Matthew Graham, co-creator of the hit BBC series Life on Mars, has confirmed that a third and final series is in development. The new instalment will be set across the 1970s, 1980s, and an alternate present day.
The original show aired from 2006 to 2007, following Detective Sam Tyler (John Simm), who after a car accident finds himself transported back to 1970s Manchester. It was a ratings success, known for its soundtrack and the dynamic between Tyler and his abrasive boss, DCI Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister). A spin-off, Ashes to Ashes, aired in 2008.
In a Twitter webchat, Graham stated: 'We would never make another Mars unless we really had something to say and could push the envelope all over again. Finally, we have something.' He hinted at Glenister's return, adding: 'There are bad things and there are monsters... But to get to you they have to get through the Guv [Gene Hunt]. And the Guv is putting his driving gloves on.'
The final series, comprising four or five episodes, will be set in Manchester and London. Graham hopes to bring back as many original cast members as possible, including Liz White as DC Annie Cartwright and Lee Ross as DCI Derek Litton, describing the reunion as 'Avengers Assemble'. He also mentioned a potential show-within-a-show format called Tyler: Murder Division.
Despite posting the announcement on April Fools' Day, Graham confirmed it was not a joke. The BBC has not yet officially greenlit the series, following a previous revival proposal that was reportedly turned down in 2018 due to financial reasons.
