The acclaimed detective series Bergerac, which fans have hailed as a 'masterpiece' and even 'better than the original', is set to make a long-awaited return to the BBC after a 35-year absence.
Return to BBC One
The original Bergerac, a police drama set in Jersey, starred John Nettles as DS Jim Bergerac and aired from 1981 to 1991. The series was revived in 2025 on UKTV with Damien Molony taking on the lead role, alongside Zoë Wanamaker, Robert Gilbert, Chloé Sweetlove, and Pippa Haywood.
The first two series of the reboot are currently streaming on U&Drama. Now, for the first time since the original series ended, Bergerac is returning to the BBC. During an appearance on The One Show, Damien Molony confirmed to host Alex Jones that the series will air on BBC One this summer.
Alex announced, 'Damien, you're no stranger to playing a TV detective, and you've been here talking about Bergerac, which is coming to BBC One this summer, isn't it?' A surprised Damien replied, 'This is news to me, but it is wonderful news.'
Alex clarified, 'Series one has been confirmed,' to which Damien responded, 'I am thrilled it is coming to the BBC.' The Daily Mirror has contacted the BBC for further comment.
Mixed Fan Reactions
The first series of the reboot has garnered mixed reviews, earning a 6.6 rating on IMDb. While some viewers consider it superior to the original, others remain less convinced.
One fan on IMDb commented, 'I have fond memories of the original with John Nettles, so there was anxiety about a remake. However, this Bergerac with Damien Moloney is a different deal. It's darker and less of a glossy travelogue for Jersey. Making Charlie a mother-in-law instead of father-in-law works well. Philip Glenister is terrific, exuding menace.'
They added, 'I've binged this and can't wait for the next season.' Another viewer said, 'It's good to see Damien Moloney in a lead role. I enjoyed the series—better than the original. Great casting and filming.'
However, some fans expressed disappointment. One Reddit user wrote, 'I'm enjoying it, but it doesn't feel particularly like Bergerac. I can't understand why they ditched the original theme tune.' Another agreed, 'I can't for the life of me think why they ditched the original theme tune.'
Bergerac is coming to BBC One this summer and is currently available to stream on U&Drama.
