BBC iPlayer Review 23rd August 2026

Welcome back to a nice, cosy pair of slippers, a cup of cocoa by the crackling fire and a good detective series on the television. Yes, Ludwig is back.

Series 1 introduced its crossword compiler and puzzle setter in a surprising way: he became part of the police force. Go back and watch the first series if you want the complete story, or simply rely on the handy recap at the beginning of Series 2’s opening episode.

David Mitchell returns as the puzzle setter turned police adviser, displaying his usual weary aplomb and witty intelligence. It is a style that works extremely well for him, particularly in Upstart Crow. Anna Maxwell Martin is his sort of sidekick, and this time we see much more of her character. She is also excellent at playing someone downbeat but quietly intelligent.

In fact, almost all the characters are a little downbeat. It is a definite part of the show’s appeal. Occasionally, though, we get flashes of Sherlock style brilliance from the lead. These moments sparkle and get the old grey cells ticking.

It is rather like watching Roy Cropper from Coronation Street being possessed by Hercule Poirot, only without the dodgy accent.

The puzzle behind the murder initially feels a little silly, but it develops cleverly and leads to a satisfying outcome, so it is worth sticking with. The unresolved story arc from Series 1 also continues to hang over Series 2. I will not give anything away, but it gives the programme an additional edge and an intriguing mystery that I like very much.

A thoughtful, cosy crime series with an excellent cast and a welcome sprinkle of greatness every so often. Like Series 1, it comes highly recommended.

Programme	Ludwig (Series 2)
Release Date	20 August 2026
Platform	BBC iPlayer
Viewing Link	BBC iPlayer