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After the Flood Series 2: A New Crime Drama With the Best TV Villain in Years
ITV’s After the Flood returns with a stronger, darker second series, proving that it is more than just a climate-themed crime drama. The show, which began with a dramatic flood engulfing a Yorkshire town, now explores the aftermath of ecological disaster as fires ravage the moorland of the fictional Waterside.
What sets this series apart is not only its environmental backdrop but also the presence of one of the most chilling TV villains in recent years: DS Phil Mackie.
A Bigger Threat in Series 2
The season opens with new dangers that go beyond the usual murder mystery. The local landowning family, long suspected of foul play, appears to be behind deliberate fires on the moors. As protesters explain, burning the heather causes the land to dry out and prevents water from being absorbed—meaning it runs off quickly and increases the risk of flooding.
Meanwhile, disturbing red crosses are being painted across the town, and fly-tippers are making life difficult for locals.
This growing tension draws Joanne Marshall (Sophie Rundle) back into the investigation. Now a full detective and mother to a one-year-old, Jo’s personal life clashes with her professional responsibilities as she uncovers a series of crimes.
A Dark Discovery
While driving to her daughter’s first birthday party, Jo stops to investigate a crashed van. Inside, she finds a blood-stained Ford Transit that leads to the body of a young church warden, killed by blunt force and later shot.
By the end of the episode, a second body is found, also shot in the chest—suggesting a deadly pattern.
Strong Supporting Cast Brings Depth
Sophie Rundle delivers a compelling lead performance, but the supporting cast truly elevates the series:
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Lorraine Ashbourne returns as Jo’s mother, Molly, a local councillor known for her earthy humour.
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Philip Glenister plays the returning corrupt property developer Jack Radcliffe, whose presence continues to threaten the town.
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Nicholas Gleaves portrays DS Phil Mackie, Jo’s corrupt superior. His performance is chilling, with Mackie manipulating Jo and her estranged husband, Pat, using threats and secrets to keep them under his control.
A Corrupt Force to Fear
Mackie’s influence over Jo is deeply disturbing. Although she and her husband know he is dangerous, he holds powerful leverage over them. He even suggests Jo should accept an award for her police work—an attempt to publicly endorse his version of events and bind her to his corruption.
By the end of the first episode, Jo and Pat are secretly investigating Mackie, despite the risk of prison for Pat.
Beyond ‘Happy Valley-lite’
While After the Flood has been compared to Happy Valley, this label does not fully capture its unique identity. The series is defined by its ecological themes, intense mystery, and strong character development.
Jo may not be Catherine Cawood, but she does not need to be. The true standout is DS Phil Mackie, who is shaping up to be as terrifying and unforgettable as some of TV’s most notorious villains.
Conclusion
After the Flood continues to build suspense and tension, delivering a compelling blend of crime, climate crisis, and psychological drama. With a standout villain and a strong cast, this series is a must-watch for crime drama fans.
