We already knew Olivia Colman was on-board or Broadchurch series 2, but, after a year of rumours, it has been confirmed that DI Alec Hardy himself David Tennant is returning, too. The duo who stunned audience in the original ITV series will also be rejoined by Arthur Davill (Reverend Paul Coates), Jodie Whittaker and Andrew Buchan (Danny Latimer's parents).

Olivia Colman David Tennant BroadchurchOlivia Colman [L] and David Tennant [R] in 'Broadchurch'

The storylines remains heavily under wraps and Steve November, ITV's director of drama, added that the production team will remain "tight tipped" until broadcast. "Suffice to say Chris (Chibnall) has delivered as always and the scripts are just as exciting as the first series," he said.

"The reaction to Broadchurch from UK viewers has been incredible," executive producer Jane Featherstone told RadioTimes.co.uk. "So, we'd like viewers to enjoy the new series knowing as little as possible about what's to come and for the story to unfold in real time."

It remains to be seen whether Charlotte Beaumont, Will Mellor, Vicky McClure and Pauline Quirke will reprise their roles, though we do know that the filming is to begin in Dorset shortly. James Strong - who helmed five episode of the first series - will direct the first two episodes.

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David Tennant's return for series 2 has been in doubt since his character suffered a heart attack at the end of the first. The Doctor Who star has also been shooting Broadchurch's US remake Gracepoint, with Breaking Bad's Anna Gunn.

Viewers always knew Broadchurch would return, with the end credits of the last series containing the line "Broadchurch will return."

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