The Hardacres has delivered new first-look photos for season 2 – with an exciting update about when the latest instalment will be released.

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The 5 drama, based on the novel series by C L Skelton, follows the rags-to-riches story of the titular family as they navigate the social scene of the 1890s.

New first-look images show that things are about to change for the family, with fresh additions to the cast bringing added drama to proceedings.

It’s also been confirmed the show is slated to return to our screens this spring.

Shannon Lavelle as Liza, Claire Cooper as Mary and Julie Graham as Ma in The Hardacres
Shannon Lavelle as Liza, Claire Cooper as Mary and Julie Graham as Ma in The Hardacres. 5

In first-look photos of season 2, the Hardacres are still finding their feet after rising from poverty to luxurious wealth, and as they head into 1895, the world around them continues to change.

The official synopsis shares that the Hardacres will be "on the brink of transformation" with new modern inventions like electricity impacting their day-to-day lives.

A man in standing in a beige suit, fiddling with an antique projector
Edward Mitchell as Arthur Lewis in The Hardacres. 5

New addition Arthur Lewis (Edward Mitchell) is seen showing off a new film projector in one of the pics, while in another Mary (Claire Cooper) beams proudly as she walks through the streets with a new bicycle.

An older woman, dressed in 19th century black funeral attire, looks stern as she stands by a window
Michele Dotrice as Imelda Hansen in The Hardacres. 5

Meanwhile, Liza (Shannon Lavelle) is mending a broken heart, but is swept away by "a chance encounter with a handsome stranger".

Pictures show her growing close to Captain Blackwood, played by newcomer Niall McNamee, with the pair gazing into each other’s eyes while holding hands.

A woman in a full length pale blue dress, waistcoat, bolero and hat is walking while holding a bicycle. There is a fire behind her
Claire Cooper as Mary in The Hardacres. 5

The official synopsis reads: "Mary and Sam embrace wealth and opportunity, but their children begin forging identities that challenge expectations.

"Mary champions adult education for dock workers, while Sam expands the family business amid a looming recession, uncertain if Joe is ready to succeed him. Determined to prove himself, Joe’s impulsive choices threaten his future.

A man in a red navy uniform is talking to a woman, who has her hair pinned up. They are looking fondly at each other
Niall McNamee as Captain Blackwood and Shannon Lavelle as Liza Hardacre in The Hardacres. 5

"Liza recovering from romantic disappointment, is swept up by a chance encounter with a handsome stranger, while Harry’s plans to abandon school are transformed by an inspiring new tutor."

Continuing, the synopsis adds: "Ma forms an unexpected bond but as some relationships blossom, others are strained.

A smartly-dressed man in a three-piece navy suit stands in a street. He has a beard and longer hair, which he has brushed back away from his face
Liam McMahon as Sam Hardacre. 5

"As tensions rise, Lady Imelda Hansen arrives at the Fitzherberts’ home with a dangerous agenda, forcing the Hardacres to unite or risk losing everything."

The mysterious Lady Imelda will be played by A Very British Scandal's Michele Dotrice, the third new addition to the stacked cast.

The Hardacres season 2’s official release date is yet to be confirmed.

Stream season 1 of The Hardacres on 5 now.

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Authors

Tilly PearceFreelance Writer

Tilly Pearce is a freelance TV journalist whose coverage ranges from reality shows like Love Is Blind to sci-fi shows like Fallout. She is an NCTJ Gold Standard accredited journalist, who has previously worked as Deputy TV Editor (maternity cover) at Digital Spy, and Deputy TV & Showbiz Editor at Daily Express US.

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