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Arts & Culture · 5 min read

Grace Returns With Star-Studded Episode In Brighton

ITV’s detective drama delivers suspense and a remarkable ensemble as the murder of a university student brings together familiar faces and rising stars.

Fans of British crime drama had their Sunday night plans set as ITV’s Grace returned with the much-anticipated second episode of its sixth series, titled "Capture You Dead," on April 5, 2026. Based on Peter James’s bestselling novels and filmed in the atmospheric city of Brighton, the series continues to draw viewers with its compelling mysteries and a blend of established and emerging acting talent.

John Simm once again leads the cast as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, bringing his signature intensity to the role. Simm, who many remember from Life on Mars and Doctor Who, is joined by Richie Campbell as DI Glenn Branson—a partnership that has become the backbone of the show. Zoe Tapper also returns as Cleo Morey, rounding out the core investigative team.

This week’s episode dives into the chilling murder of university student Charlie Downing, whose body is discovered in a sea lock. As reported by WalesOnline and TVGuide.co.uk, Grace and Branson are thrust into a web of campus secrets, desperate to uncover the truth behind Charlie’s untimely death. The plot thickens as the detectives realize the university harbors secrets that could be key to solving the case. According to TVGuide.co.uk, Grace soon finds himself on the trail of a killer determined to keep a crucial truth buried.

The show’s casting for "Capture You Dead" is a veritable who’s who of British television. Among the most notable guest stars is Lucy Speed, who takes on the role of Gina Poole. At 49, Speed’s career spans four decades, but she’s perhaps best known for her ten-year run as Natalie Evans (later Price) on EastEnders from 1994 to 2004. Her character’s dramatic storylines, including a tumultuous marriage and a series of affairs and betrayals, made her a household name. After EastEnders, Speed went on to star as DC Stevie Moss in The Bill and has appeared in acclaimed series such as Unforgotten, Marcella, and the podcast The Archers as Stella Pryor. Most recently, she’s been seen in The Feud and The Hack.

Amir Wilson, a rising star at just 22, plays Noah Welling. Wilson’s career may be young, but his resume is impressive. He gained international recognition as Will Parry in all three seasons of His Dark Materials (2019-2022), where his portrayal of the brave and complex Will won critical acclaim. Wilson also starred as Tiuri in Netflix’s The Letter for the King (2020), played Dickon in the film adaptation of The Secret Garden (2020), and most recently appeared as Philetius in the 2024 film The Return and as Charlie Vincent in The Famous Five. His presence in Grace signals the show’s commitment to mixing veteran actors with fresh faces.

Another standout in the guest cast is Peter De Jersey, who brings gravitas to the role of Stephen Welling. Now 60, De Jersey is fondly remembered for his role as charge nurse Steve Waring in Holby City from 2000 to 2003—a character whose tragic death in a car crash left a lasting impact on viewers. De Jersey’s extensive career includes roles as Jerome Taylor in The Bill, SOCO Brian Young in Broadchurch, and Goran in Atlantis. He’s also appeared in Warrior Nun, Sanctuary, and Steal, demonstrating a versatility that has kept him in demand across genres.

Robert Lonsdale appears as Carl Orton, bringing with him credits from Chewing Gum, The Interceptor, Finding Alice, Chivalry, and The Marlow Murder Club. Michelle Greenidge, guest starring as Dr. Noreen Allen, is another familiar face, known for her roles in After Life, Mandy, Code 404, Queenie, and Doctor Who. Greenidge’s recent stint as Officer Benjamin Brice’s mother in Death in Paradise left fans reeling after her character’s shocking demise.

Supporting cast members add further depth and variety. Rachelle Diedericks and Dylan Corbett-Bader, both from Andor, play Rachel Sanderson and Davey Carlton, respectively. Shyvonne Ahmmad from This Town, Kaja Chan of Bridgerton, Dana Haqjoo from Showtrials, Charlie Beck of Masters of the Air, Michael Epp from Red Eye, and Verity Marshall—who has appeared in Industry and Holby City—round out the guest roster. The main cast is further supported by Laura Elphinstone as DS Bella Moy, Brad Morrison as DC Nick Nicholl, Rebecca Scroggs as Ari Branson, Juliette Motamed as DC Vee Wilde, and Zoe Tapper as Cleo Morey.

According to Mirror.co.uk, the series continues to air on Sunday nights at 8pm, keeping its loyal audience hooked with its mix of suspenseful storytelling and familiar Brighton backdrops. The city itself almost feels like a character, its moody seaside atmosphere providing the perfect setting for the show’s dark mysteries.

What sets this episode apart isn’t just its gripping storyline, but the way it weaves together the talents of actors from such a broad spectrum of British television. From soap opera icons to rising stars and respected veterans, "Capture You Dead" is a showcase of the UK’s acting prowess. As TVGuide.co.uk points out, it’s not just the mystery that keeps viewers coming back, but the thrill of seeing beloved actors in new roles, sometimes playing against type.

For those who have followed Grace since its debut, the sixth series is proof that the show’s formula—complex cases, layered characters, and a steady stream of guest stars—remains as potent as ever. The murder of Charlie Downing is more than just another case; it’s a lens through which the show explores themes of secrecy, ambition, and the lengths people will go to protect the truth.

With its compelling blend of story, setting, and star power, "Capture You Dead" cements Grace as one of ITV’s standout dramas. Whether you’re tuning in for the mystery, the nostalgia of seeing old favorites, or the thrill of discovering new talent, this episode delivers on all fronts, leaving viewers eager for the next twist in the tale.

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