AceShowbiz - Apple TV is gearing up for the return of its acclaimed crime thriller Criminal Record, with the highly anticipated second season premiering on April 22, 2026. A fresh trailer has been unveiled, spotlighting Peter Capaldi reprising his role as detective Daniel Hegarty, alongside Cush Jumbo who returns as June Lenker. Fans can look forward to seven new episodes releasing weekly every Wednesday, culminating in a season finale set for June 10.

The newly released trailer opens with a gripping voiceover that reveals a far-right gang involved in illegal weapons trafficking. Hegarty briefs his team about an impending attack orchestrated by this dangerous group, while the season’s antagonist ominously delivers a cryptic warning to the detectives. Throughout the trailer, the villain’s "little message" remains shrouded in mystery, heightening the suspense.

Within the intense exchanges showcased, Hegarty tells Lenker their mission is to "put out the fires before they start." He insists that this approach is "the only game in town," prompting a heated debate between the two. The tension escalates as Hegarty questions whether Lenker believes she is making the world safer than the day before, to which she candidly replies, "Because it's stupid." Action-packed scenes follow, featuring explosions, high-speed chases, and law enforcement in pursuit of the criminals. The trailer concludes with Hegarty reflecting on public perception, noting that people rarely acknowledge police successes, only remembering "the ones you miss."

The first season of Criminal Record, released in 2024, ended on a cliffhanger when Lenker uncovered that Hegarty had tampered with evidence in an ongoing investigation. Their uneasy partnership, marked by contrasting experience levels—Hegarty being seasoned and Lenker a rising officer—has fueled ongoing conflict between the two characters.

Season two reunites the detectives as they tackle the stabbing of a man at a political rally. As their investigation unfolds, they discover a larger conspiracy involving a bomb threat in London, raising the stakes significantly. This complex case challenges their ability to work together despite their differences.

Peter Capaldi is widely recognized for his role as the titular character on Doctor Who, while Cush Jumbo has notable credits including the Doctor Who spinoff Torchwood, as well as portraying Lucca Quinn on The Good Wife and its spin-off The Good Fight. Their dynamic performances anchor the series.

The supporting cast includes Shaun Dooley, Stephen Campbell Moore, Charlie Creed-Miles, Zoë Wanamaker, and Cathy Tyson. Season two introduces fresh faces such as Dustin Demri-Burns, Luca Pasqualino, Luther Ford, Lyndsey Marshal, and Peter Sullivan, expanding the narrative scope.

Criminal Record was created by BAFTA nominee Paul Rutman, who also serves as an executive producer alongside Capaldi, Jumbo, and Elaine Collins. The show has been critically acclaimed, holding a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting strong positive reception from reviewers.

The series offers a gritty portrayal of law enforcement grappling with complex criminal networks and moral ambiguities. Its blend of suspense, character-driven drama, and topical themes has resonated with audiences, securing its status as a standout Apple TV crime thriller.

Season two of Criminal Record premieres on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, with new episodes dropping weekly on Apple TV+. Viewers can expect a tense, action-packed continuation of the story that delves deeper into the challenges faced by detectives Hegarty and Lenker as they navigate dangerous investigations and personal conflicts.

As anticipation builds, the trailer offers a tantalizing glimpse into the season’s high stakes and complex characters, setting the stage for a compelling second chapter in this gripping crime drama.