Code of Silence series 2: ITV shares first look at Rose Ayling-Ellis' return in 'gripping thriller' but there's a crucial character missing
There's one crucial character missing, and some new faces
Code of Silence, hailed as “the must-watch thriller of the year”, will be back for a series 2 – but one major character will be missing.
The channel has commissioned new episodes of the Rose Ayling-Ellis drama which first aired in May 2025. Fans (including us) loved the gripping series, and it was only a matter of time before Alison returned for more.
After all, anyone who watched series 1 will know the character was stubborn as a mule. But, miraculously, she always managed to not get killed – despite putting herself in INSANE levels of danger.
Here’s everything we know so far about series 2 of Code of Silence as ITV release a first look at the upcoming thriller.
Is there a Code of Silence series 2?
ITV has now confirmed that there WILL be a series 2 of Code of Silence. Well, it was a no-brainer really… ITV viewers LOVED it, and here’s plenty of potential for more episodes.
We didn’t learn Liam’s exact fate at the end of the series, and it looked like Alison would be embarking on a forensic expert lipreading course. Although, if we’re honest, we’re really not sure she’s cut out for the job… Talk about walking into trouble!
Created and written by Catherine Moulton, critics described the series as “a landmark moment for inclusion and representation” and hailed as “the must-watch thriller of the year”.
ITV Drama Commissioner, Callum Dziedzic, said: “We are unbelievably proud of Code of Silence. It’s been a joy seeing audiences embrace it – especially their love for the skilful, headstrong, and effortlessly loveable Alison.
“Rose brings her to life with real charm and depth, and Catherine’s brilliant concept gave her the perfect world to step into. We can’t wait to share another gripping case, with Alison’s talents and perspective delivering a thriller that’s pulse-pounding, distinctive, and like nothing else on TV.”
What is the plot?
We meet Alison two years on from the events of series 1. She has completed her forensic lip-reading training with the police and is called upon to assist with a high-stakes surveillance operation involving Ruby Dowling. Ruby is a woman caught up in a sophisticated money-laundering syndicate.
The synopsis says: “After being arrested when illicit cash is discovered hidden in her car, Ruby is released on bail back into a dangerous world. She finds herself trapped between police scrutiny and ruthless criminals. When she becomes the victim of a brutal attack, DI James Marsh and his team are left searching for answers.
“Tasked with decoding vital CCTV footage, Alison’s unique expertise becomes crucial to the investigation. But as hidden secrets begin to emerge, the case takes a disturbing turn, revealing threats far closer to home. With loyalties tested, trust beginning to unravel and dangerous criminals closing in, Alison discovers that uncovering the truth may come at a devastating personal cost – and could make her the next target.”
Who’s in the cast?
Rose Ayling-Allis will be returning as Alison in series 2 of Code of Silence. In the first series, the police asked lip reader Alison to use her skills to spy on a dangerous gang… Viewers will know she then fell in love with one of the gang members, and took dangerous risks in a bid to get to the truth.
Series 1 of the six-part drama saw Rose joined by a talented ensemble cast. These included Kieron Moore, Charlotte Ritchie, Andrew Buchan, Nathan Armarkwei Laryea, Joe Absolom, and Andrew Scarborough. However, very few of these names are returning for series 2. Noticeably absent is Kieron Moore’s Liam, who was the central character in series 1, and Alison’s lover interest.
Returning cast members include Black Doves’ Andrew Buchan, Doctor Who’s John Bishop, The Witcher’s Nathan Armarkwei Laryea, and Deaf Funny’s Fifi Garfield.
New cast members include:
- A House of Dynamite’s Jonah Hauer-King.
- Little Disasters’ Jo Joyner.
- Downton Abbey’s Sophie McShera.
- The Crown’s John Hollingworth.
- London Kills’ Sasha Desouza-Willock.
- Emmerdale’s Emily Head.
How many episodes is it?
Following the success of its debut series, the six-part thriller returns with a new, “gripping case”.
Creator and writer Catherine Moulton continues to “explore the worlds of crime, communication and representation through a unique lens”.
Rose Ayling-Ellis will be back as Alison
Talking about the return of her character in Code of Silence series 2, Rose Ayling-Ellis said: “I’m so proud that Code of Silence has been recommissioned. The response to the first series has been incredible. It means so much to be part of a drama that not only keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, but also puts a deaf character at the heart of the story.
“I’m really excited to see where Alison’s journey goes next and to be working again with the wonderful cast, crew and creative team behind the show.”
Meanwhile, creator and writer Catherine Moulton added: “I’m thrilled by the response to the first series of Code of Silence and so excited to be bringing Alison back for another case. It’s been a privilege to tell a story that opens up representation of the deaf community, while also delivering suspense and twists.
“Rose brings so much heart and complexity to the role and I can’t wait to get started on the next chapter with her, ITV and the brilliant team at Mammoth.”
When is the start date for Code of Silence series 2?
As of August 2026, filming is underway on the second series of the ITV thriller. So we’re expecting series 2 to land on our screens in 2027.
For now, series 1 is currently available to watch on ITV1.
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