As the iconic detective series ‘Bergerac’ returns to screens, Damien Molony steps into the shoes of Jim Bergerac, bringing a fresh perspective to the beloved character. The reimagined series premieres tomorrow on U&Drama, offering a darker and more serialized narrative than its predecessor.
‘Jim Bergerac is a detective in Jersey and when viewers meet him at the start of our series, he is completely heartbroken,’ says Damien. ‘He’s just lost his wife to a devastatingly brief illness, he’s drinking heavily and his relationship with his teenage daughter, Kim, has fallen apart. It’s really not looking great for him.’
Departing from the original series’ episodic structure, the new ‘Bergerac’ presents a continuous storyline over six episodes. Molony explains, ‘One big difference about this new version of Bergerac is that we have one big case that Jim investigates across all six episodes, instead of it being a case a week like the original.’ This format allows for a deeper exploration of Jim’s personal journey alongside the central investigation.
Set against the picturesque yet brooding backdrop of Jersey, the island plays a pivotal role in the series’ atmosphere. Damien remarks, ‘There are huge, vast, windswept beaches that, on a rainy day, look dark, brooding, foreboding and dangerous.’ This setting enhances the show’s moody and suspenseful tone, providing a stark contrast to the original series.
Fans of the original ‘Bergerac’ can look forward to nostalgic nods, including the return of the iconic Triumph Roadster. Damien shares, ‘Fans will also get the chance to see the Triumph Roadster again and I’m looking forward to them seeing this wonderfully difficult relationship between Jim Bergerac and Charlie Hungerford.’ With Zoë Wanamaker portraying Charlie Hungerford, the series introduces fresh dynamics while honoring its roots.
All episodes available on U and U&Drama from 27th February
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