“THERE is no Bergerac without Jersey,” said actor Damien Molony, who has taken on the role of the Island’s most famous detective.
The reimagined Bergerac TV series – commissioned by BBC-owned broadcaster UKTV – is due to launch on U and U&DRAMA on 27 February.
Directed by Peaky Blinders director Colm McCarthy, the new six-episode series features Mr Molony in the lead role of Jim Bergerac and is due to offer a “contemporary twist” on the popular detective drama created by Robert Banks Stewart, which starred John Nettles and ran on the BBC between 1981 and 1991.
Speaking to the JEP while filming in the Island last year, Mr Molony said: “From the moment I got the job, I’ve just been really excited to get started.
“It’s probably the job that, when I tell people about it, it’s the most excited people have been about a new job of mine, because of the history of the show and how beloved it was – because it was such a massive part of people’s lives.”
Filming took place in Devon and in the Island over the summer, including scenes with Jersey actor Timothy Renouf.
“It would have been very strange if we hadn’t come to Jersey, so I’m thrilled we are here,” Mr Molony added.
“To be in this beautiful island and also to be surrounded on all sides by the sea, is very different to if you were shooting it in places like Manchester – it definitely adds to it.”
He revealed that those behind the new series had made sure to include some “nostalgic nods” and references that pay homage to the original.
“That’s really important as well, to nod back to the original, because it was so successful and people loved it,” Mr Molony continued.
“I hope the people of Jersey will be really proud to see the Island on TV, and to see that we’ve honoured the original Bergerac – but also added something to it and then brought in, potentially, a new audience.”
Mr Molony will also be in Jersey for the Bergerac premiere, taking place at Cineworld on 24 February.
