After months of speculation ITV, Kudos and Imaginary Friends have confirmed the returning cast for the new series of Broadchurch, which begins filming in Dorset shortly.In keeping with the first series, secrecy and intrigue surrounds the story of the award winning drama written by creator and acclaimed screenwriter Chris Chibnall.

David Tennant will return as Alec Hardy, whilst Olivia Colman resumes her role as Ellie Miller, last seen having her life torn apart as husband Joe confessed to murdering local schoolboy Danny Latimer.Jodie Whittaker and Andrew Buchan, who play Danny’s parents Beth and Mark Latimer, will also return to their roles, alongside Arthur Darvill as local vicar Paul Coates.

No other details have yet been revealed. ITV’s Director of Drama Steve November and Controller of Drama Victoria Fea have commissioned the new series.

“We’re delighted Broadchurch is back in production, but we’re remaining tight-lipped about how the story develops,” said Steve. “Suffice to say Chris has delivered as always and the scripts are just as exciting as the first series.” Broadchurch will be executive produced by Chris Chibnall (The Great Train Robbery, Torchwood) for Imaginary Friends and Jane Featherstone (Utopia, The Hour, Spooks) on behalf of Kudos, a Shine Group company. The Producer is Richard Stokes (Silk, Law & Order: UK) who also produced the first series. James Strong, who directed 5 episodes of the first series including episode one, will be directing episodes one and two of this new series.

“The reaction to Broadchurch from UK viewers has been incredible,” said Jane. “So we’d like viewers to enjoy the new series knowing as little as possible about what’s to come and for the story to unfold in real time.” 　　More Broadchurch news will follow soon to ensure the media are kept informed of specific developments, but we’re appealing to the media to avoid revealing any spoilers beyond this.