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Actor David Tennant says he knew critics would bash the second series of Broadchurch – because Britain “doesn’t let” TV dramas continue with huge success.

The ex-Doctor Who star, who plays DI Alec Hardy, said criticism was inevitable after the “extraordinary” popularity of the first run.

The ITV show, which has been slated for its confusing plotlines, is now losing to BBC rival Silent Witness in a clash of the crime dramas.

But Tennant, 43, insists: “It’s a wonderful series that I’m very proud to be part of. We’re a victim of our success. We never allow lightning to strike twice in this country.”

Tennant, who stars alongside Olivia Colman’s DS Ellie Miller, remains tight-lipped about how he feels about a third series or a spin-off for their characters.

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He said: "I think we’re a victim of our success to be honest.”

The former Dr Who refused to be drawn on the whodunnit drama’s remaining episodes, saying he was a “vault of secrets”, adding: “I don’t tell anyone anything.”

Bathgate-born Tennant’s comments come as he was picking up the gong for best actor for his role in the RSC’s Richard II at the What’s On Stage awards in central London.

After collecting his award, Tennant said: “It’s lovely getting a prize for doing something you would do for free frankly. And I feel very blessed in many ways.”

The star, who last week took part in BBC Radio 4’s Just a Minute, refused to even sum up in one word what he thought viewers would make of the series two finale.

Tennant, who stars alongside Olivia Coleman in the drama, hailed his co-star and remained tight-lipped about how he felt about a third series or a spin-off for their characters.

“There’s nothing finer than working with Olivia. I’d like to do that everyday of my life, but I think the story will lead that.

“I think what’s been wonderful about the second series of Broadchurch is that it’s not been the same type of show as the first series and therefore the story has to determine whether there’s more to tell,” he said.

Long-running BBC hit Silent Witness is beating Broadchurch in a head-to-head clash of the crime dramas.

And reviews for the second season have been lukewarm in comparison to the last one and fans of the first series have taken to Twitter to vent their frustration at “confusing” plot lines.

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