Popular drama series Granite Harbour returns to Aberdeen for a new three-part, second series as Lindo (Romario Simpson), Bart (Hannah Donaldson) and the police team investigate two fatal cases with dark consequences at their heart, immersing the Major Investigations Team in the granite city’s criminal underworld.
When drug kingpin Grace McFadden’s (Lesley Hart) notorious fixer turns up dead, the MIT have their work cut out to find the source of a new cocaine and ketamine compound flooding the streets. Fearing an impending drugs turf war is brewing, the team fight to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, Lindo investigates the case of pregnant stowaway, Mariam (Afsaneh Dehrouyeh), who claims her partner was killed on their journey across the sea. At the dockside, Lindo and Bart’s suspicions are raised by the guarded behaviour of Captain Anders Nielsen (Søren Malling) and his protege Axel Berg (Christopher Rygh) from the Stolthet, a Norwegian cargo ship which recently arrived in Aberdeen.
After complications and conflicts arise, DCI MacMillan pulls Lindo and Bart off the stowaway murder case. However, Lindo has other ideas, refusing to give up on his hunch the Stolthet’s crew are guilty of something sinister.
With the drug investigation making slow progress, Monty and Mallick are further frustrated by the McFadden family’s unwillingness to cooperate.
As the investigation pulls the team in different directions, Lindo faces an added problem when his estranged father, Grantley, arrives for a visit from Jamaica. However, it’s clear he’s got an agenda of his own.
Made by LA Productions, Granite Harbour is the latest drama made in Scotland alongside the likes of Lockerbie, Nightsleeper and Shetland.
Granite Harbour debuts on the BBC Scotland channel, followed by BBC One and iPlayer. All three episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer from Thursday 2 May.
JM2
Watch the trailer
Meet the cast of Granite Harbour
Romario Simpson (DC Davis Lindo)
How does it feel to be back for a second series of Granite Harbour?
It feels great to be back and reunited with fellow cast members. We know each other a bit more now, we understand our characters more and we have more chemistry on screen. We all get on off screen and socialise loads and have a bond together which is wonderful.
Why do you think Granite Harbour proved to be a fan favourite?
I think it’s because it's family friendly and caters to a wide audience group. Not everyone wants to see bloodshed and extreme violence all the time.
What is the storyline this time around?
The story follows a young refugee woman who ends up intertwined into a huge drug operation after her husband disappears from the ship they snuck on to. The team investigate this new drug sweeping the city while trying to figure out what happened onboard the Stolthet ship.
Can you describe your character?
DC Davis Lindo is a year into his trainee detective programme. He is trying to transfer his skills as an RMP soldier into a detective role, but isn't the most obedient when it comes to police procedures. He joins the team as a mentee to DS Lara Bartlett [Hanah Donaldson] who takes Davis under her wing and teaches him the trade.
What do you think are his strengths and weaknesses?
His strengths – he’s analytical, practical and has the ability to work under pressure. And his weaknesses – his lack of obedience, he’s impulsive and has empathy.
What challenges does he face this series?
The relationship with his father Grantley [played by Patrick Robinson]. This causes Lindo friction while he’s at work, there’s so many unanswered questions that Lindo has and he did not expect his dad to come to Aberdeen. Grantley has just turned up, out-of-the-blue, without warning and has intruded into his personal and professional life. Lindo’s struggling to reconcile while being on a murder case.
It was amazing working with Patrick – he’s bubbly and has a big personality. Funnily enough, he looks a bit like my dad so I can absolutely visualise him as my dad!
What is it like filming in Aberdeen?
It’s a really unique place - filming in Aberdeen is refreshing with its stunning and dramatic landscapes. We were down at the harbourside which not everyone gets to see, filming right next to the North Sea which was surreal – the waves were crashing so we got some lovely shots of that.
It was nice to return to Aberdeen and know that people want to see more of Granite Harbour and see it develop. The Aberdonians seemed excited to see the drama filming back. We were at lunch in a local pub one day and, as soon as we stepped in, they were like “Ahhh! Are you guys filming Granite Harbour again?” – it was nice to receive a warm welcome from the people of Aberdeen.
How important is the city to the series storytelling?
The city is referenced throughout the series with stunning shots as well as the harbour ports being central to the influx of something new and dangerous plaguing Aberdeen. We have honoured the city more in this season, I’m sure the audience will be able to recognise and appreciate more of Aberdeen this time around. There are lots of landscapes, more local spots for the audience to enjoy.
Describe in five words what viewers can expect from Series 2 of Granite Harbour…
Stunning, Characters, Danger, Stylish, Risky.
Time for some police interrogation now…
- Tell us a secret about one of the core cast? Hmmm, it wouldn't be a secret if I told you?!
- Which one of you is the DCI of the group and the most bossy? Dawn. She’s quite outspoken and not afraid to express how she feels – which is great. She’s so experienced in the field of acting, I learn from Dawn.
- And who is the most by-the-book of the group and why? The lovely Michelle is the most by the book due to newly being an actor.
Hannah Donaldson (DS Lara ‘Bart’ Bartlett)
How does it feel to be back for a second series of Granite Harbour?
It’s feels great! There was so much still to discover about these characters. I’m delighted we were given the opportunity to play again. Second time around we have the chance to delve deeper. As a company we have a short hand in our working relationships too so we hit the ground running. We know what the show is now, the genre, the tone, the audience etc. Hopefully with each series we can build on the last and get bigger and better with each year.
Why do you think Granite Harbour proved to be a fan favourite?
I think Granite Harbour is a fan favourite because while it fits into the crime drama genre it also satisfies a want for those kind of shows minus the (sometimes) gratuitous violence or shock factor. Making it a gentler watch but never short changing an audience on the drama.
What is the storyline this time around?
The storyline centres on a young pregnant Iranian refugee who stows away on a ship bound for Aberdeen. She accidentally finds herself caught up in a drugs operation involving Aberdeen’s notorious crime family, the McFaddens. Trust plays a huge role this series.
Can you describe your character?
My character Bart is chasing promotion. She feels overshadowed by her peer Jay Mallick [played by Bhav Joshi] who has superseded her on several occasions. This only serves to further fuel their rivalry….albeit in good humour. It does leave a chip on Bart’s shoulder. She is torn between her loyalty to her partner Lindo [Romario Simpson], who often takes an unorthodox approach to his policing, and her own desire to play by the rules and step up the ladder.
What do you think are her/his strengths and weaknesses?
Bart’s strengths are her loyalty and her determination. But that determination fuels her need for promotion and I think this could be considered a weakness as it drives a wedge between her and Lindo.
What challenges does she face this series?
The biggest challenge, once again, is keeping Lindo, on the straight and narrow! I think she has learnt to trust his instincts, but it’s a scary line to walk as it puts them both in jeopardy.
What is it like filming in Aberdeen?
Filming in Aberdeen is wonderful. The city and surrounding area bring so much character to the screen. It really fuels the work we do and supports the storyline. It’s Scotland so of course, we have to contend with the weather. But the harshness of the North Sea, the wind, the crashing waves all add another level of drama to the show. I would actually say, the worse the weather, the better the shot. Some of the drone sequences from this series are stunning.
I really hope Aberdonians are proud to see their city on screen. I think we should be seeing a greater diversity of landscapes in our TV dramas. The central belt has long been represented but it’s time to showcase the beauty of the rest of Scotland. I grew up in the north east so I feel particularly keen for us to do it justice.
Did you visit any unusual locations this year?
We did film under the deck of a decommissioned boat in Garelochhead. That was quite an experience. Not great if you suffer from claustrophobia.
How important is the city to the series storytelling?
The city is fundamental to the storytelling. Aberdeen is the story. We couldn’t tell this particular story and have it set anywhere else it is so rooted in the infrastructure of the city, its culture and its people. And the same is true of my character, Bart. We’re all shaped by where we’ve come from. When you grow up in a coastal town you’re always looking out towards the sea. The horizon feels as though you can never quite reach it. I think Bart feels that way. She’s rooted to the shore, for better or worse, but ever striving out towards the horizon.
Describe in five words what viewers can expect from Series 2 of Granite Harbour…
Scots, Scandi Cast, Bigger, Bolder
Time for some police interrogation now…
- Tell us a secret about one of the core cast? Romario wears thermals in Scotland in the summer.
- Which one of you is the DCI of the group and the most bossy? I think Dawn is DCI on and off screen. She’s the planner of social events too.
- And who is the most by-the-book of the group and why? Most by the book is probably Michelle... she was a real police officer for 23 years after all.
Dawn Steele (DCI Cora Macmillan)
How does it feel to be back for a second series of Granite Harbour?
It feels amazing to be back! We didn’t know how the first series was going to go what with it being a brand new drama, you know you never know how these things are going to turn out. And we were thrilled that we got another chance to explore these characters and these stories because I think there’s a lot more to do with all the other characters. As a cast we all get on really well so it was lovely to be back in Aberdeen and in Glasgow.
Why do you think Granite Harbour proved to be a fan favourite?
The thing is with Granite Harbour is it’s a good detective, drama series with a really good story set in gorgeous Aberdeen – the lovely granite city. But also, you know, there’s no swearing, there’s no blood, there’s a little bit of violence but it’s quite a family friendly drama, actually. There isn’t many cop shows like that – it’s got a very different energy and I know a lot of people liked the first series because it was a bit different and also it’s set in lovely Aberdeen which the viewers loved.
What is the storyline this time around?
Well, obviously, I can’t give too much away but there’s a lot to do within our dynamic of detectives together. I really enjoyed that this year – we get to explore a bit more about their families, their backgrounds, their stories. Also, there’s a fantastic story about immigrants coming over to this country to escape war and that is kind of combined with a bit of a drugs story within Aberdeen. The two stories weave together really nicely…I don’t want to give too much away! It’s really nice this year because we get to have a lot of overseas actors with us which was just fantastic – artists from Stockholm, Copenhagen, Norway and it was great to really explore that side of it.
Can you describe your character?
My character? Well, she’s the boss – Cora’s the yes/no woman. She has to decide what happens and who goes where and she’s got to keep her team together which, actually, this year, is quite hard because of where the story goes – there are lots of different threads. The team splits – two of the detectives think one thing, the other two think another thing. Really, Cora is in the middle and she’s got to make the decisions – and she really does! I think she’s quite funny, you know, she’s got a dry sense of humour. She is fair, I think and this [policing] is her life. She’s been doing it her whole life. We don’t know much about Cora, yet. We don’t know her background, her family but in this storyline we get to meet one of her old school chums Grace McFadden – it was a joy to film with the lovely Lesley Hart who pays Grace on screen.
What is it like filming in Aberdeen?
It’s gorgeous filming in Aberdeen and, this time, I got to go on location there which was lovely. This series I got to spend nearly a whole week in Aberdeen. It’s gorgeous, it’s a beautiful place and it’s really changed since I was first up there.
This time, we were down at the harbour in Aberdeen – I’ve never been down there never mind filmed there so that was really interesting.
How important is the city to the series storytelling?
If we could we would spend all our time filming in Aberdeen – we would. It’s hugely important to show the city itself, the architecture as well as down at the harbour. It’s amazing it’s got all that as a city.
Describe in five words what viewers can expect from Series 2 of Granite Harbour…
This is very hard. Suspense, drama, boats, accents and Scottish Cuisine – I know that that’s six but you ken what I mean!
Time for some police interrogation now…
- Tell us a secret about one of the core cast? I’m a detective, I shouldn’t really be telling secrets at all but…I will say that Michelle [Jeram] did not know how to play Uno. I had to teach her. That’s all you’re getting.
- Which one of you is the DCI of the group and the most bossy? Definitely me, I’m not going to lie! I’m not so much bossy, I’m an organiser.
- And who is the most by-the-book of the group and why? Definitely Michelle because she used to be a copper! It’s great to have on set because she corrects any little mistakes we make and she gives you little tips.
Bhav Joshi (DI Jay Mallick)
How does it feel to be back for a second series of Granite Harbour?
It feels great to be back on series two of Granite Harbour. Working with this team again and having so many familiar faces back from series one was lovely. We had such a fun time doing the first series, so coming back was a real treat for all of us. And having some truly amazing actors signing on this year was special. A great supporting cast. We were incredibly fortunate to have them.
Why do you think Granite Harbour proved to be a fan favourite?
I think people really latched on to the plot. A Royal Military Police officer from Jamaica coming to Aberdeen to start a new life and retrain as a detective. It’s a fresh take on the classic police drama with this being the central character. It forced us to put ourselves in his shoes and how difficult it can be coming to a new place. And I think series one did a great job of introducing this tight knit group of detectives, seeing how Lindo integrates himself into that and finds his place in his new home.
Can you describe your character?
DI Jay Mallick is a pretty competitive guy. He cares deeply about cracking the case as efficiently and as quickly as possible. Taking all the plaudits in the process. A very diligent detective who is overtly arrogant, cheeky and loves being right. He especially likes rubbing Bart’s [Hannah Donaldson] face in it that he is the Detective Inspector and she is the Detective Sergeant.
What do you think are her/his strengths and weaknesses?
Mallick has many strengths when it comes to his police work. He has good instincts and act’s quickly. He understands how to put the squeeze on suspects he knows to be involved in the crimes he is investigating. He also has a very easy and relaxed way about him with people. He does have his weaknesses though (I hate to admit it) like: he is deliberately blunt with other members of his team, incredibly head strong and likes to assert his higher rank on everyone - except DCI MacMillan [Dawn Steele] of course. He's not a team player that’s for sure!
What challenges does she face this series?
Jay finds it hard to juggle his personal life with his professional one. We get to find out a bit more about him in that way this time around. And we see what the consequences are for him when his private and professional life intertwine.
What is it like filming in Aberdeen?
It’s so amazing getting to film in Aberdeen. It feels very special that this drama is based there and it gives more representation to other parts of Scotland rather than just Glasgow and Edinburgh. People are very proud in Aberdeen, so it comes with a bit of responsibility! But hopefully those people who live there enjoy what we’ve made. I’m from Edinburgh myself and whenever I see it on TV, I always get super excited and giddy. So I can imagine what it’s like for people in Aberdeen seeing places that mean a lot to them on screen.
I think people in Aberdeen love seeing something being filmed in the city. There’s a buzz when a film crew are there.
Did you visit any unusual locations this year?
We actually shot some scenes on the actual harbour itself this season which was great! Those ships are humongous - especially up close! I also did a bit of driving this year which was very fun.
Aberdeen wholeheartedly sets the tone for the series. Those incredible aerial shots of the granite city at night are stunning. Very moody - which is great for a police drama.
Describe in five words what viewers can expect from Series 2 of Granite Harbour…
Action, Pace, Heartfelt, Unpredictable and ENERGY!
Time for some police interrogation now…
- Tell us a secret about one of the core cast? The most well-kept secret about one of the cast is that… Dawn Steele isn’t really a DCI!
- Which one of you is the DCI of the group and the most bossy? Since Dawn plays the DCI I’m gonna go with the boss! She was also the group activities organiser.
- And who is the most by-the-book of the group and why? We are very lucky to have Michelle in the cast who is an ex-police officer - so I’m gonna go with her.
Michelle Jeram (DS Simone ‘Monty’ Montrose)
How does it feel to be back for a second series of Granite Harbour?
Amazing, it’s great to be back with the team and lots of the crew from series one. I love this show, it has really found its feet in this series and we have all bedded into our characters. Also I love Scotland so it’s a huge bonus to relocate for a couple of months.
Why do you think Granite Harbour proved to be a fan favourite?
There’s nothing out there like it, set in Aberdeen and a diverse cast, it really showcases a lot of Scottish talent. The viewers will see so much more of the beauty of Scotland in the new series.
What is the storyline this time around?
There’s quite a bit going on, it’s difficult to say without giving too much away but there’s moral and professional dilemmas for some of the team. There’s humanity and of course an investigation that has a shocking twist.
Can you describe your character?
Monty loves tech, she really likes to delve deep into investigations. She’s quite reserved, doesn’t get involved in office politics and tries to see the best in everyone. She also loves a waistcoat and tie!
What do you think are her strengths and weaknesses?
Monty is measured in her approach, she wants to help everyone and doesn’t get particularly fazed by much. Her weakness is generally her work is her life, maybe she needs to let herself go a bit and have a better work/life balance.
What challenges does she face this series?
She is met with a dilemma and tries to give someone the opportunity to deal with it.
What is it like filming in Aberdeen?
Lovely, the locals are nice and I think generally happy we are filming in their city. I saw a bit on social media and they [Aberdonians] seemed to be really excited about Granite Harbour which is great.
It’s very important this series as we have a storyline involving a ship and the port area. I think the viewers wanted to see more of Aberdeen from series one and they get that this series.
Did you visit any unusual locations this year?
Not unusual, considering we were at the port but we filmed in a massive warehouse, it was vast. Having the ships in the background was really quite something.
Describe in five words what viewers can expect from Series 2 of Granite Harbour…
Teamwork, Humanity, Action, Moral dilemma!
Time for some police interrogation now…
Tell us a secret about one of the core cast? I’m a typical Taurean, you tell me a secret, I’ll take it to the grave!
Which one of you is the DCI of the group and the most bossy? Dawn, she’s not bossy though, she likes to organise the social side of things.
And who is the most by-the-book of the group and why? Probably me, I’m quite reserved and definitely not a rebel. I’m Monty without the tech ability and waistcoats!
Cast
DC Davis Lindo – Romario Simpson
DS Lara ‘Bart’ Bartlett – Hannah Donaldson
DI Jay Mallick – Bhav Joshi
DCI Cora MacMillan – Dawn Steele
DS Simone ‘Monty’ Montrose – Michelle Jeram
Grace McFadden – Lesley Hart
Duncan McFadden – Sam Garioch
Mariam Faraki – Afsaneh Dehrouyeh
Captain Nielsen – Søren Malling
Axel Berg – Christopher Rygh
Emil – Alex Høgh Anderson
Elsa Henrik – Melina Akerman Kvie
Nazir – Sani Mamood
Ruth – Layla Kirk
Grantley – Patrick Robinson
Katie Forsyth – Kate Bracken
Pierce – Macleod Stephen
Creatives
BBC Executive Producers – Gavin Smith & Gaynor Holmes
LA Productions Executive Producer – Colin McKeown
Producer – Donna Molloy
Writers – Robert Fraser (Ep1), Jillian Mannion (Ep2) & Ciara Conway (Ep3)
Directors – Martin Smith and Alex Browning