By tvacute.com, BBC’s crime drama THIS CITY IS OURS is officially set to return for a second season. First reported by Deadline, the announcement comes on the heels of the show’s remarkable performance on BBC iPlayer, where it became the broadcaster’s biggest new drama launch of the year.
Created and written by Stephen Butchard, THIS CITY IS OURS stars James Nelson-Joyce as Michael Kavanagh, a drug gang leader facing the collapse of his criminal empire. Alongside him is Sean Bean as his longtime ally Ronnie, and Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Derry Girls) in a pivotal role. Hannah Onslow plays Diana, Michael’s love interest, whose relationship with him unfolds as the criminal underworld begins to fall apart.
Season 1 told the story of Michael and Diana’s romance amid chaos. After years of dominance in the cocaine trade—fueled by connections with the Marbella underworld—Michael and Ronnie’s operations begin to unravel when a key shipment disappears. This triggers a power struggle, especially between Michael and Jamie Phelan, played by Jack McMullen, who both view themselves as rightful successors in the gang.
Produced by Left Bank Pictures, the studio behind The Crown, the show has become BBC iPlayer’s biggest new drama launch of the year. Episode 1 alone reached over 6.6 million viewers—more than triple its overnight audience—making it a standout success for BBC Drama.
Viewers were gripped by the complex dynamics, layered storytelling, and gritty performances. The cast also includes Laura Aikman, Julie Graham, Kevin Harvey, Mike Noble, Bobby Schofield, Darci Shaw, and Stephen Walters. With the finale now available on iPlayer, anticipation for what’s next is growing.
Series creator Stephen Butchard shared his gratitude: “We have all been blown away by the incredibly positive response to THIS CITY IS OURS. I can’t thank the audience enough for their time and emotional investment. My heartfelt thanks also to Lindsay Salt and the BBC Drama team for their belief in our story.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, called the response “a joy to see” and confirmed the series has only just begun: “Millions have discovered its thrilling, character-driven drama. I’m delighted we now get to build on this fantastic first run.”
James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Michael, previously admitted he didn’t want to get his hopes up about a second season but now celebrates the renewal: “The crew is incredible, brilliant writing, filming in Liverpool—it’s a proper Christmas gift.”
Internationally distributed by Sony Pictures Television, THIS CITY IS OURS has made a strong impression both in the UK and abroad. With Season 2 confirmed, fans can expect more of the gritty, emotional storytelling that made Season 1 such a success.
You can now stream the entire first season of THIS CITY IS OURS on BBC iPlayer.
Don’t forget to check back with tvacute.com for more updates, sneak peeks, and detailed recaps of THIS CITY IS OURS and other hit BBC dramas.
