One of this year’s unexpected TV successes, Sweetpea, is officially returning for a second season, with producers promising an even more “twisted” follow-up.
The Sky and Starz drama, which stars British actress Ella Purnell, follows the story of a young woman who, after being overlooked and pushed to her limits, discovers her true capabilities and unveils a dark new persona.
The gripping series, penned and executive produced by Pure writer Kirstie Swain, has been a hit in both the UK and US, and fans will be delighted to hear that a second instalment is officially underway.
In a joint statement, Sky and Starz hinted: “Rhiannon Lewis return with a vengeance as her killer secret continues to spiral and she becomes more twisted than ever.”
A release date is yet to be announced.
Lead actress Purnell, who also headlines another popular series from this year getting a second season, Fallout, expressed her gratitude to the show’s dedicated fans on Instagram. “I just wanted to say thank you guys so much for watching Sweetpea and for all your reactions and responses,” she said in a new video.
“It’s been so amazing to hear how much you guys like the show and we really appreciate it”, reports the Mirror.
“And I wanted to be the first person to tell you some very exciting news. Which is that… Sweetpea will be coming back for a second series! Very exciting. So, I can’t wait for you guys to see what we’ve been cooking up. Stay tuned!”
Initially released in October, the series garnered widespread critical acclaim from both fans and critics, with many regarding it as one of the standout new shows of 2024.
In November, Decider published an article titled: “I Didn’t Expect Ella Purnell’s Sweetpea To Be One Of the Best Shows Of 2024 … But Here We Are.”
The article continued: “With drama, murder, and a surprising number of laughs for an otherwise dark and serious series, Sweetpea is one of the most underrated series of 2024. Act accordingly!”
Forbes also sang the show’s praises, highlighting Purnell’s “terrific” performance and assuring viewers “you’ll find much to love in the enticingly twisted new series”.
Radio Times’ review described Sweetpea as “devilishly good fun” in their four-star review, stating: “In one of the most fun dark comedy thrillers in recent years, Sweetpea’s Rhiannon Lewis becomes an addictive-to-watch anti-villain that takes us on a thrill ride through her twisted form of justice.
“Billed as a ‘coming of rage’ story, Sweetpea is one of those rare limited series that leave you desperate for more; a perfect autumn binge-watch, it’s amplified by Isabel Waller-Bridge’s killer soundtrack.”
With a gripping first season of just six episodes, there’s no reason to miss out on the series that everyone’s been talking about before it makes its comeback.
Sweetpea is available on Sky and NOW in the UK and Starz in the US.