The BBC has recommissioned popular school-based drama Waterloo Road for two further series, each comprising eight hour-long episodes. Filming of the next series will begin in Greater Manchester later this year, produced by Rope Ladder Fiction and Wall to Wall North.
Since its reboot in 2023, the programme has tackled storylines including the cost-of-living crisis, coercive control, neurodivergence, and workplace politics. The series, which originally ran for ten series, saw a resurgence on iPlayer during lockdown, prompting the revival. It remains one of iPlayer's top-performing titles among viewers under 35.
The new commissions will support talent development in the North of England, building on existing schemes that have provided over 40 paid entry-level positions since 2022. The show has launched the careers of actors including Jenna Coleman, Regé-Jean Page, and Phoebe Dynevor.
Comedian Jon Richardson joins the cast next month as media studies teacher, following Jason Manford's earlier appearance as head teacher Steve Savage. Original cast members Adam Thomas, Angela Griffin, Katie Griffiths, Chelsee Healey, and Lauren Drummond have returned, with Jason Merrells featuring as a full-time cast member.
Cameron Roach, executive producer, said the commission brings total episodes since relaunch to seventy hours, calling it 'a huge achievement'. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, added that fans 'don't have long to wait' for the next series, set to premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One next month.
