Karen Pirie confirmed for season 2 of ITV detective drama

detective drama Karen Piri A second season has been confirmed for ITV.

The series was inspired by the novels by Val McDermid, which have been adapted for television by Emer Kenny, who has also written for Save Me, Harlots and EastEnders.

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Lauren Lyle, who appeared in the BBC series Vigil, returns as lead Karen Pirie, the second series following McDermid’s second novel, A Darker Domain.

It will see Detective Karen reopen her investigation into the unsolved 1985 kidnapping of a wealthy young heiress and her baby son.

Lyle said: “I’m delighted that we’re going to continue the life of our fearless young detective, Karen Peary, and of course her ass.

“I knew early on how the show was going behind the scenes, so it’s great to see audiences wanting more. It’s been a creative honor to work alongside Emer Kenny as the backbone of Val McDermid’s story, and the first season was incredible. Believe is an exciting way to build an original character that we’ve never seen before.

“I’m looking forward to getting the gang back together and finally being able to answer the question: ‘Will there be a second season, please?’ ‘Oh, yes.'”

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Karen Pirie’s first season was a smash hit, drawing 6.6 million viewers and averaging 5.9 million viewers over its run.

The second season will start filming in Scotland in early 2024, with some scenes also shot in Italy.

Writer Kenny said: “Karen Peary’s first season was a true love story, so it’s great to have such an amazing response from the audience. The response means we’re being asked to do more and we’re happy to Promised – part of the second book is set in Tuscany and we all loved the trip!

“Thank you to everyone who watched our show and to ITV for ordering a second run. We will try to bring you something refreshing and engaging (with lovely Italian scenery).”

McDermid, whose books have sold more than 17 million copies worldwide, said: “I know the millions of viewers around the world who loved Karen Peary’s first series will be as thrilled by this news as I am. I Can’t wait to see how the team brings the next book, A Darker Domain, to life!”