The drama will return to BBC One later this year, with glamorous gangster’s wife Francesca (Polly Walker) and long-suffering prisoner’s Mum, Harriet (Pippa Haywood) joined by two new characters; Kim (Sally Carman), a mother and the wife of a man falsely accused of a terrible crime and Aisling (Misfits star Karla Crome), the gutsy teenage daughter of a repeat offender.

The BBC has teased: “As each of the women struggles with the fall-out from their loved ones’ imprisonment, viewers can expect even more crime and jeopardy, joy and laughter, sex and secrets. Over four episodes viewers will enjoy an even more intense, high octane mix of thriller, romance, tension and wit. This series Francesca is forced to confront the ugly reality of her husband’s world. As the line blurs between criminal and criminal’s wife, she and her family have to face devastating consequences. Along with Harriet, Kim and Aisling’s stories, Prisoners’ Wives builds to an exhilarating finale.”

Other returning characters include Iain Glen (Downton Abbey) as Francesca’s gangster husband Paul and David Bradley (Harry Potter) as Frank, Francesca’s father. Adam Gillen (Fresh Meat) is back as Harriet’s son Gavin and Anne Reid (Last Tango in Halifax) also joins the cast for Series 2.

> Buy Series 1 on DVD on Amazon.

Writer Julie Gearey commented: “It’s been very exciting to return to the world of Prisoners’ Wives and have the opportunity to create fresh stories for Francesca and Harriet and introduce our brand new characters, Kim and Aisling. The second season will continue the mix of compelling character driven stories with some dark twists and more than a little romance.”

Actress Pippa Haywood added: “What a thrill and a delight it is to return to Prisoners’ Wives. Harriet is a character of such range and depth it is an absolute pleasure to step back into her shoes again. She returns with great gusto and continues to grow through her prison connections. She has the chance of a new romantic relationship and continues to struggle to form a better relationship with her son. There are fantastic new characters and story lines that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats once again. We have had such an amazing response from the public – I’m sure they will enjoy this series as much as the first. I think they’re in for a treat.”

Are you looking forward to Series 2? Let us know below…