Bergerac Gets a Modern Twist: The Iconic Detective is Back in Action

Last Updated on April 22, 2026

The iconic British detective series Bergerac is making a triumphant return to television screens in February 2025, with Irish actor Damien Molony stepping into the shoes of the troubled Jersey detective Jim Bergerac.

The six-part series, airing on U&Drama and streaming service U, promises to bring a contemporary twist to the beloved character while honoring the legacy of the original show that ran from 1981 to 1991.

Unlike the original series, which featured standalone episodes, the 2025 reboot will follow a single, character-driven murder mystery across all six episodes.

The story introduces us to Jim Bergerac as a broken man, struggling with grief and alcoholism following his wife’s death.

When a member of one of Jersey’s wealthiest families is murdered, Chief of Police Uma Dalal calls upon Bergerac to return to work.

The case becomes increasingly complex when a figure from Bergerac’s past emerges with shocking accusations, forcing him to navigate both personal demons and professional challenges.

While investigating the murder, Bergerac must also prove to his daughter Kim and mother-in-law Charlie that he can get his life back on track.

Who’s Who?

This new show is a complete reboot which means Bergerac in 2025 is not related in any way to the original detective.

There are no familial ties or relationships – it’s the same detective just more than 40 years later.

Damien Molony, known for his work in Brassic and Being Human, takes on the challenging role of Jim Bergerac.

Molony has expressed his excitement about bringing a fresh perspective to the iconic character while acknowledging the significant legacy left by John Nettles.

Zoë Wanamaker plays Charlie Hungerford, Bergerac’s mother-in-law with Philip Glenister playing Arthur Wakefield, a wealthy businessman.

Also cast in the show is Sasha Behar as Chief of Police Uma Dalal, Pippa Haywood as Margaret Heaton and Robert Gilbert as Barney Crozier.

Incidentally, John Nettles was offered a part but he turned it down because at 80 years of age he said he was “too old” for the role.

Release Date

The new series of Bergerac began filming in August 2024, with locations spread across Jersey and the UK.

You can expect to see plenty of famous Jersey landmarks, including The Royal Square in St. Helier, Bouley Bay, La Pulente, and the Jersey Opera House.

UK audiences can tune into the series on February 27th, 2025, for the first of six new episodes.

As of yet, there is no word on when or if it will be available outside of the UK – but I will keep you posted!

Differences from the Original

The 2025 reboot of Bergerac marks several significant departures from its predecessor, fundamentally reimagining the series while preserving its core appeal.

Instead of following the original’s episodic format, the new series adopts a serialized narrative structure, weaving one complex case throughout all six episodes.

This allows for deeper exploration of characters and more intricate plotting.

The show takes a notably darker turn, delving deep into the protagonist’s personal struggles and emotional journey, creating a more psychologically complex portrayal of the troubled detective.

Under the direction of Colm McCarthy, known for his work on Peaky Blinders, the series benefits from modern production values and sophisticated cinematography that brings Jersey’s atmospheric landscapes to life in stunning detail.

Perhaps the most striking change is the reimagining of the supporting cast, particularly the transformation of Charlie Hungerford from the original male character into Bergerac’s mother-in-law, adding new layers of family dynamics and interpersonal tension to the narrative.

Why Cozy Crime Fans Should Watch

Crime drama enthusiasts will find much to appreciate in this reimagining of Bergerac.

Rich atmospheric settings of Jersey blend seamlessly with a complex murder mystery, while deep themes of redemption and personal struggle drive the narrative forward.

By focusing on a single case, viewers experience deeper character development and more intricate plotting compared to its predecessor’s episodic format.

Modern storytelling techniques enhance Jersey’s unique character while maintaining respect for original elements that made it special.

Acclaimed director Colm McCarthy brings a grittier, more a more modern style that resonates with contemporary audiences, elevating this classic detective series into something fresh and compelling.

Legacy and Impact

The original Bergerac ran for nine successful seasons on the BBC, attracting up to 15 million viewers at its peak.

The new series aims to honor this legacy while establishing its own identity.

The production has already made a positive impact on Jersey’s economy, with local businesses benefiting from the filming and numerous islanders participating as extras.

For both newcomers and fans of the original series, the 2025 Bergerac promises to deliver a compelling crime drama that balances respect for its source material with bold new creative choices.

With its strong cast, experienced creative team, and fresh approach to the material, this reimagining looks set to introduce a new generation to one of British television’s most memorable detectives.

Bergerac from 1981-1991

Bergerac captivated audiences from October 18, 1981, to December 26, 1991, on BBC1.

Produced through a collaboration between BBC and Australia’s Seven Network, the series found its home on the picturesque island of Jersey.

At its heart was John Nettles’ portrayal of Detective Sergeant Jim Bergerac, a complex character working for Le Bureau des Étrangers, a fictional department handling non-Jersey residents.

Bergerac’s character resonated with audiences through his compelling personal struggles as a recovering alcoholic, a devoted father to a young daughter, and a maverick detective known for his unorthodox methods.

One of the show’s most memorable features was Bergerac’s iconic 1947 Triumph Roadster, which became almost as famous as the detective himself, despite being notoriously temperamental during filming – so much so that producers had to dub Jaguar engine sounds over its actual noise.

The series boasted a strong supporting cast, including Terence Alexander as Charlie Hungerford, Bergerac’s roguish former father-in-law; Deborah Grant as his ex-wife Deborah; Sean Arnold as his superior Barney Crozier; and Liza Goddard as the charismatic jewel thief Philippa Vale, known as the “Ice Maiden.”

Throughout its nine successful seasons, Bergerac achieved remarkable popularity, and significantly boosting Jersey tourism.

The show attracted numerous guest appearances from actors who would later become household names, including Julian Glover, Bill Nighy, and Ray Winstone.

Each episode tackled various crime scenarios, often incorporating controversial topics, supernatural elements, and dark plot twists.

The series concluded with the 1991 Christmas Special All for Love, which suggested an expanded future for Bergerac’s Bureau des Étrangers across all Channel Islands.