Hugely popular ITV detective drama begins filming in Scotland

ITV’s hit new detective series, Karen Pirie, has begun filming in Scotland.

World Productions has announced that filming on the second series has commenced.

The new series will feature three episodes of 120 minutes and is based on Val McDermid’s A Darker Domain and adapted by Emer Kenny.

Lauren Lyle is back as Karen Pirie, the fearless young Scottish investigator.

Chris Jenkins, Zach Wyatt, Steven John Shepherd, Emer Kenny, and Rakhee Thakrar all return too.

The series begins in 1984 when a young heiress to the Grant oil fortune, Catriona Grant, is kidnapped with her young son.

The official synopsis reads: “In the turmoil of 1984, when young heiress to the Grant oil fortune Catriona Grant is kidnapped at gunpoint with her young son, it’s assumed that the motivation is political.

The huge investigation creates an uncontrollable press storm… but when the culprits unexpectedly fall silent, the case runs cold. Cat and Adam are never seen again.

“Forty years later, when a man’s body is discovered, Karen Pirie is assigned to reopen the case in complete secrecy.

“With the first key piece of evidence in decades, Karen must try to unlock one of Scotland‘s most infamous mysteries, whilst battling increasing media attention.

“What happened to Cat Grant and why do sinister forces want the secrets of her disappearance to remain hidden?”

Writer Kenny shared her excitement at the return of the drama, sharing in a statement: “I’ve never related to a character more than Karen Pirie.

“When she’s laughing, I’m laughing. When she’s stressed, I’m stressed. When she turns to drink… well, you get the idea.

“So I’m delighted to be bringing her back to your screens, now a Detective Inspector with more power, more confidence, and some of the same iconic sweater vests.

“We have a dazzling cast, a heroic crew, and epic plot twists.

“If Karen Pirie isn’t already your favourite detective, I promise she will be soon.”