Ricky Gervais returns in trailer for second season of Netflix sitcom 'After Life'

Ricky Gervais is in full, sweary mode in the new trailer for the upcoming second season of his morbidly funny sitcom After Life.

The controversial comic has reprised his role as widower Tony, who is struggling with depression after the death of his wife, played by Kerry Godliman.

Read more: Viral “tubby little ginger” star thanks Gervais for S2 return

Returning are the likes of David Bradley and Penelope Wilton, who can be seen in the trailer glugging red wine directly from the bottle.

The show’s cast is packed with the pinnacle of British comedy talent, including stand-up stars Roisin Conaty and Joe Wilkinson.

It seems that the second season will continue to see Gervais’ Tony say exactly what’s on his mind, directing four-letter insults at just about anybody who will listen.

The first season of After Life scored strong reviews, earning a 72% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

The site’s critical consensus reads: “After Life's first season teeters tonally between dark comedy and affecting drama, but Ricky Gervais' poignant performance illuminates new sides of the actor's talent.”

Read more: Everything coming to Netflix in April 2020

Some fans, however, criticised the show for rehashing some of Gervais’ old stand-up and podcast material.

Just weeks after the first season landed on Netflix, Gervais thanked fans for their positive response and started to hint at the direction for a second run.

He said: “I fell in love with the characters and I’ve got an idea of where it can go. The second series is always better. Usually because you know the actors.

“There’s a little clue at the end of series one when he says, I’m just going to use my superpower for good.”

After Life S2 debuts on Netflix from 24 April, with six new episodes.