The high-octane ITV thriller Red Eye reaches its dramatic conclusion tonight, Monday, January 12, as the second season finale airs on ITV1. The series, which made a triumphant return on New Year's Day, has once again captivated audiences with its relentless pace and tense, embassy-set storyline.
A Compressed Thriller That Keeps Viewers Hooked
Following a hugely successful first run, which ranked among ITV's top ten dramas of 2024 with over eight million viewers and 29.3 million streams on ITVX, the second season has maintained the show's signature intensity. This season swapped the claustrophobic aeroplane setting for the locked-down confines of the American Embassy, creating a new 'ticking clock' scenario.
Writer Peter A. Dowling highlighted the power of this format, stating that a compressed timeline forces the audience to 'lean in', adding crucial propulsion to the on-screen action. The release strategy of two episodes weekly on Sunday and Monday nights has kept the momentum high throughout its run.
Star-Studded Cast and Surprise Returns
The series boasts a compelling ensemble cast. Jing Lusi reprises her role as DS Hana Li, alongside Lesley Sharp as MI5 head Madeline Delaney and Jemma Moore as journalist Jess Li. A major draw for season two was the guest appearance of Line of Duty star Martin Compston, who plays Clay Brody, the Head of Embassy Security.
In a thrilling twist, episode five saw the surprise return of Richard Armitage as Dr Matthew Nolan from season one. Armitage explained his character's motivation to help Jess Li, noting it felt instinctual given their shared past traumas, and that the surprise element added to the adrenaline of the plot.
The Final Episode: A Climactic Showdown
So, how many episodes are there in Red Eye season two? The answer is six episodes, with the finale broadcasting tonight at 9pm on ITV1. The concluding chapter promises a resolution filled with action and revelation.
According to the official synopsis, the finale will see Brody break free to assist Hana in capturing the villainous Fox and retrieving a bomb detonator. However, a security standoff allows Fox to escape. Hana and Brody must then recover vital stolen evidence and deliver it to Delaney at Thames House.
This evidence unveils the conspiracy's origins and identifies the true mastermind. Delaney devises a risky plan for justice, but when it falters, Brody pays a high personal cost in a desperate bid for a confession, while Hana and Fox engage in a final, deadly confrontation.
Don't miss the explosive ending to one of ITV's most gripping dramas. Tune in for the Red Eye season two finale tonight at 9pm on ITV1.
