Ludwig fans can breathe a sigh of relief – or perhaps let out a triumphant, puzzle-solving yell. The BBC has officially renewed the David Mitchell-led comedy-mystery for a second season, confirming what many suspected: the quirky detective series is a hit. Boasting over 9.5 million viewers in its first season, Ludwig has become the BBC’s biggest new scripted show since 2022.
Mitchell will, of course, return as the titular John “Ludwig” Taylor, the man reluctantly thrust into the role of Cambridge’s most unconventional crime solver. Anna Maxwell Martin will also reprise her role as Ludwig’s long-suffering sister-in-law, Lucy, no doubt providing another masterclass in exasperated reactions. Creator Mark Brotherhood will be back to pen more fiendishly clever mysteries. Further casting announcements are expected soon.
The first season culminated in Ludwig’s dramatic reveal of his true identity to his colleagues. Having posed as his missing brother, James, throughout the series, Ludwig finally came clean, managing to avoid serious repercussions and even land a consulting gig with the police. This sets the stage for more amusingly awkward collaborations between Ludwig and the perpetually bewildered Cambridge constabulary.
Ludwig season two will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
