Fans of the cult time-travel drama Life on Mars could be in for a treat, as whispers of a potential sequel series grow louder two decades after the show's conclusion. Co-creator Ashley Pharoah has strongly hinted that new episodes are close to being approved, sparking excitement among its loyal following.
Secrecy and the Scrapyard: A Creator's Hint
In a tantalising statement, Pharoah revealed that "something is stirring in the Life on Mars world." While playing his cards close to his chest, he added a cryptic note for fans: "I'm sworn to secrecy, but the Cortina isn't ready for the scrapyard just yet." This reference to Gene Hunt's iconic Ford Cortina has been interpreted as a clear signal that the beloved characters' journey may not be over.
However, the road back to 1973 faces a significant hurdle. The BBC has confirmed it will not be involved in the project, telling The Sun that "there are no plans for Life on Mars to return to the BBC." This places the potential revival squarely in the hands of other broadcasters or streaming platforms.
The Long Road to 'Lazarus'
The proposed third series, to be named Lazarus after David Bowie's final single, has been in development for several years. Pharoah and his co-writer Matthew Green conceived the idea during the Covid-19 lockdown. They initially pitched it to the BBC, who, according to Green, expressed that they "didn't want to relive past glories."
Financial challenges have also stalled the project. Green revealed that streaming service BritBox declined to commission the series, a decision that "puzzled" the creative team given the persistent fan demand for more stories from the Life on Mars universe.
The original show, which aired for two seasons from 2006 to 2007, followed Manchester police officer Sam Tyler (John Simm). After a car accident, he wakes up in 1973, working under the brash DCI Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister). The critically acclaimed series, inspired by a Twilight Zone episode, won an International Emmy Award for Best Drama.
What Would 'Lazarus' Entail?
If the series moves ahead, Lazarus is set to reunite the original duo, Sam Tyler and Gene Hunt. The plot would see the modern-day characters transported back to 1977. This marks a return to the core pairing after the sequel series Ashes to Ashes (2008-2010) shifted focus to DI Alex Drake (Keeley Hawes) in the 1980s.
The enduring appeal of the franchise, named after classic David Bowie songs, suggests there is still a substantial audience eager for more. Whether Lazarus can overcome the stated financial and broadcaster hurdles remains the central question. For now, fans are left with a hopeful hint from its creator and the promise that Gene Hunt's Cortina might yet roar back to life.
