Lesley Sharp crime thriller 'Before We Die' confirmed for series 2

Crime thriller Before We Die has been confirmed to be returning for a second series by Channel 4, welcoming Lesley Sharp back to lead the cast.

The drama series was adapted from a Swedish programme and stars Sharp as detective Hannah Laing who joins forces with maverick detective Billy Murdoch, played by Vincent Regan, in a desperate bid to protect her son Christian, played by Patrick Gibson.

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Channel 4 has revealed that viewers can expect something different from the exciting thriller in series two, as it will break away from the Swedish storyline and follow another plot.

This time, Hannah will be pitched directly against Dubravka, (Kazia Pelka) the terrifying matriarch at the head of the Mimica Croatian crime family.

Sharp said: "To take part in a story that has a complex, ambivalent, older female character at the centre of its beating heart is a privilege. I am excited and honoured to be part of this collaborative, creative team.

"Viva Hannah! Viva Channel 4! Viva Eagle Eye! Here’s to the next chapter of Before We Die."

Channel 4 head of drama Caroline Hollick said: "I’m delighted to welcome back this gripping crime thriller to the channel.

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"Series one struck a chord with audiences, with over 12 million viewers tuned into the show on All 4 - from the edge of their seats.

"I can’t wait for audiences to enter back into this world - with more surprises, twists and turns in store and I’m delighted to have Lesley Sharp back at the helm playing the formidable Hannah Laing, along with the rest of our brilliant cast."

Jo McGrath, executive producer and CCO of Eagle Eye Drama who made the series, added: "So very rarely at the centre of crime thrillers, women this time round will be pulling all the strings, leading to a breath-taking climax to the series."

Before We Die is also due to begin airing season one in the US this weekend as it will go out on PBS from Sunday.

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