Thriller fans are in for a treat with reports the BBC is bringing back a Bafta-winning show for a third season.
Jimmy McGovern’s series Time is poised for a return, with filming set to get underway for new episodes which could air on BBC One in 2026.
The first series, which aired across three episodes in 2021 and was set in a men’s prison, won a Bafta for best mini-series, with actors Sean Bean and Stephen Graham getting trophies for their respective roles as inmate Mark and prison officer Eric.
A second series followed two years later, with Bella Ramsey (Kelsey), Tamara Lawrance (Abi) and Jodie Whittaker (Orla) leading the cast in female-only jail.
According to reports, the planned third season will be set in a young offenders institution, which is said to be a ‘coincidence’ after Stephen’s recent success in Adolescence.
‘The parallels between the new show’s central topic and Netflix’s recent hit, Adolescence, are obvious, but entirely coincidental,’ a source told The Sun.
However, it’s suggested despite the similarities of dealing with ‘adolescent offending and its consequences’, the new Time episodes ‘would most likely have gone down this path anyway’ even if hadn’t been for Adolescence’s huge success.
The insider added: ‘But it is certainly a theme which will prove highly immersive for audiences who have already been introduced to the world of young offenders through Adolescence.’
Meanwhile, casting is reportedly yet to be decided, but the source said ‘the lead roles are guaranteed to be sought after’.
The BBC has declined to comment on the reports.
Fans will no doubt be thrilled at the prospect of another story from writer Jimmy, with viewers previously hailing the show as among the best the BBC has produced.
On Google, fan David Roberts wrote: ‘Gripping, dangerous, insightful, insidious, harmful, touching, cruel, mesmerising, thought provoking, challenging to watch, detailed characters, real, moving, family centred, gritty, life affirming!’
Another viewer, James Goldman, added: ‘I’m pretty sure this is the best programme I’ve seen come out of the BBC ever.’
‘Time is easily the best TV I’ve watched in a while,’ agreed Penny Griffin. ‘With such powerful storytelling and beautiful acting, I honestly cannot think of a flaw.’
And Keith Cairns wrote: ‘One of the greatest programmes I’ve ever seen. Riveting and superb acting.’
Others praised season 1 duo Sean and Stephen for their ‘magnetic’ performances, while the second series has been described as a ‘triumphant continuation’.
Hopefully a third season can rise to such lofty heights!
Time is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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