Channel 4's acclaimed detective drama Patience has made a triumphant return to screens this month, but with a significant change to its line-up. The second series, which continues to film in the historic city of York, welcomes a new face to the Yorkshire Police force following the departure of a central character from the first season.
A New Detective Arrives in York
The show, which became one of Channel 4's standout hits of 2024, follows the unique perspective of Patience Evans (Ella Maisy Purvis), a young autistic woman working in the police criminal records department. Series two sees her established as a vital part of the team, but her carefully built routine is disrupted. DI Bea Metcalf, portrayed by Laura Fraser in the first series, has gone on leave and will not be returning, creating a void in the department's dynamic.
Stepping into that void is DI Frankie Monroe, played by the acclaimed actress Jessica Hynes. This new character brings a starkly different management style, setting up immediate conflict. Ella Maisy Purvis, who plays Patience, explained the shift: "Patience is fuelled by routine and structure. Frankie bursts in and ironically has no patience for her. She is harsh and somewhat brutal." However, this defiance leads to an unexpected mutual respect as Frankie learns that Patience cannot be easily dismissed.
Meet the Returning and New Cast Members
Ella Maisy Purvis reprises her leading role as Patience Evans. At the start of the new series, Patience is grappling with the mystery of numbers left by her mother, while her confidence is shaken by the news that DI Metcalf is not coming back. Purvis noted her character is in "quiet turmoil."
Jessica Hynes takes on the pivotal new role of DI Frankie Monroe. Known for her roles in Spaced, W1A, and The Royle Family, Hynes described her character's initial view of Patience: "Patience is a nuisance and a liability. She's not a trained police officer and has no business working on cases."
The series also sees the return of popular supporting characters. Nathan Welsh is back as DS Jake Hunter, whose relationship with Patience has evolved into a more sibling-like dynamic. Tom Lewis returns as Patience's love interest, Elliot Scott, promising that this season will "peel back" his internal world. Mark Benton also resumes his role as DCI Calvin Baxter, the commanding officer of the department.
What to Expect in the New Series
The core premise remains: Patience uses her exceptional, detail-oriented mind to assist with major cases from within the records office. The fresh tension introduced by DI Frankie Monroe's brash approach will be a central driving force, testing Patience's resilience and forcing her to advocate for her methods more fiercely.
Fans can expect deeper character development, particularly for Elliot, and the ongoing personal mystery surrounding Patience's mother. The drama continues to blend intricate police procedural elements with a heartfelt and authentic portrayal of its neurodivergent protagonist.
Patience series two continues on Channel 4 at 9pm on Wednesday nights.
