The gripping Scottish crime drama “Karen Pirie” returns for its highly anticipated second season on October 2, 2025, exclusively on BritBox. Based on the bestselling novels by Val McDermid, the series follows the titular DS Karen Pirie, a young, sharp, and tenacious detective who often finds herself assigned to the force’s historic unsolved cases. This season, a decades-old murder in the picturesque and ancient university town of St Andrews is thrust back into the spotlight, forcing old wounds to reopen and new secrets to surface.

The catalyst for the new investigation is a popular true-crime podcast that re-examines the cold case, generating public interest and political pressure. Karen is tasked with leading a formal review, but she soon discovers that the podcast’s narrative is dangerously simplistic. As she peels back the layers of the past, she must navigate the hostility of a community that wants its history to stay buried, all while managing the modern-day pressures of media scrutiny and a skeptical police hierarchy.

Karen Pirie Season 2 cast names

1- Lauren Lyle as DS Karen Pirie

Lauren Lyle is a Scottish actress who has quickly become a standout talent in British television. She is best known to international audiences for her powerful and nuanced portrayal of Marsali in the hit Starz series Outlander, a role she played across multiple seasons. Lyle has also demonstrated her range in series like Vigil and Anzac Girls, showcasing her ability to handle both period drama and intense, contemporary storytelling with equal skill.

As DS Karen Pirie, Lyle is the undeniable heart and driving force of the series. She masterfully embodies Karen’s defining traits: a fierce intellect, a dogged determination for the truth, and a refreshing lack of patience for office politics. Lyle’s performance captures the character’s youthful energy and occasional impulsiveness, balanced by a deep-seated empathy for the victims, making her a modern and compelling detective who isn’t afraid to challenge the system.

2- Chris Jenks as DC Jason Murray

Chris Jenks is an English actor known for his roles in film and television, including his performance as Cook in the Netflix series Sex Education. He has a natural, grounded screen presence that allows him to portray relatable, everyman characters with authenticity. Jenks brings a specific energy that is well-suited to the dynamic of a police procedural, where partnership chemistry is paramount.

As DC Jason “Jase” Murray, Jenks plays Karen’s loyal and supportive work partner. His character provides a crucial counterbalance to Karen’s intense drive, often offering a more pragmatic or light-hearted perspective. Jenks and Lyle’s on-screen chemistry is key to the show’s success, portraying a partnership built on mutual respect and trust as they navigate the complexities of the cold case together.

3- Emer Kenny as River Wilde

Emer Kenny is a multi-talented actress, writer, and presenter. She has written for shows such as The Tunnel and The Trouble with Maggie Cole, and has appeared on screen in series like Father Brown and The Eichmann Show. Her background in writing gives her a unique insight into character development and narrative structure, enriching her performances.

In the role of River Wilde, Kenny plays the host of the true-crime podcast that reopens the historic murder case. Her character is ambitious, media-savvy, and driven by the pursuit of a compelling story, which often puts her at odds with Karen Pirie’s methodical, evidence-based police work. Kenny brings intelligence and a persuasive charm to the role, creating a formidable and intriguing rival for the protagonist.

4- Zach Wyatt as DS Phil Parhatka

Zach Wyatt is an actor known for his work in historical and fantasy television. He gained recognition for his role as Arsechild in the Netflix historical drama The Last Kingdom, showcasing his ability to inhabit rugged, physically demanding roles. His presence adds a layer of intensity and authority to any scene he is in.

As DS Phil Parhatka, Wyatt plays a senior detective who likely represents the “old guard” within the police force. His character may be skeptical of Karen’s methods or resentful of the attention her cold case is receiving. Wyatt’s performance brings a necessary friction, creating professional obstacles for Karen and highlighting the generational and methodological divides within the department.

5- Rakhee Thakrar as Bel Richmond

Rakhee Thakrar is an acclaimed actress known for her versatile roles across stage and screen. She is perhaps best known for her role as Emily in the Netflix series Sex Education and for her long-running role as Shabnam Masood in the BBC soap EastEnders. Thakrar has a remarkable ability to convey deep emotion and complexity, earning her critical praise and a devoted following.

As Bel Richmond, Thakrar plays a character deeply connected to the historic case. She could be a family member of the victim, a key witness from the past, or a present-day figure whose life was irrevocably shaped by the original investigation. Thakrar’s proven talent for drama ensures that her character will be emotionally resonant and pivotal to unraveling the mystery at the heart of the season.

6- Steve John Shepherd as DI Simon Lees

Steve John Shepherd is a seasoned actor with an extensive career in British television. He is widely recognized for his role as Michael Moon in the long-running BBC soap EastEnders. Shepherd has a knack for portraying complex, sometimes morally ambiguous characters, bringing a quiet intensity and depth to his performances that make them consistently compelling.

In the role of DI Simon Lees, Shepherd plays Karen Pirie’s direct supervisor. His character is likely a career-minded officer who is cautious about the potential political fallout from reinvestigating a sensitive cold case. Shepherd’s performance would capture the tension of a manager who must balance supporting his brilliant but unorthodox detective with the demands and pressures from his own superiors.

7- John Michie as Fergus Sinclair Snr

John Michie is a veteran Scottish actor with a formidable presence on British television for decades. He is best known for his roles as DI Robbie Ross in Taggart and as Guy Self in the medical drama Holby City. Michie brings a rugged authenticity and a wealth of experience to his roles, often playing authoritative or world-weary characters.

As Fergus Sinclair Snr, Michie’s character is almost certainly a key figure from the original murder investigation. He could be a suspect who was never charged, a witness who held back information, or a family patriarch guarding dark secrets. Michie’s casting suggests a performance filled with gravitas and hidden motives, representing the long shadow the past casts over the present.

8- Julia Brown as Catriona Grant

Julia Brown is a Scottish actress known for her powerful performances in period and contemporary drama. She delivered a standout performance as Etta in the World War II series World on Fire and has also appeared in The Last Kingdom. Brown has a compelling screen presence that conveys both strength and vulnerability, making her well-suited for emotionally charged roles.

As Catriona Grant, Brown plays a character intrinsically linked to the cold case. She may be the sister or close friend of the original victim, someone whose life has been defined by the unsolved tragedy. Brown’s ability to portray deep-seated emotion will be crucial in exploring the lasting impact of the crime on those left behind, giving the investigation its necessary human heart.

9- Saskia Ashdown as DC Isla Stark

Saskia Ashdown is an actress building a solid career in British television with roles in series like The Control Room and Shetland. Her experience in the crime genre makes her a natural fit for the world of Karen Pirie. Ashdown brings a fresh, focused energy to her roles, often playing competent and determined characters.

As DC Isla Stark, Ashdown plays another member of Karen Pirie’s investigative team. Her character represents the newer generation of police officers, likely eager to prove herself and learn from Karen’s unique approach to detective work. Stark’s presence helps to flesh out the professional environment, showing Karen’s influence on her colleagues and the collaborative nature of the modern police force.