drama wheel to have two leads who seem like complete opposites on paper, have to navigate a stage of awkwardness and eventually, start swapping smiles instead of quips. While not always to that degree, we've certainly seen that dynamic play out in shows like True Detective, Unforgotten, McDonald & Dodds and even, more recently, Lynley. That push-pull in any relationship dynamic is always interesting to see magnified on screen and with Ellis and Harper's union, it started off in a place that many fans didn't really think would grow to be genuine friendship. Waiting in the lobby for Harper to only then see him think that the other white woman in the waiting area was Ellis was the kind of painful moment that deserved to be shown, visualising the kinds of micro-aggressions that Black women often face in the workplace. But with plenty of apology, well-meaning attitude and a similar dedication to the jobs at hand, any initial discomfort was eased over the course of the first series. I, for one, couldn't have quite imagined that now we'd be at the point where they'd be gently ribbing one another about The Godfather while driving to crime scenes, Harper would take such a vested interest in Ellis's daughter Grace or even that he'd be stepping up in order to allow Ellis to take a moment of respite. But hey, here we are – and it's a lovely thing to see. This season of Ellis sees the pair continue to navigate their way through various UK towns, with the first couple of episodes centring on the murder of a local businessmen and philanthropist, who was quite the local figure and whose death garners leaps of attention. The second batch of episodes takes us to the village of Elmsly where a university student is found dead, crushed by scaffolding at a local construction firm. Once again, the series deals with some intricate themes such as migration, criminal reform and corruption being just a few of the wider conversations that Ellis gets into. However, you do need that light with any darkness and at the end of the tunnel of these knotty episodes (which can often be full of less-than-pleasant criminal subject matter), the shining beacon remains to be our series leads. While the show continues to lean into the serious-comedic dynamic we have flourishing between Ellis and Harper, this is still very much a series that's focussed on Ellis. To have a detective drama led by a Black woman shouldn't be such a rare sight on TV these days but unfortunately, it is. And for that reason, there's no understating just how important it is that Ellis had a stellar first run of episodes, got picked up for another season and is back on our screens for more. In a testy TV landscape where some value tried-and-tested formats, it's a breath of fresh air to see Ellis continue and for the main character to forge ahead as her unashamed self. In a similar way in season 2, we also see Harper come more into his own. It's clear that the DS really looks up to Ellis and admires her work – he wouldn't have upended his career to go and follow her around the country otherwise. There's something really rather sweet seeing their intergenerational dynamic, with Harper also seemingly understanding the patois that Ellis regularly uses. In the space between when we've seen them last to now, it's clear that they've continued to forge ahead in their professional partnership and friendship. Perhaps some would've liked to see that smooth itself out within the episodes, but I appreciate the offscreen shorthand that the pair have formed. At the end of the day, this season underlines that they're both there to do their jobs, with policing at the centre of their worlds. It's always nice to have a laugh and a joke with a colleague too though and here, we have the kind of pairing that makes Ellis not just a gripping cop show, but also a drama that clearly has a lot of heart in it too. Ellis season 2 begins on Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis star reflects on returning to key format feature for season 2: "It’s what makes us unique"
The 5 detective drama returns to our screens this week.
With just three episodes making up Ellis's first season, the 5 detective drama is now back for more with season 2. As well as the show digging into some more grisly cases, the format of Ellis remains the same as we follow the titular detective (Sharon D Clarke) and DS Harper (Andrew Gower) as they continue to make their way around the country for new investigations. That cross-country element to the series has always been an important part of the job for actors Clarke and Gower, being something they were keen to continue in the show's second outing. Thankfully, that format has remained intact and it's been an "amazing" element to return to, Gower told Radio Times. In an exclusive chat ahead of the release of season 2, Gower reflected on the show continuing to showcase lesser-known pockets of the UK. He said: "That was a big appeal for us signing onto the project so to stay true to what makes Ellis unique, that sort of stuff is what makes the show unique. "I think season 1 is always establishing the show anyway so to build from that, to make it more cinematic, make the stories darker but keep the lightness and brevity to it that makes the show unique … obviously with Sharon D Clarke at the helm, it’s always going to be unique in its sense." He added: "But ultimately, I think, it’s always great when you get a second series, to build on what was good about the show. That was why we signed on and that is where we want to keep going with it." Now, fans will be treated to a four-part run of season 2 episodes, which will see Ellis and Harper once again back on the road and looking into all things related to local communities, crime and more. With the first season landing on screens in 2024, fans haven't had to wait too long for new cases and episodes. But it's safe to say that the first batch of episodes went down a treat with viewers, who clearly enjoyed Ellis enough for it to be renewed for season 2. Read more: Line of Duty legend's popular crime drama gets future confirmed – and it's bad news The Capture season 3 episode 2 first look as writer breaks down thrilling twist – and teases what next for Rachel Carey Chatting to Radio Times about the reaction to season 1, Gower remarked that it was "just amazing, to be honest". He continued: "I think, in this day and age, when there’s recession in the world and stuff, the arts is the first thing to get hit, right? "I said to Sharon after season 1, if we were to get a second season, that would mean so much with everything going on. And to get that white flag raised and say that we’re going again was just incredible." He added: "I’ve been lucky enough for 16 years to jump on shows and to be a part of so many worlds, but there is definitely something really special when I go back home or when I’ll be out and about in London, when Ellis came out, it seemed to really strike a chord with people, which is great. "Because without the audience, there is no second series so it was great to get the green light.” Ellis season 2 begins on Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Ellis season 2 exclusive first-look clip sees beloved detective in hilarious scene with Harper
Ellis and Harper's dynamic continues to be a playful one.
One of the main draws of the first season of Ellis was not just the exploration of English towns, gritty crimes on show and Sharon D Clarke's stellar leading role, but it was also seeing how the relationship between her and Harper (Andrew Gower) developed over the episodes. From strangers to colleagues who admire each other's way of working, their unlikely bond only continues to grow in this upcoming season of Ellis, it seems. Radio Times has an exclusive first look at season 2 for you – and film buffs be warned, as Harper doesn't seem to know about one of the all-time classic movies. In the clip (which you can watch above), Ellis and Harper are on their way to a crime scene in Ellis's car once again. Harper remarks about one of the points of contention in the case – that someone stuck around to wash some sheets, an act that he admits is bold. "It's a Godfather move," Ellis says but it's quickly evident that Harper is none the wiser to the cinematic reference. While Ellis gently digs into Harper for never having seen The Godfather, Harper does say that it's on his to-watch list. Ellis maps out the central premise of the film, saying that it's all about "how to kill a man in public and get away with it", before Harper jokingly asks if they're now looking for a "middle-aged film buff", to which Ellis says with a smile: "You are looking for a slap, DS." If there's one thing we can count on in this series, it's our fair share of dark crimes but also a touch of humour thrown in for good measure by our two detective leads. Read more: The Handmaid’s Tale sequel unveils moody first-look trailer with returning and new cast Outlander exec talks season 8 return for two popular characters: "It just felt fitting" The synopsis for the new episodes reads: "Fresh from her victories in series 1, DCI Ellis is once again parachuted into failing cases across the north of England. With Harper at her side, she faces a new wave of fractured communities and suspicious deaths that test not only her forensic brilliance but her resilience. "The series takes them from a rural village, where the suspicious death of a beloved community leader exposes long-nursed resentments, to the industrial shadow of a stone works, where the death of a young woman reveals a hidden network of coercion and exploitation. Every case peels back layers of silence, ambition, and betrayal." Ellis season 2 begins on Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March at 9pm on 5. Add Ellis to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.