Code of Silence returning to ITV1 for a second series

The news follows the huge success of ITV1.

ITV1 has today announced that their hit drama Code of Silence will return for a second series, with Rose Ayling-Ellis returning as Alison.

The news follows overwhelming audience response and widespread critical acclaim for the first series which launched in May. To date, the series has been streamed over 20 million times so far, with the first episode consolidating at 7.5 million viewers.

Created and written by Catherine Moulton, Code of Silence quickly became a breakout hit and was praised for its original and compelling storytelling, with Rose Ayling-Ellis delivering a standout lead performance.

Rose was joined by a talented ensemble cast including Kieron Moore, Charlotte Ritchie, Andrew Buchan, Nathan Armarkwei Laryea, Joe Absolom and Fifi Garfield.

Produced by the award-winning Mammoth Screen, part of ITV Studios,

Insights from a YouGov survey of viewers highlighted the drama’s powerful and authentic depiction of life with a disability. Audiences praised its portrayal of BSL within a gripping narrative, the reframing of lip-reading as a valuable skill, and the emotionally charged drama that left many eager for more.

Speaking about today's news, ITV's Drama Commissioner, Callum Dziedzic, said "We are unbelievably proud of Code of Silence, and 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."

To which Rose Ayling-Ellis added "I’m so proud that Code of Silence has been recommissioned. The response to the first series has been incredible, and 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."

Development is underway on the second series, which is scheduled to begin filming next year with further details on casting and production to be revealed in due course.

The second series will be executive produced by Damien Timmer, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Mammoth Screen, with Rose Ayling-Ellis and Catherine Moulton also returning as executive producers.

Speaking ahead of the series, writer and creator Catherine Moulton said "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."

To which Mammoth’s Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Damien Timmer, added "The response to Code of Silence has been incredible and we are all so excited to be returning for a second series. Rose Ayling-Ellis is an extraordinary talent, and Catherine Moulton’s storytelling continues to be both thrilling and deeply insightful. It’s a privilege to be working with both, alongside Polly, Callum and ITV, on a show that not only grips audiences, but also broadens perspectives in such a meaningful way."

Code of Silence will return to ITV1