Huge BBC series to return for new series despite killing off main star
A MAJOR new BBC drama has been confirmed to be returning for a brand new series.
After bringing in a huge six million viewers, This City is Ours has been re-commissioned for a second series.
The eight-episode series has become the Beeb’s most-watched new drama of the year after being given the coveted Sunday night drama slot.
Led by Sean Bean and Julie Graham, the programme follows the Phelan family and the highs and lows of their life amid their drug trafficking backdrop.
Sean played gangster Ronnie in the show but was killed off.
Despite this, show bosses are hopeful that the actor will be able to appear in the brand new series as part of a flashback episode.
Whilst details on series two are still up in the air, a BBC insider told the Mirror: “The shape of season two is up in the air but one thought is that Sean Bean will return as Ronnie in an episode about his backstory.”
Speaking about the support the series has received and what is to come from future episodes, the show’s creator and lead writer, Stephen Butchard, said: “We have all been blown away by the incredibly positive response to This City is Ours.
“I can’t thank the audience enough for their time and emotional investment.
“My heartfelt thanks also to Lindsay Salt and her wonderful team at BBC Drama for their unflinching support and continued belief in the show, our story and our characters – and not least for this opportunity to do it all over again! See you soon!”
The show also follows the love affair of Michael (James Nelson-Joyce) and Diana (Hannah Onslow) – set against the disintegration of Michael’s crime gang.
Discussing her role as Diana, Hannah said: “Her and Michael’s relationship is very strong, they really do love each other so much.
“They are both at a big turning point in their life and want to start a family together.
“I don’t think Diana knew she could ever feel this way about someone, and I think the same goes for Michael.
“Their relationship is really special, beautifully written and it has been a complete joy to do it with James.”
Further cast members include Derry Girls‘ Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Gavin and Stacey‘s Laura Aikman and Waterloo Road‘s Jack McMullen.
This City is Ours airs on BBC One and all episodes are available on BBC iPlayer.