Viewers of ITV’s hit drama The Bay have expressed their frustration following DI Anthony Manning’s car crash that left him in critical condition.
Monday night’s episode (March 10) saw DI Josephine Hardy step in as Manning’s temporary replacement.
Hardy’s introduction has not been well-received though, with fans taking to social media to voice their disapproval of her “frosty approach”.
The character’s cold demeanour has left many viewers uncomfortable, with numerous calls for Manning’s swift return to the Morecambe Bay police team.
ITV The Bay fans pleaded for a change during the latest episode
ITV
Despite the negative reaction to Hardy, the drama continues to receive praise for its overall quality.
Fans didn’t hold back their criticism of the new character on social media platform X.
One viewer pleaded: “Now come on DI Manning. We’re not liking the new boss. We need you back.”
“Don’t like her! Be gone now, thanks,” wrote another disgruntled fan.
A third viewer stated firmly: “We want DI Tony Manning back. The main big boss.”
The negative atmosphere created by Hardy’s arrival was highlighted by another comment: “DCI Josephine Hardy’s attitude has made the atmosphere at MIU go down like a lead balloon.”
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The Bay fans pleaded for a change during the latest episode
ITV
The backlash comes as viewers hope for Manning’s recovery following his dramatic car accident.
As the drama unfolded, viewers also witnessed an emotional moment for another key character in the series.
DS Jenn Townsend was shown breaking down as she struggled with pressures from her family.
Her distress was compounded by concerns for her boss who remains in hospital following the crash.
The emotional scene resonated with audiences who have become invested in the characters’ personal lives alongside the murder investigation.
Despite these challenges, the Morecambe Bay police team continues to focus on solving the central murder case that drives this season’s plot.
Despite the criticism of Hardy’s character, many viewers have praised the overall quality of The Bay.
Some fans have already binged the entire season, eager to see how the story unfolds.
One enthusiastic viewer commented: “Name me a better team than The Bay team, it’s the perfect drama! Absolutely binged it!”
DI Josephine Hardy stepped in as Manning’s temporary replacement
ITV
Another added: “I’ve watched them all and I must say it’s my favourite yet!! Love #thebay and you and all in it are fantastic actors.”
The anticipation for the finale is building, with one fan sharing: “Gosh high drama tonight again! Really excited for tomorrow’s finale! Hoping Jenn’s family all make up and Tony’s recovery continues.”
One impressed viewer summarised: “This series of #TheBay has every quality to be a programme that you can’t wait to watch- tense, suspenseful, funny, sad, it has it ALL!”
They continued: “The characters are all so unique, the acting realistic and emotionally powerful. Family, work, life. Much more than a police drama.” (sic)