Rose Ayling-Ellis Returns as Filming Begins on Code of Silence Series Two

ITV has confirmed that production is underway on the second series of Code of Silence, with Rose Ayling-Ellis returning as Alison Brooks.

The BAFTA-winning crime drama earned widespread acclaim when it premiered in spring 2025, particularly for its emotional depth, innovative storytelling and authentic representation of the deaf community.

Critics described the programme as a landmark for inclusion and one of the year’s essential thrillers, while Ayling-Ellis received significant praise for her leading performance.

A new investigation for Alison Brooks

Created and written by Catherine Moulton, the six-part second series will continue exploring crime, communication and representation through a new investigation.

The story begins two years after the events of the first series. Alison is completing her forensic lip-reading training with the police when she is called upon to assist with a crucial surveillance operation.

The assignment centres on Ruby Dowling, played by Emily Head, a woman caught up in an elaborate money-laundering network. The case develops into Alison’s first murder investigation as an official member of the police team.

Determined to establish herself in her new role, Alison finds herself struggling with its professional limits. As loyalties become divided and boundaries begin to blur, her instincts, attention to detail and exceptional lip-reading abilities suggest that the case is more complicated than it initially appears.

Returning and new cast members confirmed

Ayling-Ellis will reunite with several actors from the first series, including Andrew Buchan, known for Black Doves and Passenger, and comedian and actor John Bishop, whose previous credits include Doctor Who and The Accused.

Nathan Armarkwei Laryea and Fifi Garfield will also return.

The second series adds several new names to the ensemble. Jonah Hauer-King, who has appeared in A House of Dynamite and The Tattooist of Auschwitz, joins alongside Little Disasters star Jo Joyner.

The new cast also includes Downton Abbey actress Sophie McShera, John Hollingworth from Poldark and The Crown, Sasha Desouza-Willock and Emily Head.

Rose Ayling-Ellis welcomes the show’s return

Ayling-Ellis, who also serves as an executive producer, said she was delighted to return to the set and reunite with the cast and crew who made the first series such an enjoyable experience.

She added that she was also looking forward to welcoming the production’s new team members.

Moulton said she was thrilled to continue Alison’s story now that the character has officially joined the police team.

According to the writer, Alison is eager to make an impression but soon finds herself torn between her determination to identify a killer and the restrictions imposed by her new position.

Commitment to authentic representation continues

ITV said the second series will retain the programme’s commitment to meaningful representation both in front of and behind the camera.

The production will once again feature a diverse cast and crew, including deaf, disabled and neurodiverse talent.

A broadcast date for the six new episodes has not been announced.