The Couple Next Door's return slammed as 'waste of time and energy' by viewers

The Couple Next Door has made its comeback on Channel 4 for a second series this week, but the thriller hasn't quite hit the mark with fans.

The show, which originally featured Outlander's Sam Heughan and Poldark's Eleanor Tomlinson, now sees Annabel Scholey leading as heart surgeon Charlotte in a plot brimming with love triangles.

Charlotte seems to have it all, including a perfect marriage to Jacob (played by Sam Palladio), but their world is rocked by the entrance of enigmatic nurse Mia (Aggy K Adams) and Charlotte's old flame Leo (Sendhil Ramamurthy).

READ MORE: Coronation Street's Jacob Roberts hints at Kit Green's grim fate after injury

READ MORE: John Torode confirms he's subject of racism allegation in wake of Gregg Wallace report

With promises of sultry drama and shocking turns, The Couple Next Door returned this Monday (14th July) aiming to captivate audiences with its second season.

Despite showrunner David Allison hinting at a "sexier, bigger and bolder" narrative, viewers were left wanting after the premiere episode, reports the Express.

Disgruntled fans expressed their opinions on X (formerly Twitter), criticising the second series' erratic opening.

A disgruntled viewer posted on X: "Just watched the first two episodes of series 2, it's a dreadful unbelievable storyline is ridiculous.

"After a first really good series this was a disappointment."

Another viewer hinted at the show being an unexpected favourite, commenting: "This is so bad, it's brilliant #TheCoupleNextdoor."

Yet another viewer complained: "Five percent authentic story and ninety five percent gratuitous sex. A waste of time and energy."

A fourth viewer commented on the show's unique aesthetic: "This is such a weird show. The locations don't look very British. It's all a bit artificial-looking."

Another viewer offered a dreamlike interpretation of the drama: "This is like someone who's in a coma, in the hospital, is dreaming it all..."

Despite some initial scepticism, The Couple Next Door has managed to retain a fanbase that's willing to embrace its eccentricities.

An enthusiastic fan couldn't contain their excitement for the new season, proclaiming: "Holy f*** 'The Couple Next Door' season 2 is seriously good!", and awarded it four stars.

Meanwhile, another viewer gave the show a second chance, confessing: "Giving #TheCoupleNextDoor another chance as I got bored halfway through."

As viewers debate whether the second season lives up to expectations or falls into the realm of the overly bizarre, the series continues to stir conversation.

The Couple Next Door season 2 is available on Channel 4.