‘Grace’ Returns for Season 6: John Simm Leads Intense New Mysteries in Brighton Crime Drama

The acclaimed ITV crime series Grace has made a triumphant return with its sixth season, delivering four gripping, feature-length episodes that showcase John Simm’s commanding performance as the haunted yet brilliant Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. Filming wrapped in late 2025 after beginning in Brighton during the summer, with the new run premiering in spring 2026 on ITV1 and streaming on ITVX—building on the show’s massive success and Peter James’ bestselling novels.

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Grace, starring John Simm as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace …

Adapted faithfully from James’ Roy Grace series, the drama follows the tenacious Brighton detective tormented by his wife’s long-ago disappearance (resolved in prior seasons) while tackling complex murders and personal demons. Season 6 picks up the emotional threads from Season 5’s cliffhangers, including the tragic loss of Roy and partner Cleo Morey’s unborn child, and the shock revelation of a son from his past. These personal stakes intertwine with high-pressure investigations, creating a potent mix of suspense and heartfelt drama.

John Simm reprises his role as Roy Grace with intensity and nuance, earning praise for portraying a detective who bends rules for justice while grappling with grief and new family dynamics. The core team returns: Richie Campbell as loyal DI Glenn Branson, Zoë Tapper as forensic pathologist Cleo Morey, Laura Elphinstone as sharp DS Bella Moy, and Brad Morrison as DC Nick Nicholl. Their chemistry grounds the series, adding authenticity and emotional weight to every case.

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Guest stars elevate the season, including Rishi Nair (from Grantchester) and Hannah McClean (Blue Lights), bringing fresh dynamics to Brighton’s criminal underworld. Episodes adapt novels like Left You Dead, Picture You Dead, Stop Them Dead, and One of Us Is Dead (with one potentially original or from recent books), featuring standalone mysteries involving fraud, trafficking, blackmail, and high-stakes threats—such as stadium endangerment and gang pursuits.

The Brighton setting remains a character in itself: sunny beaches contrast with shadowy underbellies, from washed-up bodies to organized crime rings. Directors and writers maintain the show’s signature pacing—tense build-ups, clever twists, and moral dilemmas—while deepening character arcs. Roy’s journey explores forgiveness, fatherhood, and resilience amid escalating dangers.

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Grace – Watch Episode – ITVX

Critically, Grace continues to shine: strong viewership (millions streaming on ITVX), positive reviews for Simm’s “mesmerizing” lead, and acclaim for balancing procedural thrills with human depth. Executive producers highlight the joy of returning to Brighton with a “brilliant cast and crew,” promising higher stakes and emotional resonance. John Simm noted the rarity of playing one character long-term: “It’s comfortable… like putting on the suit again.”

As Season 6 unfolds, it cements Grace as one of the UK’s most compelling modern crime dramas—intelligent, character-driven, and unmissable. Previous seasons stream on ITVX for catch-up. With Roy Grace facing his toughest challenges yet, this season delivers the suspense and heart fans crave.