Channel 4 and AMC confirmed today that the critically acclaimed series Humans has been recommissioned for a second series.

The first episode consolidated at 6.1m making it Channel 4’s highest rated originated drama in 20 years. Series 1 of Humans has attracted an average of 4.8million viewers* per episode and an 18.0% share of the viewing audience on Sundays from 9-10pm. Every Sunday the series attracts the highest share of 16-34 year old viewers to its time slot with an impressive average share of 26% of Channel 4’s key demographic – triple the slot average. On AMC the series stands as a top five cable drama launch among adults 25-54 in the U.S. So far, season one has averaged 2.0 million viewers and 1.0 million adults 25-54 through its first four episodes in live+3 ratings.

Set in a parallel present, the series explores what happens when the lines between humans and machines are blurred. The series will return for eight brand new episodes, with production starting next year.

The first series tapped into society’s preoccupation with and mistrust of advancing technology and artificial intelligence. What does it mean to be human? Can the very traits through which we define humanity (love, trust, loyalty, friendship, sacrifice) be taught? What really is family? Exploring humans’ inherent fear of the unknown and the possible implications of granting machines consciousness, the final episode will leave viewers on a thrilling cliff-hanger – will the synth family come together and find a way to create sentience in others like them?

Piers Wenger, Head of Drama at Channel 4 said; “Humans has proved a huge hit with both audiences and critics alike this summer and we owe a huge debt of gratitude to writers Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley and to the team at Kudos for bringing a truly unmissable show to life. It also marks a key moment for Channel 4 as we expand our remit for bold and original drama into the international, co-production space. We look forward to working with our partners AMC on series 2 of Humans and to more Synth-related adventures to come”.

Derek Wax, Executive Producer, Kudos added; “As producers, we’re so thrilled to have been able to work with Sam and Jon on such provocative and challenging ideas and stories. We’re delighted that viewers have connected with the series so wholeheartedly and look forward to continuing the wonderfully collaborative relationship with Channel 4 and AMC. And of course, going back to Synth School to learn some new moves for series two”

Joel Stillerman, President of Original Programming and Development for AMC and Sundance TV, said; “We’re so pleased to announce a second season of Humans and extend our terrific partnership with Channel 4, Kudos and the stellar cast, crew and writers Sam and Jonathan. As one of the year’s top new cable series, ‘Humans’ has been embraced by fans and critics across the U.S. and UK. We’re looking forward to continuing this very captivating story and further exploring the show’s parallel, Synth-filled world that hits so disturbingly close to home.”

Humans is written by Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley (Spooks, Spooks: The Greater Good), the series is produced by Kudos (Broadchurch, Utopia) in association with Matador Films. Executive producers are Derek Wax (The Hour, Occupation, Lip Service) and Chris Fry (The Smoke, Spooks) for Kudos, Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley and Henrik Widman and Lars Lundström for Matador Films. Commissioned for Channel 4 by Simon Maxwell and Beth Willis, and Joel Stillerman and Kristin Jones for AMC.