Grantchester star Rishi Nair lands major role in another popular ITV crime drama

The popular detective crime series Grace has commenced filming its sixth series in Brighton, featuring an impressive array of stars cast in key roles. John Simm, who portrays the titular DS Roy Grace, will once again bring his beloved character to life, supported by a team of astute detectives assisting the East Sussex Police in solving a range of crimes.

Other returning cast members include Richie Campbell as DI Glenn Branson, Laura Elphinstone as DS Bella Moy, Zoe Tapper as Cleo Morey and Brad Morrison as DC Nick Nicholl. This season, John and his team will be joined by a slew of fresh faces, including Grantchester's fan-favourite Rishi Nair, known for his role as Alphy Kotteram in the ITV detective drama.

Notable additions to the cast include Sara Powell, known for her roles in Midsomer Murders and The Killing kind, along with Ali Khan, Gurjeet Singh, Hannah McClean and Tamla Kari.

As viewers have come to expect, the new season will be based on a novel by renowned crime author Peter James.

While much remains unknown about the upcoming series, a sneak peek into the new season shows John, Richie and Laura donned in white forensic suits, flashing broad smiles as they mark the start of filming with a classic clapper-board.

Last week, John exclaimed: "This is the longest I've been involved in any show! But it's such a joy to do, and to be surrounded by a team like this for large chunks of the year makes it impossible to turn down. I'm really looking forward to seeing where Roy's journey goes in this series."

Phil Hunter, Executive Producer of Grace, added: "Grace is such a joy to make so we are thrilled at how well received series five was. It's great to be back in Brighton with our brilliant and talented cast and crew to shoot another four episodes this summer."

Rishi is enjoying a wave of popularity, having already charmed ITV audiences with his role as Alphy Kotteram in Grantchester's ninth season.

The Grantchester producers have further announced that a tenth season has received the all clear from above, with Rishi due to return alongside Robson Green's DI Geordie Keating.

Rishi shared his excitement with Digital Spy: "I couldn't be happier to recommission Grantchester for a 10th season."

Masterpiece executive producer Susanne Simpson declared: "This is hands-down one of our most popular series, and I know the fans will be thrilled to see it continue with the outstanding Robson Green and Rishi Nair back for more crime-solving."

Grace season 6 does not currently have a release window. Previous seasons can be streamed on ITVX in the UK, and BritBox in the US, Canada and Australia.