Jersey’s most famous detective will be coming back to the island for a second season of the new Bergerac after the reboot pulled in nearly 2m viewers, it can be revealed today. Here’s what we know so far…
Commissioned by BBC-owned broadcaster UKTV, the first season of the long-anticipated rework – which stars Irish actor Damien Molony in the lead role of Jim Bergerac – launched in February on U and U&DRAMA after filming took place in Jersey and Devon last year.
It offered a “contemporary twist” on the popular detective drama created by Robert Banks Stewart, which starred John Nettles and ran on the BBC between 1981 and 1991.
Here are five things you need to know:
1. Jersey nailed its moment in the spotlight
Sharing his reflections on the reboot and excitement for series two on the latest Bailiwick Podcasts episode, Executive Producer Brian Constantine was full of praise for the islanders who wanted to get involved in production. The extras call happened to be on the hottest day of the year – but scores of islanders still turned out for it.
“We are very happy, very thrilled that Bergerac’s story will continue”
Executive Producer Brian Constantine
Perhaps the biggest local star, however, was an iconic Jersey location.
In the original, Bergerac could travel anywhere via the “magic tunnel”. This time, Director Colin McCarthy had a different signature shot in mind.
“We pretty much went via the Five Mile Road on any trip anywhere in Jersey, just to get those epic shots of that wonderful stretch of road… As far as we’re concerned, it’s a beautiful location, and we had to use it,” Mr Constantine said.
2. “Fantastic” viewing figures
UKTV today revealed that the new six-part series has become the second highest rating programme on U&DRAMA, with 1.8 million consolidated viewers tuning in.
The launch also contributed to a record-breaking performance on U, helping to achieve “the best week ever” for the streaming platform.
“The viewing figures have been fantastic, and we’re very, very lucky to have been blessed with with such a talented crew and team that produced what I think is a world class drama,” Mr Constantine said.
3. Filming to start soon…
Mr Constantine said the team were “very thrilled that Bergerac’s story will continue”, adding: “Hopefully this is going to be as good, if not better, than season one.”
He said that the support of Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel and Visit Jersey had been vital, and that the team looked forward to doing more filming in Jersey.
Visit Jersey CEO Tricia Warwick said the organisation – which received a £713,897.47 government grant towards the production of the series – was “delighted” the series would be returning. She said it had “significantly raised Jersey’s profile as a must-visit destination”.
“We are excited to see even more of our island’s stunning landscapes and unique locations featured in series two,” she added.
4. Guess who’s back?
In addition to Mr Molony’s return in the titular role, UKTV has confirmed that Zoë Wanamaker will be back as Charlie Hungerford and Robert Gilbert as Barney Crozier, with further cast to be revealed in the coming months.
5. When’s it out?
The second season is anticipated to air sometime in 2026.
“We are fully committed to Jersey and making the island look as best it can be. Yes, there were lessons learned on season one – of course there was going to be – but given that, I think there were many positives that we can build on,” Mr Constantine said.
“We look forward to doing that and again showcasing the island to the best of our abilities.”
LISTEN…
You can listen to Mr Constantine discuss the reaction to season one and the confirmation of season two in a special podcast episode with Express below or wherever you get your podcasts…