The Hardacres series 2: Unforgotten star joins cast as new villain in first look at hit Channel 5 drama’s return
The Hardacres will be at risk of 'losing everything'
The Hardacres will return for series 2 this year, and Channel 5 has unveiled first-look images of what’s coming next – as well as major casting details.
The period drama first premiered in October 2024. Created by Amy Roberts and Loren McLaughlan and based on CL Skelton’s bestselling novels, it’s a rags-to-riches story of a working-class family in late-1800s Yorkshire.
Channel 5 confirmed the development of a second series in July last year, teasing that it will follow the Hardacres as they “turn their attention to reshaping the world around them”.
Now, we’ve been given a peek at The Hardacres series 2 and the new stars who’ve joined the cast.
What will happen in The Hardacres series 2?
The Hardacres series 2 will take place in 1985, with the titular family “on the brink of transformation”, according to Channel 5’s synopsis.
As the 20th century approaches, “modernity sweeps into Hardacre Hall with electricity and shifting loyalties”.
“Mary and Sam embrace wealth and opportunity, but their children begin forging identities that challenge expectations. Mary champions adult education for dock workers, while Sam expands the family business amid a looming recession, uncertain if Joe is ready to succeed him,” the synopsis continues.
Determined to prove himself, Joe’s impulsive choices threaten his future. Liza recovering from romantic disappointment, is swept up by a chance encounter with a handsome stranger, while Harry’s plans to abandon school are transformed by an inspiring new tutor.”
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Channel 5 has also teased the new series’ villain: Lady Imelda Hansen, the “formidable” mother of Lady Emma Fitzherbert.
“[She] arrives at the Fitzherbert’s home with a dangerous agenda, forcing the Hardacres to unite or risk losing everything,” the synopsis adds.
When is series 2 coming out?
The Hardacres series 2 doesn’t have a confirmed release date yet.
However, it’s expected to air on Channel 5 in spring 2026, and its launch date will be confirmed “in due course”, the broadcaster has said.
Who’s in The Hardacres series 2 cast?
Everyone you’d expect to see in The Hardacres cast is back for series 2, including:
- Claire Cooper (The Continental, The Peripheral) as Mary Hardacre
- Liam McMahon (Hunger, Warrior Nun) as Sam Hardacre
- Julie Graham (The City Is Ours, Time) as Mary’s mother, Ma
- Adam Little (Ackley Bridge, Coronation Street) as Joe
- Shannon Lavelle (Riot Women) Liza
- Zak Ford‑Williams (Bridgerton, Better) as Harry
There are other returning stars, too. Holly Sturton, Cathy Belton, and Owen Roe will reprise their roles as Lady Adella, Lady Emma and Lord George Fitzherbert.
Ingrid Craigie will also return as as Mrs Dryden, alongside Sarah Agha as Betsy Hardacre and Taheen Modak as Callum Saunders.
There are three new actors joining the cast of series 2. Edward Mitchell, who appeared in Zack Snyder’s Justice League, will portray Arthur Lewis. Niall McNamee, who starred in Netflix’s The Foreigner and Bad Sisters, will also play Edward Blackwood.
Most excitingly, Michele Dotrice will play the Hardacres’ foe, Lady Imelda Hansen.
Dotrice famously portrayed Betty Spencer in the BBC’s Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em. She’s also had small roles in all sorts of classic dramas, like Holby City, Midsomer Murders, and Doctors (plus a part in one of the best Inside No. 9 episodes ever, ‘The 12 Days of Christine’).
In 2025, she played Dot Barnes in Unforgotten series 6.
What happened at the end of series 1?
While you can read our recap of The Hardacres series 1’s ending, there are a few things you should remember before series 2.
First of all, Mary talked to Liza about her pills, which led to a confrontation with Lady Emma (who’d been giving them to her). As a consequence, Adella didn’t end up marrying Hugo.
Elsewhere, Sam successfully won rights for the dockside workers, making them all shareholders.
Betsy also revealed she was pregnant… with Joe’s baby, and they got married (even though he’s really in love with Adella).
Mrs Dryden got the sack, on account of her hiding the Cavendish antiques. However, she was then rehired, thanks to her kindness to Betsy.
How many episodes will there be?
The Hardacres series 2 will have a total of six episodes.
It’s unclear if they’ll all be available to stream at once or if Channel 5 will drop one episode per week, but we do know they will be 60 minutes each.
