David Mitchell says ‘former self would be pleased’ as Ludwig returns to Cambridge for season two
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The Peep Show star is back as puzzle-loving detective John ‘Ludwig’ Taylor – and says filming in Cambridge brings back memories of his student days.
David Mitchell has revealed why returning to Cambridge to film hit detective comedy Ludwig feels particularly special – because his younger self would have been thrilled to see it happen.
The 52-year-old comedian and actor is back as puzzle-loving detective John ‘Ludwig’ Taylor for the second series of the BBC hit, which became a surprise smash when it launched in 2024.
The first series went on to win Best Comedy Series at the International Emmys, and now Mitchell is returning alongside Anna Maxwell Martin, who reprises her role as Lucy Betts-Taylor.
For Mitchell, however, the Cambridge setting is more than just a picturesque backdrop.
The former Cambridge student says he grew up loving detective shows including Inspector Morse and always dreamed of becoming an actor and comedian.
“I’m particularly pleased when we’re actually filming there,” he said, describing some of the Cambridge shoots as among his happiest filming experiences.
“When I was a student, I really wanted to be an actor and a comedian, and I didn’t know how that would work out.
“So I like thinking that my former self would be pleased with me coming back to film a detective series.”
In series two, John is now working as a crime-scene consultant alongside DI Russell Carter, while his identical twin James remains missing.
Despite being banned from using police resources to investigate his brother, John refuses to let the mystery go.
And Lucy isn't giving up either.
Mitchell admits the return was less nerve-racking than the first series because the cast and crew already knew audiences were watching.
He also praised Maxwell Martin, admitting he was initially “intimidated” by the Motherland star’s dramatic credentials.
“She’s very funny and fun on set,” he said.
The new series also welcomes Fleabag star Sian Clifford and Scottish actor Mark Bonnar, who Mitchell says bring very different energies to the show.
Despite the cosy Cambridge setting, Mitchell promises there is a darker side to Ludwig.
“Our show is very picturesque and quite cosy and intriguing, but there is darkness too,” he said.
Series two of Ludwig premieres on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Thursday, August 20.
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