The landscape of British crime drama has been significantly enriched by the return of “Ridley,” a compelling police procedural that captivated audiences with its initial run and promises even more intricate mysteries in its second season. Created and written by Paul Matthew Thompson, known for his work on “Vera,” alongside Jonathan Fisher, this ITV series stands out not just for its gripping plots but for its deeply human characters, led by the incomparable Adrian Dunbar.
At its heart, “Ridley” weaves a narrative around Alex Ridley, a retired detective inspector whose early departure from the force was precipitated by profound personal tragedy. Now, some eighteen months later, he’s drawn back into the world of crime as a consultant, lending his unparalleled experience and unique insights to his former protégé, DI Carol Farman. This dynamic blend of seasoned wisdom and burgeoning leadership forms the backbone of a show that explores both the dark underbelly of crime and the enduring human spirit.
As the series continues to unfold, it invites viewers to delve into the intricate lives of its characters, examining their motivations, struggles, and the indispensable roles they play in solving the North of England’s most complex cases. We take a closer look at the key players who bring this compelling world to life, understanding their impact on the narrative and the very fabric of “Ridley” itself.
1. Alex Ridley (Adrian Dunbar)
Adrian Dunbar embodies the titular character, Alex Ridley, with a nuanced portrayal that makes him one of British television’s most fascinating detectives. Initially, Ridley is introduced as a former detective inspector who took early retirement, having suffered a nervous breakdown following the devastating loss of his wife and daughter in a house fire. This profound personal tragedy casts a long shadow over his life, shaping his every action and decision.
Despite his retirement, Ridley is drawn back into police work as a consultant, bringing his wealth of experience to assist his former protégé, DI Carol Farman. His methods are often described as “unconventional solutions to investigations,” proving particularly “useful when dealing with complex crimes.” This approach stems from a deep well of empathy and a unique talent for “understanding the psychology of murders,” allowing him to connect with cases on a level others might miss.
Beyond the badge, Ridley finds solace and expression in music. He spends some of his retirement time as a pianist and singer in a jazz club, of which he is a co-owner, showcasing another facet of his multifaceted personality. Fans will be delighted to know that “yes, that really is Dunbar singing,” adding an authentic layer to his character’s artistic passion.
His journey in the series is one of continuous evolution, as he grapples with his past while striving to move forward. Adrian Dunbar himself noted the opportunity “to move a character on,” emphasizing that while “Ridley’s obviously never going to get away from his past, but life must go on.” This commitment to character progression ensures that Ridley remains a compelling and relatable figure.
Season 2 further explores Ridley’s path to healing, with the significant development of him “starting therapy sessions with a psychologist” to “cope with the loss of his wife and daughter.” This brave step highlights his ongoing struggle and determination to find peace, even as he dedicates himself to bringing justice to others.
2. DI Carol Farman (Bronagh Waugh)
Bronagh Waugh masterfully portrays DI Carol Farman, a character central to the narrative as Ridley’s former protégé and, crucially, his new team leader. Her journey in the series begins with a well-deserved promotion, a milestone she is determined to leverage to “make her mark in the force” and prove her leadership capabilities.
Carol is characterized as a “by-the-book police officer” and an “established leader” who possesses an admirable blend of qualities: she is “loyal, warm-hearted and intelligent.” These attributes make her “the perfect former colleague of Alex Ridley,” enabling her to appreciate his unconventional genius while maintaining the necessary procedural discipline.
Her personal life adds significant depth to her character, as she balances her demanding career with her role as a wife and mother. Carol is married to Geri (Bhavna Limbachia), and together they have a teenaged son, Jack (Tareq Al-Jeddal). In Season 2, her life becomes even more complex as she “continues juggling her personal and professional lives (especially with a baby on the way),” showcasing her resilience and dedication.
The dynamic between Carol and Ridley is a cornerstone of the show. Despite their shared history, their relationship now navigates a “readjusted power dynamic,” with Carol firmly “in charge of investigations.” It is her faith in Ridley’s abilities that leads her to “reach out to her former mentor for help in the complex case featured in episode 1,” a testament to their deep professional bond.
As the series progresses, Carol continues to tackle “another batch of complex cases in Season 2, such as a jewelry heist, an illegal rave, and a dangerous drug dealer.” Her unwavering commitment to justice, coupled with her personal responsibilities, makes her a truly compelling and relatable figure within the police force.
3. Annie Marling (Julie Graham)
Julie Graham portrays Annie Marling, a character who serves as a vital anchor in Alex Ridley’s personal life and a key emotional touchstone throughout the series. She is the owner of the local jazz club, Marling’s, a place that offers solace and community for Ridley outside of his demanding police work.
Annie’s connection to Ridley runs deep, stemming from a shared past. She “was best friends with his wife, Kate, and godmother to his daughter, Ella,” who were tragically lost in the house fire. This makes her one of the few people who can truly understand the depth of Ridley’s grief and his enduring emotional scars.
Consequently, Annie is described as “a great friend and support to Ridley,” and notably, “is really the only person he opens up to.” Her role as a confidante is crucial for Ridley’s emotional well-being, providing him with a safe space to process his feelings and articulate his struggles away from the pressures of his work.
The jazz club she owns is more than just a business; it’s a sanctuary where Ridley “often slips in for a drink and a tinkle on the piano,” allowing him to indulge in his passion for music. This environment serves as a therapeutic escape, showcasing a softer, more reflective side of the haunted detective.
In Season 2, Annie’s storyline introduces a new layer of personal drama, as she “is being pursued by Harry (the jewelry shop owner), which makes Ridley suspicious because he is protective of her.” This development hints at potential romantic entanglement and creates a new point of emotional complexity for Ridley, whose protective instincts are triggered by his affection for his long-time friend.
The world of ‘Ridley’ deepens as we move beyond the immediate investigative circle, revealing intricate personal dramas and introducing new figures who challenge and support our central characters. These individuals are not mere background players; they are crucial to the fabric of the show, adding layers of emotional complexity and driving the ongoing narratives of healing, justice, and everyday life in the North of England. Their stories intertwine with the high-stakes investigations, creating a truly immersive viewing experience that ScreenRant readers will undoubtedly appreciate.
4. Geri Farman (Bhavna Limbachia)
Geri Farman, portrayed by Bhavna Limbachia, stands as a quiet yet powerful anchor in the bustling life of DI Carol Farman. As Carol’s wife, Geri represents the vital domestic sphere that grounds our dedicated detective, reminding us of the personal sacrifices involved in a career in law enforcement. She is described as a stay-at-home wife, diligently managing household and babysitting duties, allowing Carol to fully immerse herself in her demanding investigations.
Geri’s character brings a much-needed balance to the often-tense police procedural, highlighting the family dynamics that are central to Carol’s development. While she is presented as understanding and caring, her storyline introduces a relatable tension with Carol concerning the possibility of having another baby. This personal aspiration adds depth to their relationship, showcasing the everyday struggles and desires that persist even amidst solving complex crimes.
Her presence underscores the themes of personal and professional juggling that Carol continually faces, making Carol’s character even more relatable to viewers. Geri’s unwavering support, despite the inherent challenges and the occasional rising tensions, is a testament to her strength and commitment to her family, solidifying her role as an indispensable part of the Farman household.
5. Michael Flannery (Aidan McArdle)
Aidan McArdle reprises his role as Michael Flannery, a character intrinsically linked to Alex Ridley’s tragic past and a significant antagonist early in the series. Initially convicted for the devastating house fire that claimed the lives of Ridley’s wife, Kate, and daughter, Ella, Flannery’s incarceration casts a long shadow over Ridley’s early retirement and his subsequent return to police work.
However, the narrative takes a dramatic turn in the Season 1 finale, where it is definitively proven that Michael Flannery was not the actual killer. This revelation not only clears his name but also deepens the mystery surrounding Kate and Ella’s deaths, suggesting a more complex and unsettling truth. Flannery’s journey from presumed culprit to exonerated man adds a critical layer to Ridley’s ongoing quest for justice and healing.
His character effectively embodies the themes of wrongful conviction and the enduring impact of unresolved grief. While initially appearing as the clear villain, Flannery evolves into a more nuanced figure, becoming a symbol of the imperfections of the justice system and the profound personal toll of such miscarriages. His continued presence, even in the background, serves as a powerful reminder of Ridley’s unhealed wounds and the lingering questions from his past.
6. Dr. Samantha Larsson (Suzanne Packer)
A vital new character introduced in Ridley Season 2 is Dr. Samantha Larsson, expertly portrayed by Suzanne Packer. Dr. Larsson serves as Alex Ridley’s therapist, playing a crucial role in his continued emotional journey and his arduous process of coping with the devastating loss of his wife and daughter. Her introduction signals a significant development in Ridley’s character arc, showcasing his brave step towards confronting his trauma.
In Season 2, Episode 1, Dr. Larsson’s sessions with Alex provide intimate insights into his internal struggles. She directly addresses his grief, asking if he can still perceive the presence of his loved ones and subtly reminding him that “Some people never lose hope of seeing them again.” These poignant exchanges highlight the depth of Ridley’s emotional scars and his ongoing battle to find peace after such profound tragedy.
Dr. Larsson’s role extends beyond mere therapy sessions; she represents a beacon of hope for Ridley, guiding him towards healing and helping him navigate the complexities of his past. Her professional yet empathetic approach underscores the show’s commitment to portraying the psychological realities of its characters, adding a layer of authenticity to Ridley’s personal development as he strives to move forward while still honoring his memories.
7. Harry Bentham (John Michie)
John Michie steps into the world of ‘Ridley’ in Season 2 as Harry Bentham, a new character whose presence immediately introduces fresh personal drama and intrigue. Harry is presented as a debonair and self-made jeweller, owning the shop that becomes central to a heist in Season 2, Episode 1. His initial involvement appears to be that of a victim, but a deeper investigation by Ridley soon uncovers layers of suspicion surrounding him.
Harry’s pursuit of Annie Marling, Ridley’s close friend and confidante, immediately sparks Ridley’s protective instincts. This budding romantic interest not only creates a new personal dynamic for Annie but also triggers a subtle rivalry with Ridley, who is fiercely protective of her. This emotional entanglement adds a compelling personal dilemma for Ridley, whose feelings for Annie are implicitly highlighted by his suspicions about Harry.
Furthermore, Harry’s character is interwoven with the season’s criminal plots. Ridley discovers an unexpectedly high insurance claim made by Harry for the stolen jewelry, and further digging reveals a questionable investment of half a million dollars in a diamond mine that turns out to be a scam. Harry Bentham thus embodies the multifaceted nature of new characters in ‘Ridley,’ serving as both a source of personal conflict for the main cast and a potential antagonist wrapped in a web of deceit and questionable dealings, making him a truly captivating addition to the series.
As the curtains draw on these compelling characters and their interwoven narratives, it becomes abundantly clear that ‘Ridley’ is more than just a crime procedural; it’s a profound exploration of the human spirit. From the nuanced portrayals of family life and the arduous journey of healing to the introduction of figures who challenge perceptions and stir deep emotions, the series masterfully balances intricate mysteries with deeply resonant personal stories. Each character, whether a central figure or a new addition, plays a vital role in enriching this complex tapestry, ensuring that viewers remain captivated not just by the crimes, but by the very humanity at the heart of every investigation. It’s this dedication to character depth and emotional authenticity that truly sets ‘Ridley’ apart, promising an enduring legacy in the landscape of British crime drama.
