Annika: Nicola Walker’s Acclaimed Crime Drama That Fans Still Want to See Return

With a 91% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and viewers still calling for more episodes, Annika has become a favourite among crime-drama fans — despite the lack of plans for a third series.

Starring Nicola Walker, Jamie Sives, Katie Leung and Ukweli Roach, the Scottish-set detective drama offers a distinctive take on the familiar police procedural. Rather than focusing solely on murder investigations, it combines sharp humour, literary references and character-driven storytelling with the striking landscapes of Scotland.

The series first aired in 2021 and is based on the BBC Radio 4 drama Annika Strandhed. It follows Detective Inspector Annika Strandhed as she leads the fictional Marine Homicide Unit, tackling complex cases while navigating the challenges of her own life.

One of the show’s most unusual features is Annika’s habit of breaking the fourth wall to speak directly to viewers. The approach turns the audience into her silent confidants, giving the drama a more personal and often playful quality.

Although Annika returned for a second series in 2023, fans were disappointed when it emerged that a third instalment was not planned. Its cancellation has done little to diminish viewers’ enthusiasm, with many continuing to praise its originality, performances and beautiful setting.

What makes Annika different from other crime dramas?

Annika is an unconventional detective whose lively personality conceals a more complicated inner world. She has Norwegian heritage, feels like an outsider and approaches both her work and personal life in her own way.

The BBC has described her as someone whose anxieties are often masked by an energetic manner and a love of motorboats. She also has a strong sense of humour, although her colleagues do not always share it.

Walker explained the series’ defining creative choice when it launched. Creator Nick Walker wanted the protagonist to address the audience directly, making viewers feel involved in the investigation rather than simply watching events unfold.

The result is a crime drama that balances murder cases with wit, literary allusions and Annika’s personal observations. For many viewers, the appeal lies as much in her personality and the chemistry among the cast as it does in the mysteries themselves.

Why are viewers still praising the series?

Despite the familiar murder-investigation format, Annika has earned a loyal following for its unusual storytelling, understated comedy and strong ensemble performances.

The series holds a 91% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers praising Walker’s portrayal of a detective who can be both sharp-witted and emotionally complicated. The show’s Scottish scenery is another major draw, giving its investigations a distinctive atmosphere.

Critics have also highlighted the drama’s potential beyond its existing episodes. One review in The Herald argued that the Marine Homicide Unit still had plenty of stories to tell, even if not every element of the second season came together perfectly. Another reviewer praised the series for restoring their faith in television drama.

Audience reactions have been just as enthusiastic. One viewer described the show as underrated, praising its humour, Walker’s performance and the chemistry among the cast. They felt the investigations were not always the main attraction; instead, it was the characters’ charm and wit that made the series stand out.

Another fan highlighted how effectively Annika’s direct addresses draw viewers into the story. Her observations, literary interests and distinctive approach to solving crimes make the show feel different from a conventional police procedural. The supporting cast, they added, contributes meaningfully rather than simply filling the gaps between Annika’s cases.

Other viewers have praised the drama’s subtle humour, which can catch audiences off guard, and its beautiful Scottish setting. For many, the disappointment is simple: they want more episodes.

Will Annika return for season 3?

For fans hoping to see Annika and her team return, the news has been disappointing.

After the first series proved successful, Annika was renewed for a second season in 2023. However, in a statement reported by RadioTimes.com, a UKTV spokesperson said there were no current plans for a third series.

“We are incredibly proud of the success of Annika on U&Alibi, but there are no current plans for a third series,” the spokesperson said.

The announcement left viewers frustrated, particularly those who believed the Marine Homicide Unit still had plenty of stories to explore. Some also pointed to the relatively short seasons and episodes as a reason they wanted more.

Although the statement ruled out current plans for another UKTV series, it did not mean the existing episodes had lost their appeal. The show’s audience continues to recommend it to other crime-drama fans, with many expressing the hope that it might return someday.

Where can you watch Annika?

The original article reports that Annika is available on BBC iPlayer. Streaming availability can change, so viewers should check the platform for the latest listing in their region.

The series comprises two seasons, following DI Annika Strandhed and her team as they investigate murders connected to Scotland’s waterways.

For anyone who has yet to discover the drama, Annika offers a refreshing blend of crime-solving, dry humour, personal storytelling and spectacular scenery. And with fans still asking for a third season, it’s clear that the detective’s distinctive approach has made a lasting impression.