Fans of the iconic time-travelling police drama Life On Mars have been given a fresh glimmer of hope, as one of its creators has hinted that plans for a third series are quietly moving forward.
A Surprise Hit with Unfinished Business
The show, which first aired 20 years ago, became an unexpected sensation. It starred John Simm as modern-day detective Sam Tyler, who wakes up in 1973 after a car accident, and Phillip Glenister as the politically incorrect DCI Gene Hunt. Despite its popularity, it only ran for two series, followed by the 1980s-set sequel Ashes to Ashes.
Co-creator Ashley Pharoah has now sparked excitement by suggesting the project dubbed 'Lazarus' might not be dead. "Something is stirring in the Life on Mars world," he revealed. "I'm sworn to secrecy but the Cortina isn't ready for the scrapyard just yet."
Financial Hurdles and Streaming Hopes
This news follows years of fan campaigns and previous false dawns. The revival was officially declared dead in June 2023 by co-writer Matthew Graham, who cited insurmountable "financial hurdles" after pitches to the BBC and streamer Britbox failed.
The proposed storyline for Lazarus would have seen Sam Tyler working in Internal Affairs in 2022. Investigating a care home, he would reunite with an ageing Gene Hunt before both were transported back to 1977. The plot was also intended to eventually explore policing in the 1990s.
However, the BBC has recently issued a firm statement denying any involvement: "There are no plans for Life on Mars to return to the BBC." This suggests that if the revival proceeds, it will likely need to find a home on a streaming platform.
Will the Original Stars Return?
The potential return largely hinges on the availability and interest of the original cast. Both John Simm and Phillip Glenister have previously expressed openness to reprising their legendary roles.
The situation regarding Keeley Hawes, who starred as Alex Drake in Ashes to Ashes, is less certain. Writers have indicated she may have been reluctant to play "second fiddle" to the two male leads in a new chapter focused on Sam and Gene.
For now, the iconic Ford Cortina remains in gear, but its destination is unclear. After two decades, the question of whether Sam Tyler and Gene Hunt will finally get their planned third outing continues to intrigue and excite their loyal fanbase.
