Apple TV's Criminal Record Returns with Peter Capaldi and Cush Jumbo

Apple TV’s acclaimed crime thriller Criminal Record is set to return for its second season on April 22, 2026, with Peter Capaldi and Cush Jumbo reprising their roles as the contentious detective duo, DCI Daniel Hegarty and DS June Lenker. The show has captivated audiences with its intense storytelling and character dynamics, and this new season promises to deliver even more drama and intrigue.

During an appearance on ITV’s This Morning, Capaldi revealed an interesting behind-the-scenes detail: he and Jumbo do not rehearse their scenes together. "We don’t rehearse," Capaldi stated, explaining that this approach helps maintain the "crackle" in their on-screen relationship. This spontaneity allows their performances to feel fresh and genuine, as neither actor knows how the other will react until the cameras roll.

Capaldi’s relationship with Jumbo extends beyond professional boundaries; they share a deep mutual respect cultivated over years of collaboration. "I’ve known Cush since she was a young actress, a crazy kid with a dream, and I’ve watched her blossom into this celebrated classical actress... she’s really become an international treasure," he remarked. This bond adds depth to their characters, who often clash over an unresolved murder case that serves as a backdrop for their complex interactions.

In the upcoming season, viewers can expect the tension between Hegarty and Lenker to persist. As Jumbo noted, "June has risen up the ranks a little bit and thinks that she’s never gonna have to work with this guy again. But she’s trying to solve a case that’s really important to her, where she’s watched a young kid being murdered." This season promises to explore their antagonistic relationship even more deeply, as they navigate professional challenges and personal conflicts.

Adding another layer to the production, Capaldi’s wife, Elaine Collins, serves as the executive producer of Criminal Record. During the same interview, Capaldi expressed admiration for Collins' work, saying, "It’s fantastic. That’s how I got the job. She’s brilliant. It’s great to have somebody there who can be very frank with you and say, ‘You’re not going to do it like that.’" This dynamic enhances the creative process and reflects their long-standing personal relationship, having been married since 1991.

Collins has an impressive background in television, having previously developed successful series such as ITV’s Vera and BBC’s Shetland. Her experience in the industry has undoubtedly contributed to the high quality of Criminal Record, allowing the show to resonate with viewers and critics alike. Capaldi praised her ability to observe and critique their performances, stating, "She is always right." This level of candid feedback is invaluable in a collaborative environment, particularly in a genre that thrives on tension and authenticity.

As Criminal Record gears up for its second season, anticipation is building among fans eager to see how the story will evolve. The first season was well-received, noted for its gripping narrative and strong performances, and the upcoming episodes are expected to maintain that momentum. The show’s unique premise and character interactions have set it apart in a crowded streaming market, where Apple TV+ has been making strides with a variety of original content.

Since its launch in late 2019, Apple TV+ has emerged as a formidable player in the streaming industry, producing several critically acclaimed series. Alongside Criminal Record, shows like Defending Jacob, featuring Chris Evans, have also contributed to the platform’s growing reputation. Defending Jacob, which premiered in April 2020, is based on William Landay’s novel and tells the story of a father grappling with the accusation that his son is a murderer. The series has been praised for its character-driven storytelling and emotional depth, making it a standout offering from Apple TV+.

In fact, six years after its premiere, Defending Jacob is being rediscovered by viewers who may have missed it during its initial run. The show, which spans eight episodes, has been described as one of Apple TV’s most gripping legal dramas, ranking among the platform’s top three shows at the time of its release. With a 70% approval rating from critics and an 86% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, it remains a relevant and thought-provoking series in today’s television climate.

As audiences return to Apple TV+ to catch up on prestige dramas, both Criminal Record and Defending Jacob exemplify the streaming service’s commitment to quality storytelling. The focus on intimate family dynamics and complex moral dilemmas in these series resonates with viewers, providing a rich viewing experience that encourages reflection on the nature of justice and the human condition.

With the second season of Criminal Record launching soon, fans can look forward to more thrilling developments in the lives of Hegarty and Lenker. As they tackle new challenges and unresolved issues from the past, the chemistry and tension between Capaldi and Jumbo will undoubtedly keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The second season a captivating continuation of a story that has already proven to be both engaging and thought-provoking.

As the premiere date approaches, anticipation grows for what lies ahead in Criminal Record. With its unique blend of crime drama and character exploration, this series is set to reaffirm its place in the pantheon of must-watch television.