Cooper and Fry set to return to 5
Channel 5’s crime drama Cooper and Fry looks set to return for a second series, with new episodes expected later this year, theversion.co.uk understands.
Adapted from the bestselling novels by Stephen Booth, Cooper and Fry has quickly established itself as a standout entry in the UK crime drama landscape, combining atmospheric storytelling with character-driven mystery.
A Peak District Crime Drama with a Strong Hook
Set against the rugged and often eerie backdrop of the Peak District, Cooper and Fry follows two very different detectives forced into partnership.
Ben Cooper, played by Robert James-Collier (Downton Abbey, The Inheritance), is a grounded and affable local officer with deep ties to the area. In contrast, Diane Fry—played by Mandip Gill (Doctor Who, Suspicion)—is a more reserved and driven outsider, determined to prove herself.
Together, they are tasked with solving a series of mysterious deaths, navigating not only complex investigations but also their own contrasting personalities. As their working relationship evolves, so too does a complicated friendship that adds emotional depth to the series.
Built on a Long-Running Book Series
The TV adaptation draws from the popular Cooper and Fry novels by Stephen Booth, which span 18 books. The first series adapted four of the author’s early works:
Black Dog
Dying to Sin
Blind to the Bones
Dancing with the Virgins
With a large catalogue of stories still to explore, there is plenty of material available for future seasons. Reports suggest that a second series could adapt another four novels, with production potentially beginning in the summer—though this has not yet been formally announced.
Strong Ratings Drive Expectations for Renewal
While Channel 5 has not officially confirmed a second series, the show’s performance suggests a return is highly likely.
The debut episode pulled in around 2.2 million viewers within its first seven days, making it one of the channel’s most successful drama launches in recent years. It also ranked among the top five dramas in overnight ratings and became Channel 5’s most-watched programme at the time.
Notably, it outperformed other titles such as Play for Today and The Forsytes, which attracted roughly half the audience.
This level of success has positioned Cooper and Fry as a key contender in Channel 5’s growing drama slate.
Channel 5’s Expanding Drama Line-Up
Whether or not Cooper and Fry is formally renewed in the coming weeks, Channel 5 is clearly investing more heavily in original scripted content.
Other dramas expected to return or continue this year include:
Murder Before Evensong (Series 2 expected)
Ellis
The Hardacres
The Good Ship Murder
This broader push into drama suggests the broadcaster is keen to build on recent successes and compete more directly with other UK networks in the genre.
When Could Cooper and Fry Return?
With no official confirmation yet, there is currently no release date for a potential second series. However, if production does begin in the summer as expected, a return sometime next year would be a realistic timeline.
Why Fans Are Expecting More
With its mix of compelling characters, strong performances, and a rich literary foundation, Cooper and Fry has all the ingredients of a long-running hit. The chemistry between Robert James-Collier and Mandip Gill, combined with the atmospheric Peak District setting, has resonated strongly with audiences.
Until Channel 5 makes an official announcement, the future of the series remains unconfirmed—but based on its early success, a second series of Cooper and Fry looks increasingly likely.