Get ready for a thrilling comeback! ITV's After the Flood is back, and it's bringing all the drama and intrigue that made it one of the top dramas of 2025. Join us as we dive into the world of Detective Joanna Marshall, played by the talented Sophie Rundle.
After the Flood is a gripping story that explores the aftermath of a devastating flood and the corruption that lurks beneath the surface. But here's where it gets controversial... it also delves into the effects of climate change on small communities, a topic that's sure to spark some heated discussions.
In this exclusive interview, Sophie Rundle gives us a sneak peek into the second series. She reveals how Joanna, now a new mom, is still reeling from the events of the first series and is determined to bring down the corrupt DS Phil Mackie. But as she delves deeper, she discovers that nothing is quite as it seems, and the small community she calls home has its fair share of secrets.
Sophie describes Jo as "salt of the earth" - a beloved member of her community who is fiercely moral and tenacious. She's the kind of protagonist who pushes boundaries and takes us on a journey beyond what most would dare. And let's not forget the dynamic between Jo and her mum, Molly, which is beautifully written and adds a layer of warmth and realism to the show.
Returning for the second series was a delightful experience for Sophie. She loved reuniting with most of the same cast and crew, creating a sense of cohesion between the two series. And let's be honest, who wouldn't be thrilled to shed that pregnancy bump? It's the little things, right?
Filming was a blast, with new characters bringing fresh energy to the set. Sophie shares some fun behind-the-scenes moments, like the unpredictable weather during a shoot on the moors. One minute they were battling rain and thunderstorms, and the next, they were enjoying a sunny lunch break like a school picnic. It's these little surprises that make filming so enjoyable.
But here's the part most people miss... After the Flood is not just your typical crime drama. It's a thought-provoking exploration of climate fiction, a genre that's rarely seen on screen. Sophie believes that climate change is an unavoidable part of modern life, and by incorporating it into entertainment, we can engage with the concept in a more approachable way. It's a delicate balance, and After the Flood manages to tackle it with sensitivity and subtlety.
As for what audiences can expect in the second series, Sophie teases a great finale that will surprise and delight. She assures us that the characters we love are given the justice they deserve, and are moved into new and exciting places. There's also a focus on Jo and Pat navigating parenthood, which adds a whole new dynamic to the show.
When asked about the possibility of a third series, Sophie playfully responds, "I don't know! They never tell actors, because we can't be trusted." She hints that it all depends on the audience's reception to the second series, leaving us on the edge of our seats.
Sophie also shares her excitement for the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, which she recently revisited. She reflects on the blur of new babies and revisiting old roles, feeling much older and more tired. But there's a comfort in returning to familiar characters and scaling them up for a new adventure.
When it comes to her favorite projects, Peaky Blinders and After the Flood take the cake. Peaky Blinders has been a significant part of her professional journey, while After the Flood has been a joyful experience thanks to the wonderful people involved, both in front of and behind the camera. Working with her real-life partner, Matt Stokoe, who plays Pat, added a strange and lovely dynamic to the set.
Sophie gushes about her favorite actors to work with, including Lorraine Ashbourne, who plays her mum in After the Flood. She also mentions Suranne Jones, Cillian Murphy, and the delightful Jill Halfpenny and Alan Armstrong, who joined the cast for the second series.
Balancing personal and work life, especially with a young family, is a constant challenge, Sophie admits. She emphasizes the importance of help and support, whether it's from family, a flexible partner, or outsourcing assistance. It's a team effort, and having understanding people around you makes all the difference.
As for living a little bit better in this noisy, volatile modern world, Sophie suggests patience, empathy, and a lot of chocolate biscuits. It's all about softening, listening, and trying not to get too hung up on things.
So, are you ready to dive back into the world of After the Flood? Catch the return of this gripping drama on Sunday night at 9 pm on ITV1 and ITVX. Watch, enjoy, and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments! After all, what's a good drama without a healthy dose of controversy and discussion?
