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ITV has officially commissioned a second series of its hit thriller Code of Silence, following its critically acclaimed debut earlier this year.
The six-part series, which aired on ITV1 and ITVX in May and June, captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and fresh perspective, consolidating an impressive 7.5 million viewers for its opening episode.
Much of the show’s success has been credited to its bold decision to place a Deaf character, played by former EastEnders star and Strictly Come Dancing winner Rose Ayling-Ellis, firmly at the centre of the story.
Rose stars as Alison Woods, a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter working for the police who becomes embroiled in a dangerous criminal conspiracy. Her performance was widely praised for its nuance and authenticity, with many viewers describing the show as groundbreaking for representation on primetime TV.
Charlotte Ritchie as DS Ashleigh Francis and Rose Ayling-Ellis as Alison Brooks – Credit: Mammoth Screen for ITV/ITVX
Speaking after the announcement, Rose shared her excitement about returning for the second series:
“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.”
ITV’s Head of Drama Polly Hill praised the series as “one of our most exciting and original dramas of the year,” adding:
“We’re delighted to welcome back Rose and the rest of the creative team for another thrilling chapter of Code of Silence. It’s exactly the kind of drama ITV should be making, smart, inclusive, and utterly gripping.”
For many viewers, the inclusion of a Deaf lead in a fast-paced thriller was a refreshing change in a genre that has often lacked diversity. The first series drew particular praise from members of the Deaf community for the way it integrated BSL into the storytelling, without it feeling forced or tokenistic.
One viewer wrote on social media:
“Seeing someone like me on screen in such a powerful role means more than I can say. Thank you, ITV and Rose, for making this happen.”
The first series ended on a dramatic cliffhanger, leaving fans desperate for answers about Alison’s fate and how she might outwit the forces working against her. Plot details for series two are being kept tightly under wraps, but filming is expected to begin later this year, with a likely broadcast in 2026.
For now, viewers can catch up on the first series on ITVX, and prepare for more twists, tension, and a groundbreaking lead performance when Alison returns.
