“Happy Valley” captivated audiences across three thrilling series, culminating in an emotionally charged finale on February 5, 2023. Created by Sally Wainwright and starring Sarah Lancashire as the resilient Sergeant Catherine Cawood, the series consistently garnered critical acclaim and maintained impressive viewership numbers, averaging 9.16 million UK viewers in its final series.
Following its conclusion, “Happy Valley” continued to receive recognition, winning Best Drama at the 28th National Television Awards in September 2023. Sarah Lancashire, whose powerful performance defined the series, also earned two individual awards, further cementing her place as one of British television’s most esteemed actresses.
What’s Next for the Cast and Creator?
Although “Happy Valley” has officially ended, its creator and cast members have embarked on new and exciting projects. Sally Wainwright, known for her ability to craft compelling narratives, is currently developing “Riot Women,” a fresh BBC series set in West Yorkshire. The show follows a group of women forming a punk-rock band and boasts an impressive cast, including Joanna Scanlan, Rosalie Craig, Tamsin Greig, Lorraine Ashbourne, and Amelia Bullmore. Filming began in 2024, and the series is set to premiere on BBC and BritBox internationally in 2025.
Sarah Lancashire is also venturing into new territory with an ambitious contemporary drama, which she is developing in collaboration with Lighthouse Film and Television and her own production company, Via Pictures. Although details remain scarce, the project is described as a “research-heavy” drama inspired by real characters, promising another compelling performance from Lancashire.
Additionally, Siobhan Finneran, known for her role as Clare Cartwright in “Happy Valley,” has taken on a lead role in the ITV crime drama “Protection.” In this series, she portrays DI Liz Nyles, a dedicated but compromised officer working within the Witness Protection unit. The show explores themes of corruption and integrity within the police force and is highly anticipated by fans of crime dramas.
A Lasting Legacy
While “Happy Valley” has come to an end, its impact on British television remains undeniable. With Wainwright, Lancashire, and the rest of the cast continuing to shape the industry through new and dynamic projects, fans have plenty to look forward to. Whether through gripping crime dramas or groundbreaking new series, the legacy of “Happy Valley” lives on in the talent of those who brought it to life.