ITV crime drama Karen Pirie is set to return for a third series, with Lauren Lyle reprising her role as the sharp-witted Scottish detective. The upcoming six-part series will be based on The Skeleton Road, the third novel in Val McDermid's bestselling crime series, and will see Karen take on one of her most challenging investigations yet.
Filming and production details
Produced by World Productions, filming is due to begin next year, with acclaimed Scottish screenwriter Gillian Roger Park taking charge of the adaptation. The announcement follows the success of the second series, which attracted an average of 5.3 million viewers on ITV and STV last year, reaching a peak of 5.6 million. It was also streamed 11 million times across ITVX and STV Player.
Huw Kennair Jones, ITV's commissioning editor, said: "We're thrilled to be returning to Karen Pirie and Lauren Lyle's award-winning performance in what promises to be another brilliant series. Based on Val McDermid's bestselling book, Gillian has woven a compelling story that will delight Karen's many fans."
"With the fantastic team at World Productions producing, the ITV and ITVX audience are in for a gripping drama."
Plot of the new series
The new series will begin with a disturbing discovery in Edinburgh, where human remains are found concealed in the roof of an abandoned building. Detective Inspector Karen soon discovers the victim escaped the conflict in the Balkans during the 1990s and sought refuge in Scotland, where he married a woman who has since become a famous author.
As the case attracts unwanted attention, Karen finds herself caught up in a web of dangerous secrets and revenge. With someone seemingly determined to deliver their own version of justice, the detective must uncover the truth before another life is lost.
Cast and crew reactions
Lauren Lyle, known for her roles in Outlander and Toxic Town, first appeared as Karen in 2022. The character has since become known for her relentless pursuit of justice, quick wit and signature Doc Martens. Lyle will also take on an executive producer role for the third series.
Speaking about the upcoming series, she said: "Playing Karen Pirie has become one of the most delicious thrills of my career and knowing that people of the world want more of her and her bumbag is an absolute honour!"
"With the added joy of getting to put my Executive Producer hat on for season 3, I can finally, much like Karen, whip all those higher up's in to shape."
The 33-year-old added: "In all seriousness, I'm so grateful to be bringing more Karen Pirie to our screens. Season 3 feels even more elevated, with an even wilder story full of thrills, twists, and of course, plenty of eye rolls."
Author Val McDermid, who will executive produce alongside Lyle, spoke about her excitement for her novel The Skeleton Road being brought to screen. She said: "I'm thrilled to hear that plans are so far advanced for Karen Pirie series three. The Skeleton Road is a favourite with many readers, so it'll be particularly exciting to see it adapted."
"I feel very privileged to have such a talented team bringing my books to a wider audience and I can't wait to see what they make of it."
Karen Pirie will air on ITV and STV and be available for streaming on ITVX and STV Player.
