BBC's 'Ludwig' Returns for Season 2 with New Cast Members

The detective show ‘Ludwig,’ lauded as ‘the best British drama in years,’ is returning for a second season later this month. David Mitchell and Anna Maxwell-Martin will reprise their roles alongside a new addition, Stephen Merchant.

What is ‘Ludwig’ about?

Season one followed ‘accidental detective’ John Taylor as he searched for his missing brother. Season two sees John working as a Crime Scene Consultant for the Cambridge Police Authority, now openly embracing his ‘Ludwig’ persona – brilliant at puzzles but otherwise hopeless. Despite his new position, he remains determined to find his brother, though restricted from using police resources.

Who is in ‘Ludwig’?

David Mitchell returns as John ‘Ludwig’ Taylor, alongside Anna Maxwell-Martin as Lucy Betts-Taylor and Dylan Hughes as Henry Betts-Taylor. New additions to the cast include Stephen Merchant as Danny Sloane, Mark Bonnar as newspaper editor Gareth Fisher, Sian Clifford as local MP Joanne Kemper, Ben Ashenden as DC Ethan Cole, and Rumi Sutton as DC Caitlin Sullivan. Dorothy Atkinson reprises her role as DCS Carol Shaw, and Ralph Ineson as Chief Constable Ziegler.

When is Ludwig season 2 being released?

Ludwig season two premieres on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 9pm on BBC One. The first three episodes will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer immediately following the premiere. The remaining episodes will be released in September.