3 reasons you shouldn’t miss Adrian Dunbar’s gripping detective drama now it’s finally back

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This week, fans of crime dramas will find plenty to keep them engaged as Adrian Dunbar’s engaging detective series, titled “Ridley“, comes back for its second season.

Approximately three years have passed since Dunbar (from Line of Duty) donned the mournful footsteps of retired detective inspector Alex Ridley, yet the series remains as captivating as ever.

Although Ridley is likely still grappling with the tragic loss of his wife and daughter, it appears that he has gained more control over his grief, which might make him more effective in taking on new detective cases as a consultant.

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This is also beneficial since there’s an abundance of tasks for character Ridley to dive into this season, as he rekindles his collaboration with his previous protege, Detective Inspector Carol Farman, portrayed by Bronagh Waugh.

In a gripping start to its second season, ITV unveiled an opening episode centered around a daring jewelry heist that turned violent, culminating in the death of a suspect in daylight. This wasn’t just an effective hook; Ridley‘s knack for captivating audiences doesn’t stop there.

If a three-year hiatus from airing has perhaps made you forget the appeal of Ridley’s show, let us refresh your memory as to why this series shines among the numerous crime dramas competing for your viewership.

Twists baked into twists

One thing that Ridley always manages to nail is a twist, and season two is no exception.

In a remarkable fashion, the originators skillfully flip conventional assumptions, and subsequently add another layer to the plot that makes it even more intricately complex or unpredictable.

On the contrary, it doesn’t seem contrived or excessive. Ridley instead lays a solid foundation from the start, ensuring that each unfolding twist appears natural, genuine, and more like an organic progression of the narrative.

The B-plot is just as intriguing as the main story

In a series like “Ridley,” there’s an abundance of interconnected plotlines, which sometimes makes it challenging to ensure that every narrative thread captures the audience’s interest equally, given the rotating cast of guest stars.

But we do care immensely about every storyline.

Although Ridley and DI Farman’s stories take center stage, captivating you, the subplots involving other characters are just as compelling. Former acquaintances may reappear with issues that leave viewers eager for a conclusion, while the primary characters have personal matters simmering in the periphery, subtly adding depth to the narrative.

The extra details gradually draw in the viewers’ focus, and it’s simply captivating. By the finale of each episode, there’s barely any question that you’ve been thoroughly engaged.

Ridley’s character development

In the initial episodes of the series “Ridley“, it was made clear that Ridley had tragically lost his family in a fire, delving deeply into the emotional turmoil he experienced. As we move on to season two, the show skillfully develops this aspect of Ridley’s character without repeating familiar themes.

The series delves deeper into the pain, providing insights that are integral to both the narrative and current plots, ensuring it remains contemporary. Ridley’s narrative style sheds light on various dimensions of grief, notably through his complex relationship with his late wife’s best friend, Annie Marling, portrayed by Julie Graham.

The storyline subtly and poignantly tugs at your emotions as it unfolds alongside the detective mystery, making for a deeply moving viewing experience.

Ridley is available to stream now on ITVX.

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2025-08-11 10:49