The BBC has confirmed the future of its gritty crime drama This City Is Ours with a new teaser trailer for the second series. BAFTA-nominated star James Nelson-Joyce shared the first look with fans, crediting Stephen Graham for his career success.
Teaser Trailer Unveiled
James Nelson-Joyce, 37, delighted followers by reposting the BBC's initial glimpse of the upcoming series. The Liverpudlian actor demonstrated his star quality through his portrayal of troubled gangster Michael Kavanagh in the acclaimed crime thriller's debut run. The BBC signalled the story was far from over when commissioning a second series, and viewers anticipating the continuation of Michael's conflict with the Phelan criminal empire can now celebrate as a preview clip has been unveiled.
The brief teaser features Sammy Davis Jr's I've Gotta Be Me and opens with Michael alongside his partner Diana (Hannah Onslow) savouring the overseas sanctuary they escaped to in the first series finale. Yet this tranquil haven is quickly shattered as Michael finds himself pulled back into the criminal underworld. During a fraught encounter, a cartel leader warns the protagonist that his ordeal is merely beginning.
Cast and Filming
First series regulars Mike Noble, Julie Graham, Saoirse Monica-Jackson and Jack McMullen all feature in footage revealing how conflict will intensify throughout the new run. Liverpudlian Shaun Evans has also joined the ensemble, with second series filming spotted throughout Liverpool in recent months, reports the Liverpool Echo. James reposted the trailer and announced its October arrival on television.
Supporters flocked to the comments section to express their anticipation. One person wrote: "Can not wait! Time to binge the 1st series again to get ready! X" Another remarked: "Omg I am so excited for this." Someone else posted: "Omg I can't wait for this." While another responded: "Oh my god."
BAFTA Recognition
James received a Best Lead Actor nomination at the BAFTAs for his portrayal in the inaugural season. The Liverpudlian spoke to the ECHO in an exclusive red carpet interview and hinted at what awaits in the forthcoming series. He revealed there are "quite a few shocks" though remained guarded about the narrative's trajectory for audiences.
This City Is Ours represents part of Liverpool's cultural renaissance, with James amongst four Best Lead Actor nominees claiming Merseyside roots. He shared his pride at attending the ceremony at Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall. He explained: "I am slightly overwhelmed to be here at the BAFTAs, it feels weird. I was in the car with my mum, dad and two sisters yesterday and my dad said 'from County Road to the BAFTAs lad' and I said 'I know, it is mad' but I am just very lucky."
He added: "I saw my mum's face on the red carpet earlier when she saw Alan Carr, it is little moments like that. It is nice that I get to share and experience these moments with my family. If it weren't for them I definitely would not be here."
Liverpool's Influence and Stephen Graham's Mentorship
Reflecting on how Liverpool has moulded him into the person he is today, he remarked: "I am doing something people only dream of and I just feel lucky. You can't ignore our city [Liverpool], we are from the greatest city in the world. They will try and hold us back and block us, but we always find a way through."
James identified two factors that have enabled him to emerge as the accomplished actor he is today. He explained: "We have a mentality in Liverpool of 'if you lock the door we will come through your window' and then there's Stephen Graham. Stephen Graham has opened the door for me and many other actors. He has held the door open on his way up to the very top. He has not forgotten about giving back and helping people. He gives advice on auditions and agents, I realise how lucky I was to be one of those people he looked out for."
This City Is Ours is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
