The Missing Series 2, more details and a twist to series 3?

Following the conclusion of the first series of The Missing last night, millions of viewers were given a surprise taste of a second series of the hit BBC One show. As the case of Oliver Hughes came to a startling conclusion - or did it? BBC One broadcast a cryptic trail revealing clues to a whole new series.

Made by New Pictures for BBC One, the series will once again be written by Harry and Jack Williams and will be told over two time frames but with a new case, new characters and new location.


Last nights trail was written by Harry and Jack Williams and was directed by Tom Shankland. It presented viewers with an intriguing, atmospheric sequence hinting at subtle clues pointing towards series 2. The sequence was accompanied by a voice over from the lead French detective, Julien Batiste (Tcheky Karyo):

“To lose somebody can destroy a person. But to find them again, when so much has passed... Well. Sometimes...that can be worse.”

Harry and Jack Williams, Writers (Two Brothers Pictures), say: “We always knew that the story of Oliver Hughes would have an ending. But in writing the first series we found there were many themes and issues we didn’t have the chance to explore. The response to the show has been fantastic, and we’re thrilled to be telling a brand new story which we hope will surprise and intrigue and tell an even bigger tale on an even more ambitious canvas.”

Charlotte Moore, Controller, BBC One, says: “The Missing surprised at every turn, weaving a gripping and complex story across two timescales which kept viewers guessing til the very end and demonstrated the range and ambition of drama on BBC One. I’m really pleased to announce that the incredible team behind the series will bring a new case to our BBC One audience and we can guarantee another challenging, contemporary story written by Harry and Jack Williams.”

Ben Stephenson, Controller BBC Drama commissioning, says: “Harry and Jack Williams’ original drama series has had the nation gripped for the last eight weeks and has proved both a critical and ratings hit with our BBC One audience. With a brand new and fresh case ahead - we can’t wait to learn what Harry and Jack have in store for series two.”

Now rumours abound this morning that series 3 has already been planned and that an idea being floated is that it may touch once more on Oliver and reveal he isnt in fact dead. Viewers didn't see what was in the van but assumed it was his body.. perhaps he was bound and gagged and in the hands of..well lets no go there but I am sure you could imagine.

See our interview with series one star James Nesbitt live on set, here