Channel 5's gripping detective drama 'Ellis', which has been praised by some fans as surpassing the beloved series 'Vera', has officially released the trailer for its highly anticipated second series. The broadcaster has confirmed that the new episodes will premiere in just a matter of days, with the first instalments scheduled to air on March 10 and March 11.
A Compelling Premise Returns
The show, which debuted in 2024, stars the formidable Sharon D. Clarke as Detective Chief Inspector Ellis. The central premise follows DCI Ellis and her assistant, DS Chet Harper, portrayed by Andrew Gower, as they are dispatched to assist struggling investigations at various police stations across northern England. Their mission is to unravel complex cases that have stumped local authorities, bringing their unique expertise to bear on each challenging scenario.
Series Two Synopsis and New Challenges
A newly released synopsis for the upcoming series teases: 'Fresh from her victories in series one, DCI Ellis is once again parachuted into failing cases across the north of England. With Harper steadfastly at her side, she confronts a fresh wave of fractured communities and suspicious deaths that rigorously test not only her forensic brilliance but also her personal resilience.'
The narrative will transport viewers from a seemingly tranquil rural village, where the suspicious death of a beloved community leader exposes long-nursed resentments and hidden tensions, to the industrial shadow of a stone works. In this gritty setting, the death of a young woman reveals a clandestine network of coercion and exploitation. Each case meticulously peels back layers of silence, ambition, and betrayal, delving deep into the human psyche.
Trailer Insights and Character Dynamics
The recently dropped trailer offers tantalising glimpses into the new series. In an opening voiceover, DCI Ellis is heard pondering: 'How to kill a man in public and get away with it.' She elaborates with the cryptic observation: 'It's all about hiding the evidence in plain sight.' In a moment highlighting the duo's dynamic, Ellis turns to Harper and remarks: 'It's a Godfather move. Don't tell me you've never seen the Godfather.'
The trailer further hints at the dark themes to come, with the protagonist indicating that a young woman has been killed. Ellis concludes with a powerful monologue: 'Ambition and obsession, corrupting everything around you. We make choices, and when things don't go to plan, you do whatever it takes to fix them. This is a murder investigation, and I am going to do whatever it takes to solve it.'
What Sets 'Ellis' Apart?
Lead writer Sian Ejiwunmi-Lee Berre previously addressed what distinguishes 'Ellis' from similar programmes like 'Vera'. She explained: 'A lot of big detective shows are very site-specific. Whether it’s Death in Paradise, Midsomer Murders, or even Inspector Morse, it’s fundamentally about the place. This is about her. Ellis brings her very specific understanding of how people work to wherever she goes; her mantra is that everything is made different by love, fear, hate, or anger, and she digs into the character of a town.'
Berre elaborated that the changing character in each episode is the town itself – and obviously the people within it – but the town possesses a particular flaw. Sharon D. Clarke added her perspective: 'Most police dramas operate around the station where they have their colleagues and their routines, whatever they are, but they have their community. For Ellis and Harper, it’s just them. And they work with the police station, but they’re always working with different people.' This nomadic, duo-centric approach creates a unique dynamic that focuses intensely on the protagonists' partnership and methodology.
Fan Anticipation and Reception
The announcement of the new series has generated significant excitement among the show's dedicated fanbase. Writing online about the show, one viewer enthusiastically penned: 'Yes! Can't wait to See DCI Ellis.' Another said: 'Love this show. So glad there is going to be a new season.' A third remarked simply: 'Brilliant. Loved this.' Another fan expressed eager impatience, posting: 'When? Can't bloody wait!' This outpouring of support underscores the drama's successful establishment of a loyal following since its debut.
With its compelling characters, intricate plotting, and the magnetic performances of Sharon D. Clarke and Andrew Gower, 'Ellis' series two promises to deliver another riveting chapter of detective work set against the evocative backdrop of northern England. Viewers can mark their calendars for March 10 and 11 to witness DCI Ellis and DS Harper tackle their latest, most daunting cases yet.
