A true icon of primetime British drama, Nicola Walker has starred in some of the nation’s favourite crime shows. From ITV’s cold case drama Unforgotten to the spy show Spooks, the much-loved actress boasts an endless canon of excellent TV series – and one of her best is coming to Netflix this Sunday.
Annika, which ran for two seasons from 2023 until August last year, follows Detective Inspector Annika Strandhed, the sharp leader of Glasgow’s Marine Homicide Unit, as she investigates grisly murders that wash up in the waterways of Scotland.
The Last Tango in Halifax actress stars in the title role, which viewers have hailed as “Nicola at her best”.
Ahead of the show’s arrival on Netflix, find out all you need to know…
What is Annika about?
Set against Scotland’s dramatic coastal landscapes, the series follows DI Annika Strandhed, a Norwegian single mum who has recently been transferred to Glasgow’s Marine Homicide Unit in Scotland.
As the head of the unit, Annika investigates complex crimes across the waterways of Scotland, while caring for her rebellious teenage daughter.
In both seasons of the show, Annika breaks the fourth wall, sharing her wry and witty observations with the audience.
What have viewers said about the show?
The series boasts an impressive 83 per cent Rotten Tomatoes score and has been hailed by viewers as a “must-watch”.
Taking to social media, one person wrote: “Enjoying #Annika. A nice antidote to most procedurals. Unshouty and darkly funny Scottish Noir. And of course, Nicola Walker is at her understated best,” while another added: “Nicola Walker is absolutely superb as #Annika, brilliant.”
Who stars in Annika?
As well as Nicola Walker, fans can look forward to seeing a number of familiar faces in the series.
Jamie Sives, whose TV credits include Guilt and Game of Thrones, plays the role of DS Michael McAndrews. Katie Leung, who has previously starred in Harry Potter and Bridgerton, plays the part of DC Blair Ferguson, while Ukweli Roach (Grantchester) plays new recruit, DS Tyrone Clarke, and Paul McGann (Luther) plays Annika’s partner, Jake Strathearn.
Annika cancelled after two seasons
In August last year, UKTV confirmed that there were no plans for a new season.
“We are incredibly proud of the success of Annika on U+Alibi, but there are no current plans for a third series,” a spokesperson told RadioTimes.com.
Annika arrives on Netflix on Sunday 16 August.
