Netflix has once again stirred the waters of the Emmy race with its latest thriller, Dept. Q, a Scottish crime drama that debuted just days before the eligibility deadline for this year’s awards. The nine-episode series, starring Matthew Goode as the abrasive yet brilliant Detective Chief Inspector Carl Morck, was submitted for consideration in the Drama Series categories on June 6, 2025, igniting buzz among critics and viewers alike.
Following in the footsteps of Netflix’s 2024 hit Baby Reindeer, which swept the Limited Series categories after a similarly late release, Dept. Q has already made a significant impact. It soared to No. 2 on Netflix’s Top 10 chart shortly after its May 29 premiere and boasts a 94% audience score alongside a strong 84% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This acclaim reflects the show’s gripping narrative and compelling performances, positioning it as a serious contender in a crowded Emmy field that includes heavyweights like Severance, The White Lotus, and The Last of Us.
Based on the beloved 10-book series by Danish crime writer Jussi Adler-Olsen, Dept. Q transplants the original Copenhagen setting to the atmospheric streets of Edinburgh. The story follows Morck, a damaged detective with a sharp mind but a difficult personality, who is tasked with leading a cold case unit. Goode’s portrayal brings a complex mix of brilliance and abrasiveness to the screen. As he told Country & Town House, "He is a brilliant detective, but a horrible colleague. He’s extremely abrasive and irascible, vitriolically rude to anyone he can get his hands on, really." This conflicted character has resonated with audiences, who are drawn to his flawed humanity as much as his investigative prowess.
Goode’s collaboration with director Scott Frank, renowned for his work on The Queen’s Gambit and Godless, adds a layer of prestige and creative depth to the series. Frank, who wrote the character with Goode in mind, has crafted a show that balances dark themes with sharp intelligence and nuanced character development. Goode reflected on this partnership, saying, "Scott Frank is an amazing director... We tested our relationship on this, I think! But we’re still friends." Their long-standing friendship and creative synergy shine through in the show’s meticulous storytelling and atmospheric tension.
Filming took place extensively across Edinburgh and Glasgow, with Goode noting that it was his first time visiting Edinburgh, despite being 46 years old. He described the city as "staggeringly pretty" and praised how its medieval-modern vibe suits the show’s tone perfectly. Among memorable filming experiences, Goode recalled shooting on a ferry in northern Scotland, where many cast members contended with seasickness but embraced the rugged beauty of the location.
The series’ strong ensemble cast also includes Chloe Pirrie as Merritt Lingard, the missing prosecutor whose cold case Morck investigates, alongside Boardwalk Empire’s Kelly Macdonald and Game of Thrones’ Kate Dickie. Both Goode and Pirrie are submitted for Lead Actor and Lead Actress in a Drama Series, respectively, with the supporting cast expected to compete in their categories as well.
While Netflix has yet to officially renew Dept. Q for a second season, enthusiasm among cast and crew is palpable. Goode expressed his hope for a continuation, noting that Netflix typically takes about a month to assess viewership figures. "There are 10 books to mine more stories from," he said, "so we’ve all got our fingers crossed." Pirrie echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the show’s importance for the cast and for Scotland’s television landscape.
Creator Scott Frank has revealed plans for a second season that would weave together another cold case with a current investigation, promising a fresh yet connected storyline. Unlike the first season’s nine episodes, Frank suggested the follow-up might be shorter, possibly six episodes, to maintain narrative tightness. He also hinted at further character development, including exploring the intriguing home life of Morck and his colleagues.
Indeed, Goode has expressed excitement about delving deeper into the personal lives of the ensemble, particularly Akram Salim, played by Alexej Manvelov. He joked about the actor undergoing eight weeks of Krav Maga training to enhance upcoming fight scenes, envisioning Akram as a "Syrian Jason Bourne." The show’s unresolved mysteries, such as the shooting of Morck and colleague James Hardy, are expected to carry over, adding suspense and continuity for returning viewers.
The complex dynamics between characters also promise rich storytelling opportunities. Goode discussed the nuanced relationship between Morck and his therapist, Dr. Rachel Irving (Kelly Macdonald), suggesting a possible romantic entanglement but also valuing the portrayal of a deep friendship without necessarily crossing into romance. Frank noted the chemistry between Morck and his ex-wife, hinting at potential future conflicts and connections that could add emotional layers to the series.
Beyond the screen, Goode shared glimpses of his personal life, mentioning his daughter’s GCSE exams and his affection for his Romanian rescue dog, Suki. He described himself as a homebody, preferring quiet moments over the Hollywood hustle, and reflected fondly on past projects, including the camaraderie of filming Birdsong in Budapest.
As Dept. Q makes its mark on both audiences and awards voters, the series stands as a testament to the power of well-crafted crime drama infused with character complexity and atmospheric storytelling. With a talented cast, visionary direction, and a rich literary foundation, it’s no surprise that viewers and critics alike are eager to see where Carl Morck’s journey leads next.
