Happy Valley’s Explosive Return: Dark Secrets Resurface
When Catherine uncovers a gangland murder victim’s remains in a drained reservoir, it unleashes a brutal chain reaction. The discovery drags her straight back into the deadly orbit of Tommy Lee Royce, the villain she’s battled before.
Meanwhile, Catherine’s 16-year-old grandson, Ryan, starts to challenge her authority, wanting a relationship with the father she refuses to acknowledge. This puts Catherine’s sister, Clare, in a painful middle ground. Elsewhere in the valley, a local pharmacist finds himself tangled in trouble when a neighbour faces arrest, ramping up the tension even more.
Showrunner Sally Wainwright on What Makes Happy Valley Tick
Is Happy Valley a typical police drama? “It’s not a police show. It’s about Catherine, who happens to be a cop. It’s not a procedural or a crime show. It’s really about Catherine’s past and her twisted relationship with the man who ruined her life.”
What sparked the idea for Happy Valley? “I was inspired by Jez Lewis’s documentary Shed Your Tears and Walk Away about drug and alcohol problems in Hebden Bridge. Also, as a kid, I loved Juliet Bravo, which was filmed nearby. It was about a female police inspector and stuck with me. I wanted to re-visit that vibe. Plus, I aimed to create my own version of Nurse Jackie — but with a policewoman instead of a nurse.”
How would you describe Catherine’s character? “She’s strong, stubborn, with a sharp streak of irony and comedy. Catherine is a good person scarred by tragedy. That darkness runs through her, but she’s still entertaining and tough — like real-life police officers need to be.”
Why is Catherine so beloved? “Sarah Lancashire’s performance is everything. She captures every tiny subtle thought, making audiences feel deeply connected to her.”
Was Sarah Lancashire always the pick for Catherine? “Absolutely. After working with her on Last Tango In Halifax, I knew she’d nail it. She’s charismatic, detailed, and had the role in my mind from the start.”
Where does the name ‘Happy Valley’ come from? “It’s what local police call the Valley because of the drug issues. The name fits perfectly — dark but with flashes of humour and warmth. Season two dialled up the humour, and season three keeps that balance intact.”
Why the long wait for series three? “I waited six years so Ryan would be old enough to wrestle with his feelings about his father. Now 16, he can make choices behind Catherine’s back, adding real drama. Sarah and I decided on a trilogy — this final series wraps up the story.”
Happy Valley Series 3 Hits BBC One on New Year’s Day
Don’t miss the explosive return of Happy Valley at 9pm on 1 January, BBC One. Grab your popcorn — it’s going to be one hell of a finale.
