UKTV confirms central casting for new Bergerac remake
UKTV (U) has finally confirmed who will play the role of Jim Bergerac in the new reimagined version of the beloved 80s TV series!
Irish actor Damien Molony has been cast in the highly sought-after role of Jim Bergerac. Molony is already a familiar face on British TV and is best known for his roles in series such as The Split, Brassic, Ripper Street and Derry Girls.
What is it about?
Bergerac, originally starring John Nettles in the main role, was a ratings hit back when it ran from 1981 to 1991. The series was set in the fictional Bureau des Etrangers in the Channel island of Jersey, a department that deals with non-residents of the island.
Jim Bergerac’s life is in turmoil following the death of his wife. An alcoholic, he finds himself parenting his young daughter alone and battling against grief and alcohol to try to be the formidable investigator he once was.
The new series intends to stay faithful to the original; it will introduce Jim Bergerac to a new generation of fans too young to remember the original series. It will differ in that the six-part series will focus on solving one ongoing case, rather than a different storyline in each episode.
Who is in the cast?
Zoë Wanamaker will play Jim Bergerac’s mother-in-law Charlie, with a supporting cast including Philip Glenister, Pippa Haywood, Celine Arden, Sasha Behar and Robert Gilbert.
Who is behind it?
The series is written by Being Human screenwriter Toby Whithouse alongside Brian Fillis, Catherine Tregenna and Polly Buckle. The series will be directed by Colm McCarthy and produced by Clare Alan.
Whithouse said in a statement to the press:
“It’s a rare honour to bring back a show as beloved and iconic as Bergerac. Our mission was always to respect the show’s history and legacy, while making it impactful and relevant for a modern-day audience.”
When will it air?
Filming will start this month on the island of Jersey and in other UK locations.
Bergerac will be broadcast on UKTV Play and Drama in 2025.
Right now US viewers can watch the original series Bergerac on BritBox, BritBox Amazon Channel, and Britbox Apple TV Channel.
UK viewers can watch it on ITVX.