Bergerac is back!
If you were a fan of the original ‘Bergerac’ detective series, set against the picturesque backdrop of Jersey and starring John Nettles, we hope you’ll be excited to learn that Bergerac is back and coming to a TV screen near you very soon.
If you haven’t watched the original series but enjoy a gripping crime drama, then you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for this exciting reboot.
Pictured: John Nettles as Jim Bergerac leaning against the 1949 Triumph Roadster that he drove in the original series.
Damien Molony, best known for his roles in the TV shows Derry Girls and Brassic, will take over the role made famous by John Nettles in the 1980s. The series will be directed by Colm McCarthy (The Bastard Son & the Devil Himself, Peaky Blinders).
Doctor Who writer Toby Whithouse is set to bring the drama to life, saying it was a “rare honour” to bring back a show as “iconic as Bergerac.”
Filming for the new six-episode first season will kicked off in August 2024 and is described by Broadcaster UKTV as a “modern reimagining” of the show.
The original BBC One series ran for a decade between 1981 and 1991. Its mixture of stunning Jersey scenery, glamorous characters and intriguing crimes proved a massive hit, attracting nearly 15 million viewers at the height of its popularity and resulting in a spike in visitors to the island.
Want to know more about Bergerac’s official case file, including cast and plot details, release date and more info on characters and locations? Then read on!
Who has been cast in the new reboot?
Fans have been waiting with anticipation to hear which actor will be chosen to play the illustrious TV detective.
Now we can officially announce that Irish actor Damien Molony, who has credits including Derry Girls, Brassic, The Split and Crashing to his name, will star in the reboot.
Zoë Wanamaker (My Family, Shadow and Bone, Black Ops) will play the role of Jim’s mother-in-law Charlie Hungerford alongside Philip Glenister (Steeltown Murders, Life on Mars) as Arthur Wakefield and Jerseyman Timothy Renouf as Julien Wakefield. Further cast include Pippa Haywood (Green Wing, Bodyguard) as Margaret Heaton, Robert Gilbert (Big Boys, Killing Eve) as Barney Crozier, Sasha Behar (Unforgotten, Casualty) as Uma Dalal and Celine Arden (Us or Them) as Kara.
Writer Whithouse revealed that “just like his predecessor, our Bergerac is complex, driven, brilliant and flawed.”
What does the new Bergerac mean for Jersey?
“For many, the words ‘Jersey’ and ‘Bergerac’ are synonymous, and we are delighted for the iconic TV series to return to our island’s beautiful shores for filming this summer. The modern re-imagining of Bergerac presents an opportunity to celebrate the show’s legacy in Jersey, whilst reaching a new generation of fans who will be eager to ‘set jet’ to the featured locations. We look forward to working with UKTV, Banijay UK, and BlackLight TV to showcase Jersey’s unique charm and picturesque landscapes through the lens of this beloved show in a fresh, contemporary way.”
Tricia Warwick, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Jersey.
Where can I watch the new Bergerac series?
The exact release is to be confirmed but we do know that the new Bergerac series will air on Drama in 2025 and be available to stream for free on UKTV Play.
What is the plot of Bergerac?
The original series followed the escapades of Detective Sergeant Jim Bergerac, a free-spirited yet troubled detective who finds himself working in Jersey, solving crimes whilst navigating the complexities of his personal life. Bergerac tackled cases ranging from catching jewel thieves to thwarting smugglers and even solving murders.
The new series will see Bergerac “thrown into a knotty, high-stakes police investigation and challenged to his very core.” The series will also see the detective “forced to confront his demons, while trying to save his family and career”.
Where Bergerac solved a different case in each episode in the original series, the new series will tell one single mystery that’s said to be “character-led” and spanning all six episodes.
What made Bergerac unique?
“Bergerac” stood out for its stunning Jersey locations, blending thrilling detective stories with the island’s unique charm and scenery. The series not only showcased the beauty of Jersey but also integrated local culture and characters into its storytelling.”
Pictured: Louise Jameson as Susan Young and John Nettles as Jim Bergerac in front of Mont Orgueil Castle.
Who were the main characters in the original series of Bergerac?
Pictured: John Nettles as Jim Bergerac , Deborah Grant as Deborah Bergerac and Terence Alexander as Charlie Hungerford.
Jim Bergerac (John Nettles)
Charlie Hungerford (Terence Alexander)
Deborah Bergerac (Deborah Grant)
Diamante Lil (Mela White)
Iconic Jersey Locations Featured in the original Bergerac TV show
Jersey’s stunning beaches, quaint fishing harbours, dramatic headlands and bustling town were all used as locations for the original Bergerac. Time will tell which locations feature in the new series. For now, here’s a recap of some of the stunning spots featured in the 1980s show.
St. Helier
St. Helier, the bustling capital of the island, featured prominently in the series. Many scenes were shot around the harbour offering viewers picturesque views of the marina and the town’s historic architecture.
St. Helier hotspots
Mont Orgueil Castle
This iconic medieval landmark sits majestically over Gorey Harbour in the east of the island, providing a dramatic backdrop for many episodes. Its imposing presence and historical significance added depth to the series’ setting.
Gorey hotspots
St. Brelade’s Bay
This stunning beach was a frequent location for scenes that required a serene and beautiful coastal setting. Its golden sands and clear waters made it a perfect spot for both tense and tranquil moments. The picturesque church at the western end of the bay was also often used for filming.
St. Brelade's hotspots
The Old Court House, St. Aubin
A popular pub and restaurant overlooking St. Aubin’s Harbour with its instantly recognisable window that resembles the stern of an old sailing ship, The Old Courthouse was known as ‘The Royal Barge’ in the original series.
St. Aubin's hotspots
Rozel Bay
A quaint fishing harbour in the north-eastern corner of the island, Rozel Bay, was often used to depict the island’s more secluded and charming side. The colourful boats and peaceful atmosphere made it a memorable location in the series.
Rozel hotspots
Noirmont Point
This headland offered dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of the sea, making it a favourite for more intense and dramatic scenes and highlighting Jersey’s rugged natural beauty.
Hotspots near Noirmont Point
Stay tuned...
Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting Bergerac reboot as filming kicks off on-island this summer.
Or if you’ve been inspired by Bergerac’s Jersey escapades, why not start planning your own island adventure today?