Bergerac Reboot: A New Chapter for the Iconic Detective
The beloved 80s detective series Bergerac is making a comeback, but this time it’s being reimagined for a new generation. Originally starring John Nettles, this reboot is being brought to life by UKTV and acclaimed writer Toby Whithouse. The central character, Jim Bergerac, still carries a heavy emotional load; he is now a widow, grappling with strained relations with his teenage daughter and an ongoing struggle with alcoholism. Fans of the original series will be pleased to know that the story is set against the picturesque backdrop of Jersey, the charming Channel Island where the original show was filmed. Bergerac’s iconic burgundy Triumph Roadster and leather jacket will also make a nostalgic return, but with a fresh twist: his former father-in-law, Charlie Hungerford, is now portrayed by Zoe Wanamaker as his mother-in-law.
When and Where to Watch the Bergerac Reboot
The new iteration of Bergerac will premiere on U&Drama on Thursday, 27 February, at 9 PM. This six-episode series will focus on a single case, a departure from the original format where each episode featured a different crime for the detective to solve. The episodes will air weekly on Thursdays, concluding on 3 April. For those who prefer streaming, all six episodes will be available on U starting from 27 February. U&Drama is a free-to-air channel that is part of the UKTV network, accessible on platforms like U, Sky, Virgin Media, NOW, Freeview, Freesat, and Freely.
Meet the Cast of the Bergerac Reboot
Damien Molony as Jim Bergerac
Leading the cast is Damien Molony, stepping into the shoes of the new Jim Bergerac—a detective, a grieving widower, a father, and a man battling his inner demons. Molony describes his character as “completely heartbroken,” having recently lost his wife to a swift and devastating illness. “He’s drinking heavily, and his relationship with his teenage daughter, Kim, has deteriorated,” he shares. Known for his role as vampire Hal Yorke in BBC Three’s Being Human, the 41-year-old Irish actor has also appeared in Ripper Street, Suspects, GameFace, Brassic, and The Split.
Zoe Wanamaker as Charlie Hungerford
Zoë Wanamaker brings depth to the role of Charlie Hungerford, Jim’s mother-in-law, a woman of wealth and connections. She describes her character as “extremely bright and having married into money,” but also notes that Charlie feels quite lonely, as she is a widow herself. Wanamaker is a renowned actress, known for her roles in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and My Week with Marilyn. On television, she is celebrated for her performances as Susan Harper in My Family and Ariadne Oliver in Agatha Christie’s Poirot. Her stage work has earned her two Olivier Awards.
Philip Glenister as Arthur Wakefield
In a notable role, Philip Glenister portrays Arthur Wakefield, a wealthy businessman with a ruthless streak. Glenister describes his character as someone who has made significant enemies due to his success. He is best known for his iconic role as DCI Gene Hunt in Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes, and his extensive television credits also include Roger Roger, Clocking Off, State of Play, Demons, Outcast, and Belgravia.
Pippa Haywood as Margaret Heaton
Pippa Haywood takes on the role of Margaret Heaton, adding her unique flair to the cast. The British actress is well-remembered for her role as Helen Brittas in the BBC comedy series The Brittas Empire and as Joanna Clore in Green Wing. More recently, she appeared in Netflix’s Bridgerton as the Duke of Hastings’s housekeeper, Mrs. Colson, and as Claire Jenkins in the adaptation of Anthony Horowitz’s Magpie Murders.
- Chloé Sweetlove as Kim Bergerac (The Crow Girl, Tutankhamun)
- Sasha Behar as Chief of Police Uma Dalal (Unforgotten, Foundation)
- Robert Gilbert as Barney Crozier (Big Boys, Killing Eve)
- Timothy Renouf as Julien Wakefield (A Very British Scandal, The Laureate)
- Stephen Wight as John Blakely (The Bay, Screw)
- Celine Arden as Kara Molloy (Bloods, Father Brown)
- Luke Nunn as Simon Calvert (Grantchester, The Last Kingdom)
- Ayesha Antoine as Chloe Havron (Queenie, Casualty)
Filming Locations for the Bergerac Reboot
Continuing in the tradition of its predecessor, the reboot of Bergerac has been primarily filmed on the stunning Channel Island of Jersey. The production benefited from £1.2 million in funding from the Jersey Government, recognizing the tourism boost that the original series provided. Filming locations spanned the island, from St Brelade and St Helier in the south to Gorey in the east, and St Ouen’s in the west.
Jersey-born actor Timothy Renouf described filming in his hometown as surreal, likening it to a “slightly out-of-body Truman Show experience.” He noted that they filmed at his former school, Victoria College, and at St Brelade’s Church, where his parents were married. Molony expressed his gratitude for the breathtaking locations, recalling an early morning shoot at Bouley Bay that featured a stunning sunrise used as a sunset in the series. He shared, “We were lucky to have beautiful weather while filming at St Brelade’s Bay, where we could swim during breaks and enjoy ice cream.”
The Premise of the Reboot
In this new narrative, Jersey-based detective Jim Bergerac finds himself at a crossroads, dealing with the aftermath of his wife’s death and grappling with personal demons. On leave from the force, he is called back to investigate the murder of a member of one of the island’s wealthiest families, the Wakefields. Chief of Police Uma Dalal, played by Sasha Behar, insists on having their best detective on the case. As he attempts to reclaim his former prowess, Bergerac also strives to prove to his daughter Kim and mother-in-law Charlie Hungerford that he is back on track. However, as the investigation unfolds, a figure from Bergerac’s past re-emerges, presenting a shocking accusation that could jeopardize everything. Can he solve the case, or will the pressure push him over the edge?
