ITV commissions a second series of the acclaimed thriller Code of Silence, starring Rose Ayling-Ellis, written and created by Catherine Moulton and produced by Mammoth Screen

ITV's Director of Drama, Polly Hill, has commissioned a second series of the gripping thriller Code of Silence, following an overwhelming audience response and widespread critical acclaim for the first series, which launched on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday May 18.

Created and written by Catherine Moulton and produced by the award-winning Mammoth Screen, part of ITV Studios, Code of Silence quickly became a breakout hit. The six-part drama was praised for its original and compelling storytelling, with Rose Ayling-Ellis delivering a standout lead performance. Rose was joined by a talented ensemble cast including Kieron Moore, Charlotte Ritchie, Andrew Buchan, Nathan Armarkwei Laryea, Joe Absolom, and Fifi Garfield, whose performances added depth and nuance to the series.

Critics responded enthusiastically, with four and five-star reviews. The series was described as a landmark moment for inclusion and representation and hailed as the must-watch thriller of the year. Rose Ayling-Ellis's performance was particularly praised, while the production team and ITV were recognised for delivering a drama with genuine impact and talkability.

The series captivated audiences, with the first episode consolidating at 7.5 million viewers. Over 20 million streams have been recorded across the full box set, making Code of Silence the most-watched drama across all platforms and channels in Q2 of 2025. The series is currently averaging 6.4 million viewers.

Insights from a YouGov survey of viewers highlighted the drama's powerful and authentic depiction of life with a disability. Audiences praised its portrayal of BSL within a gripping narrative, the reframing of lip-reading as a valuable skill, and the emotionally charged drama that left many eager for more.

Commented ITV Drama Commissioner, Callum Dziedzic:

We are unbelievably proud of Code of Silence, and it's been a joy seeing audiences embrace it - especially their love for the skilful, headstrong, and effortlessly loveable Alison. Rose brings her to life with real charm and depth, and Catherine's brilliant concept gave her the perfect world to step into. We can't wait to share another gripping case, with Alison's talents and perspective delivering a thriller that's pulse-pounding, distinctive, and like nothing else on TV.

Commented Rose Ayling-Ellis:

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.

Commented Catherine Moulton:

I'm thrilled by the response to the first series of Code of Silence and so excited to be bringing Alison back for another case. It's been a privilege to tell a story that opens up representation of the Deaf community, while also delivering suspense and twists. Rose brings so much heart and complexity to the role and I can't wait to get started on the next chapter with her, ITV and the brilliant team at Mammoth.

Commented Mammoth's Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Damien Timmer:

The response to Code of Silence has been incredible and we are all so excited to be returning for a second series. Rose Ayling-Ellis is an extraordinary talent, and Catherine Moulton's storytelling continues to be both thrilling and deeply insightful. It's a privilege to be working with both, alongside Polly, Callum and ITV, on a show that not only grips audiences, but also broadens perspectives in such a meaningful way.

Development is underway on the second series, which is scheduled to begin filming next year. Further details on casting and production will be revealed in due course.

The second series will be executive produced by Damien Timmer, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Mammoth Screen, with Rose Ayling-Ellis and Catherine Moulton also returning as executive producers.

ITV's Director of Drama, Polly Hill, and Drama Commissioner, Callum Dziedzic, will oversee the production on behalf of the broadcaster.

Code of Silence qualifies for ITV's Diversity Commissioning Spend, a ring-fenced £80 million in the content commissioning budget over the next three years, for programmes that meet the qualifying criteria, which includes diverse company ownership or leadership, or two of the remaining three criteria around either diverse creative leadership, diverse stories and portrayal on-screen, or diverse salary spend.

Code of Silence is produced in association with and distributed by ITV Studios.

ITV Studios has secured an initial round of sales of the critically acclaimed first series, which has been acquired by Canal for France; ARD for Germany; SVT, NRK, DRTV, YLE for the Nordics; SBS Australia, Lionsgate in India and TVNZ New Zealand.

Series 1 is currently available to stream on ITVX and STV Player, and will premiere on BritBox North America on July 24.

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