The highly anticipated fifth series of the acclaimed crime drama “The Bay” is set to captivate audiences once again, as familiar faces and talented newcomers join forces to unravel a complex case. Marsha Thomason will reprise her role as Morecambe MIU’s Family Liaison Officer, alongside the returning cast members DS Jenn Townsend, Daniel Ryan, Erin Shanagher, and Andrew Dowbiggin. Joining the team in Morecambe is Olwen May, known for her work in “Happy Valley” and “Trying.”
The beloved character of Chris Fischer, portrayed by Barry Sloane, will also make a return. Georgia Scholes takes on the role of Chris’s daughter Erin, while David Carpenter and Emme Hayes reprise their roles as Jenn’s children, Conor and Maddie. Suzanne Packer, recognised for her performances in “Casualty” and “Keeping Faith,” joins as Jenn’s mother, Anne Townsend.
The gripping new season kicks off with the discovery of the lifeless body of 23-year-old university student Hannah on the edge of the docks. Returning to work after her father’s passing, Jenn sets aside her own grief to provide support to Hannah’s deeply divided family.
As the MIU team delves into the case, the stakes grow higher, uncovering hidden friendships and clandestine relationships within the student community. Amid rising tensions, Jenn and her team navigate the intricate layers of Hannah’s life, sifting through the secrets concealed within it. Jenn must confront her personal and professional challenges, solving the case, coping with her own loss, and mending her family relationships.
A stellar lineup of guest cast members joins the series, including Leanne Best, Neil Maskell, David Troughton, Stephen Wight, and Ceallach Spellman. Tara Lynne O’Neill joins as Sinead, the new partner of DI Tony Manning.
Catherine Oldfield, Creative Director of Tall Story Pictures and Executive Producer of “The Bay,” expressed her excitement for the upcoming series. She praised the captivating and emotionally charged writing of Daragh Carville and anticipated the enthralling experience that awaits “The Bay” fans. The production team is eager to commence filming with Marsha Thomason, Daniel Ryan, and the rest of the talented ensemble.
Commissioned by Polly Hill, ITV’s Head of Drama, “The Bay” will premiere on ITV1 and will be available for streaming on the ITVX platform. The series, co-created and written by award-winning writer and playwright Daragh Carville, is produced by Tall Story Pictures, a division of ITV Studios. Caroline Carver returns to the writing team, joined by Evan Placey. Shaun Evans will direct the first three episodes, while Waris Islam will helm episodes four to six. Martin Campbell will serve as the producer.
With international distribution handled by ITV Studios, “The Bay” has garnered widespread acclaim, captivating audiences in over 140 territories worldwide. Fans eagerly await the return of the critically acclaimed drama series, ready to be immersed once again in the captivating mysteries of Morecambe’s MIU team.
