The lead actor of a modern reimagining of the popular Jersey-based TV series Bergerac expressed his commitment to honoring the original show. Scheduled for a debut on Thursday, February 27th, the new series features Damian Moloney as the protagonist Jim Bergerac, alongside Zoë Wanamaker and Philip Glenister.
Prior to its UK premiere, the rights to the first season have already been acquired by nine countries. Moloney shared that upon learning about his starring role, his friends and family were most curious about the iconic red Triumph Roadster that Jim drives in the show.
In this updated version of Bergerac, the narrative follows a single major case that Jim investigates across all six episodes, a departure from the episodic format of the original series. Moloney emphasized the appeal of this evolving storyline, taking viewers on a thrilling journey through both emotional turmoil and intense criminal investigations.
Although the original actor John Nettles was offered a cameo appearance in the new series, he opted out. The BBC’s original Bergerac, conceived by Robert Banks Stewart, enjoyed a successful run spanning nine series from 1981 to 1991, capturing picturesque scenes in Jersey’s coastal locales.
Moloney highlighted how the island’s seaside locations added a natural intensity to the show, with windswept beaches and dramatic coastal views contributing to the overall atmosphere. The production team found inspiration in the diverse landscapes, shifting effortlessly from urban settings to sprawling countryside, all within close proximity.
The reboot, supported by a government investment of £1.2m, aims to not only entertain audiences but also stimulate tourism on the island. Moloney expressed confidence that fans of the original series would appreciate seeing Jersey featured prominently once again.
Actress Zoë Wanamaker commended Jersey’s charm, praising its historic architecture and scenic beauty reminiscent of 19th-century Devon. She relished her visits to notable locations like St Brelade’s Bay Hotel, soaking in the vibrant seaside ambiance.
Screenwriter Tom Whithouse underlined the special connection between Jersey and the essence of Bergerac, emphasizing the island’s unique character as integral to the show’s identity. By retaining the core elements of the original series, the production team aimed to offer fans a fresh take while preserving the complexity and depth of the beloved characters.
As the series gears up for its premiere, the creative minds behind the project expressed their hopes for a warm reception from viewers, confident that the spirit of Bergerac would captivate audiences once again.
As a journalist, I carefully considered the essence of why keeping the show rooted in Jersey was deemed essential. “Jersey, as both a setting and a character within the narrative, plays a significant role in defining the unique atmosphere of Bergerac,” remarked a key source close to the production.
“Proximity to France lends Jersey a distinct ambiance not found elsewhere in the UK, infusing it with a touch of luxury,” they elaborated. “Moreover, the island carries with it a certain weight of preconceived notions, adding layers of complexity to its portrayal in the series. These multifaceted aspects combine to create a sense of place that strikes a chord of familiarity with British viewers, despite its unique qualities.”
To stay updated on all things Jersey-related, be sure to connect with BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. For those brimming with story ideas, the channel welcomes submissions via email at channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.
This insight underscores the importance of Jersey as a central element in Bergerac’s identity, underscoring how the island’s distinctive characteristics enrich the show’s narrative and resonate with audiences. Through this lens, the decision to maintain the series’ Jersey-based focus emerges as a deliberate choice to preserve its authentic charm and appeal.
