The cast and creatives behind the second season of ITV's gripping medical drama Malpractice recently engaged in a Q&A session, revealing insights into the making of the show and what viewers can expect from its latest installment. The panel featured actor Tom Hughes, who plays the central character, Dr. James Ford, alongside fellow actor Helen Behan, writer and creator Grace Ofori-Attah, and executive producer Emma Luffingham. The discussion, moderated by journalist Kay Ribeiro, took place on May 9, 2025, and offered a deep dive into the series' development and thematic evolution.
Set against the backdrop of a large regional hospital in Yorkshire, Malpractice season two continues to explore the intense pressures faced by medical professionals. Hughes's character, Dr. Ford, is a senior psychiatrist grappling with the consequences of a life-or-death decision made during a particularly chaotic on-call shift. The narrative kicks off with Ford being tasked to assess Rosie, a new mother who is struggling after the birth of her second child. However, complications arise when he is pulled away to address a more serious case, leading to a disastrous outcome when Rosie returns in an agitated state after being prescribed lorazepam.
This season not only highlights the tension between medical decision-making and the ensuing blame culture within the healthcare system but also delves into the personal and professional struggles of its characters. The first season of Malpractice garnered significant attention, becoming the most-watched launch episode of a new drama on ITV1 in 2023, attracting 6.7 million viewers. The initial series focused on a doctor battling addiction amidst the under-staffing and under-funding challenges plaguing the NHS.
In season two, the Medical Investigation Unit (MIU) returns to investigate the circumstances surrounding Rosie's tragic case. Doctors Norma Callahan (Behan) and George Adjei (Jordan Kouame) are back to probe the inconsistencies and errors that emerge during their investigation. As they uncover hidden secrets and systemic issues within the hospital, the stakes rise, and the tension escalates, making each episode a thrilling experience.
One of the notable themes explored in the show is the office politics that pervade the medical field, particularly the sidelining of specialties like psychiatry in favor of more glamorous departments such as maternity. As Kouame noted, "There's this weird hierarchy in medicine, like psychiatry's the poor relation or something. You should see the psych unit, it's literally falling apart. We can't keep the patients safe." This commentary reflects the real-life challenges faced by many healthcare professionals and adds depth to the show's narrative.
The series does not shy away from depicting the complexities of its characters. Dr. Ford is portrayed as a well-meaning doctor caught in a web of competing demands, struggling with the consequences of his decisions. Meanwhile, obstetrician Sophia Hernandez (Selin Hizli), who delivered Rosie's baby, is depicted as a dedicated but traumatized professional, further complicating the investigation.
As the investigation unfolds, viewers are treated to a mix of suspense, character development, and social commentary. The series masterfully balances gripping drama with poignant reflections on the healthcare system. Each episode builds on the last, increasing the tension and drawing viewers deeper into the narrative.
Critics have praised the show for its ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats while also provoking thought about the realities of working in healthcare. A review from the Lancashire Evening Post highlighted how the show makes viewers reconsider their own perceptions of medical professionals and the decisions they make. The review noted, "Malpractice is compulsive viewing, but it may make you think twice before heading off to A&E." This sentiment resonates with many who have experienced the pressures of healthcare firsthand.
As the second season progresses, the MIU's investigation reveals not just the flaws in the healthcare system but also the personal toll on those involved. Dr. Callahan and Dr. Adjei find themselves navigating a labyrinth of secrets that challenge their professional integrity and personal convictions.
In addition to the intense plot, the show also offers glimpses into the personal lives of its characters. While some critics have pointed out that these moments can momentarily slow the pace, they serve to humanize the doctors and provide context for their actions. The balance between personal and professional struggles is a recurring theme that enriches the narrative.
The excitement surrounding Malpractice season two has led to a surge of interest in the series as a whole. Viewers who missed the first season are now eager to binge-watch, thanks to the show's standalone structure that allows new audiences to engage without prior knowledge of the storyline.
As the MIU digs deeper into the circumstances surrounding Rosie's death, the revelations become increasingly shocking. Each episode builds on the last, culminating in a gripping finale that leaves viewers questioning the very nature of accountability and care within the healthcare system.
Overall, Malpractice season two promises to deliver a compelling mix of drama, suspense, and social commentary, making it a must-watch for fans of medical thrillers. With all episodes of both seasons available on ITVX, audiences can immerse themselves in this thought-provoking narrative that challenges perceptions of the medical profession and the complexities of human behavior.
