Ludwig poster

Ludwig

TV Series • 2024 TV-14
⭐ 8.2/10 (1,659 on Trakt)
Year2024
Statusreturning series
Seasons2
Runtime55 min/ep
NetworkBBC One
CountryGB
Created by: Mark Brotherhood
John Taylor lives in quiet solitude, designing puzzles for a living, under the nom-de-plume of 'Ludwig'. When his identical twin, James, disappears off the face of the earth, John takes over his brother's identity in a quest to discover his whereabouts.

What viewers say

Viewers enjoy this gentle British detective drama for its puzzle-box plots, the dry humor and nerdy charm of its lead pair, strong production values and a lighthearted tone that critics called thoroughly pleasant. Many say it is a nice change of pace for its star. Opinions are split on the second season: some find it funnier, while others think the puzzles become a distraction and the quirkiness and subplots get in the way. Reviewers note the plot relies on impersonation and lying, some police are shown as incompetent, and there are a few violent moments, including a hanging and a gory chest injury.

Best for: Viewers who like quirky British detective puzzles with wry humor and don't need a cozy, bloodless tone.

Summary of public viewer reviews, updated November 2026.

comedydramamysterycrime

📺 Where to Watch

🎬 Watch Trailer

Trailer hosted on YouTube. Click play to load.

🎭 Cast

David Mitchell as John 'Ludwig' Taylor / James Taylor
Anna Maxwell Martin as Lucy Betts-Taylor
Dipo Ola as DI Russell Carter
Izuka Hoyle as DS Alice Finch
Gerran Howell as DC Simon Evans
Ben Ashenden as DC Ethan Cole
Dorothy Atkinson as DCS Carol Shaw
Dylan Hughes as Henry Betts-Taylor
🛒 Buy/Rent on Amazon