Netflix has confirmed that the acclaimed detective drama Dept. Q will return for a second series, following its debut in 2025. The show, set in Edinburgh, Scotland, has been praised by viewers as a 'refreshing gem' and has garnered a perfect 10/10 rating from over 21,000 users on IMDb.
What Is Dept. Q About?
The series follows DCI Carl Morck, a disgraced but brilliant and flawed detective who is exiled to a cold case unit in Edinburgh. He teams up with a group of misfit officers, including a Syrian asylum seeker and a traumatised admin clerk. Their first case involves the disappearance of lawyer Merritt Lingard, who was kidnapped four years earlier. The team must uncover the truth while navigating personal traumas and a struggling police force.
Created by Scott Frank and Chandni Lakhani for Netflix, the show stars Matthew Goode, Chloe Pirrie, Kelly Macdonald, Alexej Manvelov, and Shirley Henderson. Critics have compared it to Slow Horses, the Apple TV+ series starring Gary Oldman, for its darkly comic tone and subversive storytelling.
Fan and Critical Reception
One Google reviewer described Dept. Q as 'a refreshing gem,' adding: 'It captivates from start to finish. This detective series masterfully combines gripping storytelling with stellar performances, making it a must-watch for any crime drama enthusiast.' Another fan compared it to Slow Horses, calling it 'a deliciously subversive drama with a darkly comic fast-talking script, grimy colour-saturated visuals with lashings of bloodshed.'
On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds a 88% audience score and an 84% critics rating. The critics' consensus reads: 'In a sea of generic crime dramas, Dept. Q stakes its claim amongst the thrilling, enthralling, and sublime thanks to a winning cast and veteran creative Scott Frank.' One reviewer highlighted Matthew Goode's performance, stating it 'subtly nods to the analytical spirit of Doctor House, lending his character an intensity and multifaceted wit that feels both familiar and innovative.'
Second Series Details
Rob Bullock, executive producer at Left Bank Pictures, spoke about the upcoming second series. He said: 'This season, Carl and his band of misfits tackle a terrible crime hidden in the highest echelons of Scottish society. It is a story for our times: rich and powerful people who believe they are above the law. Carl, of course, knows otherwise. It’s a joy to be working with master storyteller Scott Frank once again, along with the rest of team dolally. We applaud Netflix’s courage for letting them loose once again.'
Production on the second series is currently underway. Dept. Q is available to stream on Netflix now.
