Karen Pirie confirmed for series 2 of detective drama at ITV

Detective drama Karen Pirie has been confirmed for a second series at ITV.

The series is inspired by Val McDermid's novels that has been adapted for TV by Emer Kenny, who has also written for Save Me, Harlots and EastEnders.

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Lauren Lyle, who appeared in the BBC series Vigil, will return as title character Karen Pirie and the second series follows the second of McDermid's novels, A Darker Domain.

It will see detective Karen reopen the investigation into the unsolved kidnap of a wealthy young heiress and her baby son back in 1985.

Lyle said: "I'm thrilled that we will continue the life of our fearless young detective Karen Pirie, and of course, her bumbag.

"I've known for a while how well the show has gone down behind the scenes so it's been a joy to see audiences want more. It's a creative honour to work alongside Emer Kenny with the backbone of Val McDermid's story, season one was incredibly exciting building an original character we hadn't seen before.

"I look forward to getting the gang back together and finally being able to answer the question: ‘Please say there will be a season two?’ with an ‘Oh yes.’"

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The first series of Karen Pirie proved a hit, launching to 6.6 million viewers and averaging 5.9 million viewers across its run.

Series two is set to begin filming in Scotland in early 2024 and will also take in some scenes in Italy.

Screenwriter Kenny said: "The first series of Karen Pirie was a true labour of love, so it was thrilling to receive such an amazing response from audiences. That reaction has meant we’ve been asked back to make more, and we will happily oblige - the second book is partially set in Tuscany, and we all fancy the trip!

"Thank you to everyone who watched our show, and to ITV for ordering a second round. We’ll endeavour to bring you something refreshing and riveting (with lovely Italian views)."

McDermid, whose books have sold more than 17 million copies worldwide, said: "I know the millions of viewers all over the world who loved the first Karen Pirie series will be as thrilled at this news as I am. I can't wait to see how the team bring the next book, A Darker Domain, to life!"