Northern Ireland-based drama The Fall has been re-commissioned for a second series.

The contract follows news that the detective drama became BBC Two’s biggest series launch in eight years when it launched on 12 May, with an average audience of 3.5m and a 15.4% share.

Allan Cubitt’s psychological thriller follows Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, who is brought in when a Belfast serial killer, played by Jamie Dornan, evades capture by local police.

The series was commissioned by Janice Hadlow, Controller, BBC Two and Ben Stephenson, Controller of Drama Commissioning, and is executive produced by Stephen Wright through BBC Northern Ireland.

Ben Stephenson said: "The Fall has proved both a critical and ratings hit for BBC Two and another reminder of the resurgence of drama on the channel. With more of Allan Cubitt's intricate and thrilling plot revelations yet to unfold through the captivating performances of Gillian and Jamie, a second series is a must. Obviously we can't give too much away as the first series builds to a gripping cliff-hanger but what we can say is it will be surprising and intense as the first."

Writer and creator Allan Cubitt, added: "The BBC has been an incredibly supportive partner in this project and working with BBC Northern Ireland and the Artists Studio has been the best experience of my career to date. I always envisioned The Fall as a returning series and wish to congratulate both Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan who have played their parts to perfection."

Gub Neal, Producer, Artists Studio, commented: "We are thrilled with the success of The Fall and the recognition of the remarkable work of Allan Cubitt, our wonderful cast, Jakob's original direction and the sterling work done by the production team in Northern Ireland too. The BBC's recommission of The Fall fully underpins Artists Studio's commitment to put the writer at the heart of the creative process - and the success of the show is testimony that it really works."

(IT/MH)