BLOODLANDS RENEWED FOR SECOND SERIES ON BBC ONE

The critically acclaimed 'Irish-noir' drama which has kept the nation hooked for the past four weeks concluded on Sunday night, as audiences were shocked by the revelations about the complex character of DCI Tom Brannick and what his future might entail.

Bloodlands launched with an average of 8.2 million viewers, making it the biggest new BBC drama launch since last June. In Northern Ireland, the premiere episode had a 52 percent consolidated audience share (live and time-shifted viewing), making it the highest BBC drama to launch locally on record.

Following this success, the BBC have ordered a second series from writer Chris Brandon, who had his first original drama commission in Bloodlands.

Jed Mercurio said: "Everyone at HTM Television is thrilled our debut production has been recommissioned. It’s a tribute to the quality of Chris Brandon’s writing, the hard work of our crew and the brilliant performance of our cast led by James Nesbitt. We’re grateful for the outstanding support we’ve received from the BBC and Northern Ireland Screen and can’t wait to reward Bloodlands fans with another twisty case for Brannick and co."

Writer Chris Brandon added: "I’m absolutely delighted that Tom Brannick’s story will continue with a new series of Bloodlands. It has been phenomenal to get such a positive response to James Nesbitt’s astounding performance, and the excellent work of his fellow cast and crew. What a privilege to begin another adventure with HTM Television and the BBC, in Northern Ireland – I can’t wait."

Leading star James Nesbitt said: "I’m thrilled that viewers responded to Bloodlands so positively and that we will be returning for a second series. I’m always happy to be back in Northern Ireland and to reveal even more about Tom Brannick."

Piers Wenger, Director of BBC Drama, added: "We’ve been overwhelmed by the audience response to Bloodlands and are thrilled to announce that the series is returning. Chris’ scripts shine a light on to tensions in Northern Ireland, both historic and present day, and it’s a testament to his skills as a dramatist, to a virtuoso performance from Jimmy Nesbitt and the care taken by all at HTM Television, that the series has been so beloved by audiences in Northern Ireland and throughout the UK."

All episodes of Bloodlands are available now on BBC iPlayer.