ITV’s acclaimed crime drama Grace is back for its highly anticipated sixth season, with John Simm once again stepping into the shoes of the haunted but brilliant Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. The new run, consisting of four feature-length episodes, premieres on January 19, 2026, and promises the same addictive blend of intricate mysteries, high-stakes suspense, and emotional depth that has made the series one of the UK’s most consistently compelling procedurals.

Adapted from Peter James’ bestselling novels by screenwriter Russell Lewis, Season 6 picks up with Roy Grace still carrying the emotional scars of previous cases — particularly the lingering mystery surrounding his missing wife Sandy. This season, Grace and his team face four fresh, standalone investigations that push them to their limits, both professionally and personally.

The familiar ensemble returns in full force. Richie Campbell reprises his role as Detective Sergeant Glenn Branson, Grace’s loyal but increasingly concerned friend; Zoë Tapper returns as Cleo Morey, Grace’s partner and forensic pathologist; Laura Elphinstone is back as Detective Sergeant Bella Moy; and Brad Morrison continues as the dependable Detective Constable Norman Potting. New faces and guest stars add fresh tension, with each case pulling Grace deeper into moral gray areas and personal reckonings.

Season 6 opens with “Dead Tomorrow,” in which the discovery of a young woman’s body in the River Adur leads Grace into a web of people trafficking, corruption, and hidden identities. Subsequent episodes explore cold cases, revenge killings, and a chilling blackmail plot that strikes uncomfortably close to Grace’s own life.

Simm’s portrayal of Roy Grace remains the series’ anchor. The actor brings quiet intensity, haunted eyes, and subtle vulnerability to a character who is brilliant at solving crimes but still struggling to solve the mystery of his own heart. Fans praise Simm’s ability to convey grief, determination, and dry humour in equal measure, making Grace one of television’s most relatable detectives.

The supporting cast delivers strong performances across the board. Campbell’s Branson provides warmth and humour, Tapper’s Cleo offers emotional grounding, and Elphinstone’s Bella brings sharp intelligence and quiet strength. The chemistry among the team feels lived-in and authentic — a hallmark of the series since its 2021 debut.

Visually, Season 6 maintains the show’s signature moody Brighton aesthetic: rain-slicked streets, grey skies, and shadowy corners that mirror the darkness of the cases. The pacing is deliberate — never rushed — allowing tension to build organically. Each episode runs approximately 90 minutes, giving room for character development alongside intricate plotting.

Critics who have previewed the season are enthusiastic. The Telegraph awarded four stars, calling it “a welcome return to form,” while Radio Times praised its “emotional stakes and clever misdirection.” Viewer anticipation is high, with #GraceS6 trending in the UK ahead of the premiere.

For fans who have followed Grace through five seasons of heartbreak, redemption, and relentless pursuit of justice, Season 6 promises to deliver the same gripping formula that made the series a staple of British crime television. As Roy Grace continues to wrestle with his past while solving crimes in the present, viewers are reminded why this show endures: it’s not just about catching killers — it’s about the human cost of doing so.

All episodes of Seasons 1–5 are available on ITVX and BritBox, with Season 6 premiering Sunday, January 19, 2026, on ITV and ITVX. For anyone who loves intelligent, character-driven crime drama, Grace continues to prove it has plenty left to say.