The Capture season 3 episode 2 first look as writer breaks down thrilling twist – and teases what next for Rachel Carey

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*Warning – contains major spoilers for The Capture season 3 episode 1.*

The third season of The Capture has begun, with the first episode now streaming on BBC iPlayer. It ends with a major cliffhanger, promising a gripping and unpredictable season ahead.

The first episode shocked viewers with the death of Isaac Turner, played by Paapa Essiedu, which seemed like a targeted killing. Even more surprisingly, the episode ended with Rachel Carey, portrayed by Holliday Grainger, coming face-to-face with the person who did the shooting.

She was the only witness who got a clear look at the shooter, which felt strange, especially since he paused and stared directly at her for a long time.

Killian Scott was originally credited with playing the gunman, but when the camera footage was reviewed, it revealed that Joe Dempsie was actually the one who played the role.

Carey firmly believed the ‘Correction’ operation was happening, even though her coworkers weren’t so sure. The situation became more complicated at the end of the episode when she met her new Commander, who was officially taking over the role she’d been temporarily filling.

Killian Scott plays the role of the new Commander, Noah Pierson.

You can see an exclusive image of Grainger and Scott in character at the top of this article.

The surprising turn of events, where Carey appears to be working against her new boss, wasn’t actually planned from the beginning. According to series creator Ben Chanan, the idea developed later in the writing process, as the team explored different possibilities.

Chanan explained that the team developed a very different storyline by gathering a writers’ room. This new story would have brought back Shaun Emery, the killer from season one (played by Callum Turner), and only Carey would have been able to recognize him.

Honestly, while I’d jump at the chance to work with Callum Turner again, I realized I was kind of painting myself into a corner with that storyline. It just wasn’t going anywhere good, and I had to admit that.

It suddenly hit me: if she’s the only witness to the killer, and that killer is someone she can’t arrest because he’s her new boss, that was a much stronger storyline. We could build a whole six hours of drama around that.

I just love watching him – he’s hilarious and has so much confidence, he really seems like the leader everyone admires. But then you remember what happened with Holliday… it was pretty shocking, wasn’t it? It really makes you wonder if you can believe what you’re seeing, you know?

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Chanan discussed the storyline he had planned for Carey in the upcoming third season, hinting at potential developments and where her character might head.

He described Grainger’s character as consistently rebellious. She’s always challenged authority and held those in power accountable, never afraid to speak up against her superiors.

She’s driven and wants to succeed, but navigating the police force would have been simpler if she’d just gone along with things. However, she’s not one to blindly agree; she’s outspoken and challenges authority. It feels like people are waiting to see how her strong personality will affect her career and whether her ambition will pay off, or create difficulties for her.

The Capture season 3 will continue on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Sunday 15 March 2026.

Don’t miss out on The Capture! Add it to your watchlist on the TopMob: What to Watch app. Download the app today for daily TV recommendations and exclusive content.

Authors

James HibbsDrama Writer

James Hibbs writes about TV dramas for TopMob, covering shows on streaming services and traditional channels. Before becoming a writer, he worked in public relations, first at a business-to-business agency and then at the international production company Fremantle. He has a BA degree in English and Theatre Studies, as well as a Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

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2026-03-09 11:35