The BBC has officially confirmed the highly anticipated return of its critically acclaimed drama, Time, for a third series. In exciting news for fans, David Tennant has signed on for a leading role in the new instalment of the BAFTA-winning anthology.
New Cast and Returning Faces
Created by the renowned writer Jimmy McGovern, Time is set within the intense environment of a young offenders' institution. The upcoming three-part series will see David Tennant portray Prison Officer Bailey, a veteran officer grappling with his own personal crisis.
Meanwhile, Siobhan Finneran is set to reprise her role as prison chaplain Mary-Louise, having appeared in both previous series. Her character's journey takes a compelling turn as she arrives at the young offenders' institution having lost her faith.
Series Three Plot Unveiled
The official synopsis for the new series promises another powerful and thought-provoking narrative. When a tragedy occurs within the prison walls, Marie-Louise finds herself in direct conflict with Officer Bailey.
Bailey possesses crucial knowledge about the circumstances that led to the major incident, the synopsis teases, but the question remains whether he will confess before being consumed by guilt.
The story will also follow two teenage young offenders, Peter and James, as they navigate the terrifying initial weeks of their incarceration. Their struggles include James confronting his broken parents after a violent act and Peter wrestling with the truth about an innocent man's death, torn by family loyalty. An unlikely friendship between them offers a potential shift in their futures, but within the volatile prison environment, the possibility of real change remains uncertain.
Creative Team Expresses Excitement
Jimmy McGovern shared his enthusiasm for the new series, stating: 'Siobhan Finneran is back! And we've got a wonderful leading man in David Tennant. And a brilliant director in Paul Whittington. I think it's going to be wonderful.'
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, added praise for McGovern's storytelling: 'Jimmy McGovern is a master at creating brave, thought-provoking dramas that deeply resonate with BBC viewers, so we are thrilled to be back for a third run of Time. With David Tennant and Siobhan Finneran leading the cast, Samuel Bailey co-writing, Paul Whittington directing and the team at BBC Studios Fiction producing, we are all set for another powerful and memorable piece of work from Jimmy.'
The series has a formidable reputation to uphold. The first series, which starred Sean Bean and Stephen Graham, achieved a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The second series, featuring Jodie Whittaker and Bella Ramsey, maintains an impressive 93% rating.
News of the show's return was initially revealed back in July, with insiders noting the timely themes around adolescent offending, which are expected to prove highly immersive for audiences.
