ITV viewers are celebrating because it is being reported that an underrated thriller series, Red Eye, could be getting a third season. Red Eye has reportedly gotten the green light for season 3 despite rumors it had been canceled. From fearing it might not return, it now looks like bringing Red Eye back is a bit of a no-brainer for ITV, according to an insider.
Red Eye struggled to catch viewers' attention when it was released, in part because it was scheduled against The Night Manager season 2. 7 million viewers for its opening. An unnamed TV insider told The Sun that the drama launched on New Year's Day and went up against one of the most hyped shows of 2026 so far, so it always faced a challenge.
Despite initial viewing figures disappointing ITV bosses, Red Eye was 'hugely boosted' by people watching on ITVX. 9 million for the most viewed episodes. Red Eye stars Jing Lusi from Gangs of London and Martin Compston from Line of Duty.
The drama launched on New Year's Day and went up against one of the most hyped shows of 2026 so far, so it always faced a challenge.
Season one of Red Eye followed doctor Matthew Nolan, played by Richard Armitage, who is due to be extradited back to China after being accused of murder in Beijing. In season one, Matthew Nolan is forced onto a red-eye flight to face justice in China by DC Hana Li, portrayed by Jing Lusi, and all hell breaks loose during their 10-hour flight. The second series introduced Martin Compston as Regional Security Officer Clay Brody, the man in charge of the US Embassy's security, who teams up with Hana to foil an emerging conspiracy.
Critics were divided on Red Eye; the first season has 57% on Rotten Tomatoes, while season two has 33%. Red Eye has built up a loyal fanbase. Line of Duty fans were thrilled when the BBC confirmed that AC-12 were returning for a seventh season last year.
ITV has yet to officially recommission the third season or confirm casting.