The BBC's critically acclaimed Liverpool-based crime saga, This City is Ours, is poised for a dramatic return later this year, with its second series set to introduce a host of new faces and escalating tensions. Among the most notable additions to the cast is Shaun Evans, beloved for his portrayal of the young Endeavour Morse, who will be taking on a starkly different role in this gritty drama.
Fresh Faces and New Villainy
Lead actor James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Michael Kavanagh in the series, has teased significant developments for the upcoming season. Speaking at the Radio Times Covers Party 2026, Nelson-Joyce confirmed that Shaun Evans will be joining the ensemble, bringing what he described as "a bit of villainy to the show" with an "amazing" performance.
Evans is set to portray Ozzie Thompson, a menacing former criminal and old ally of the deceased crime kingpin Ronnie Phelan, played by Sean Bean in the first series. Following his release from prison, Ozzie will be seeking payment from the Phelan family, injecting a new layer of threat into the already volatile dynamics of Liverpool's criminal underworld.
Plot Developments and Returning Conflicts
The second series will pick up the narrative threads mere weeks after the explosive events of the first season's finale. Nelson-Joyce revealed that the storyline begins just "two [or] three weeks" later, with wounds from previous confrontations still very much raw.
A central driving force of the new plot will be the "backlash" following the murder of Colombian drug supplier Ricardo Guzman, who was killed in the first series finale by Michael's lieutenant, Banksey, portrayed by Mike Noble. Nelson-Joyce hinted at Banksey's significant role, stating, "Mike Noble is gonna blow everyone away this season."
One major consequence of Guzman's death will be the arrival of his younger brother, Felipe Guzman, played by Álvaro Morte, famous for his role as The Professor in Money Heist. It is strongly suggested that Felipe will be seeking revenge, raising urgent questions about Banksey's ability to survive his wrath.
Character Arcs and Ensemble Returns
While new threats emerge, existing relationships will also face severe tests. Nelson-Joyce disclosed that his character, Michael, and his lover Diana, played by Hannah Onslow, will begin the second series "in happy town." However, he cautioned that this serenity would be short-lived, as Michael eventually "ruins it," promising further emotional turmoil and dramatic twists.
The returning cast for This City is Ours season two includes a robust ensemble of familiar faces:
- Jack McMullen as the volatile Jamie Phelan
- Hannah Onslow as Diana
- Mike Noble as Banksey
- Julie Graham as Elaine
- Saoirse-Monica Jackson as Cheryl
- Adam Abbou as Freddie
- Laura Aikman as Rachel
- Kevin Harvey as Bobby
- Darci Shaw as Melissa
This combination of returning talent and high-profile new additions like Shaun Evans and Álvaro Morte sets the stage for what promises to be an even more intense and captivating chapter in the story of Liverpool's feuding crime dynasty.
This City is Ours season two is scheduled to premiere later this year on BBC One and iPlayer, continuing the word-of-mouth success that marked its first series as a standout drama for the broadcaster.
