Keeley Hawes joins Izuka Hoyle in Prisoner series 2 as filming begins on Sky

Keeley Hawes is joining the cast of Sky's action thriller Prisoner for its second series, taking on the role of a notorious prisoner whose arrival places prison transport officer Amber Todd in serious danger.

The six-part drama has begun filming, with Izuka Hoyle returning as Amber alongside Hawes, who plays Dr Regan Weaver, a highly intelligent psychologist with a troubling reputation. Their characters are drawn together when a routine prison transfer develops into a dangerous situation that forces them to rely on one another.

The new series will build on Amber's experiences from the first instalment, while introducing a central relationship that promises to bring fresh complications to her already difficult life.

What Happens in Prisoner Series 2?

Amber is still struggling to recover from her previous experiences and repair the relationships within her family when she becomes involved in transporting Regan Weaver.

However, the assignment takes a dramatic turn when Amber is framed for murder, leaving her with little choice but to go on the run alongside the very prisoner she was supposed to be transporting.

The two women form an unexpected connection as they attempt to survive, despite coming from very different backgrounds and having little reason to trust each other.

Regan's experience as a psychologist adds another dimension to their relationship, particularly as Amber attempts to understand whether the woman beside her can genuinely be trusted.

Series creator Matt Charman has explained that the new episodes needed a prisoner capable of testing Amber more than anyone she has previously encountered, making Regan central to the direction of the story.

The circumstances surrounding the murder accusation and Regan's own criminal history have not yet been revealed.

Watch the trailer:

Who Is Joining Keeley Hawes in the Cast?

Hawes, whose previous television roles include Bodyguard, Line of Duty and The Durrells, joins Izuka Hoyle as one of the drama's two central performers.

The second series will also introduce Solly McLeod, David Dawson and Elijah Cook, although further details about their characters have not yet been confirmed.

Returning cast members include Catherine McCormack, Leonie Benesch, Finn Bennett, Ken Nwosu, Daniel Betts, Jessica Barker-Wren and Michele Austin.

Charman continues as writer and showrunner, working alongside deputy showrunner Sophie Petzal. Anthony Philipson is directing the series, with Kasia Adamik taking over directing duties for later episodes.

The production is being made by Binocular in association with Sky Studios, with support from the Welsh Government through Creative Wales.

When Will Prisoner Series 2 Be Released in the UK?

Sky has confirmed that filming is underway, but a premiere date for the second series has not yet been announced.

The six new episodes will be available through Sky in the UK and Ireland, with NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution handling international sales.

Further information about the release schedule and additional story developments is expected as production progresses.

For viewers who followed Amber's experiences in the first series, Hawes' arrival introduces a new character whose professional knowledge of human behaviour could make her an unpredictable companion as the pair attempt to escape the danger surrounding them.