Image: BBC Press
By Jon Donnis
The immensely popular and critically acclaimed drama Sherwood, created by renowned British writer James Graham (Dear England, Quiz), is set to return for a highly anticipated third series on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Produced by House Productions (Conclave, The Good Mothers), the show has struck a deep chord with viewers and critics alike, establishing itself as a powerful modern drama.
Inspired by the real-life gang wars that plagued Nottinghamshire, often referred to as 'Shottingham,' Sherwood is rooted in the community and history of Graham's hometown. The show's second series recently concluded, earning widespread praise for its gritty, human portrayal of crime and its impact on a tight-knit community. The first episode alone of series two has already garnered over 6.5 million viewers, underscoring its mass appeal. Furthermore, the release of the second series has reignited interest in Sherwood's first, with an impressive 7.2 million streams of earlier episodes since August.
The Genius Behind Sherwood
Sherwood is the brainchild of James Graham, who has long been lauded as one of the UK's most brilliant contemporary writers. His ability to craft deeply personal and politically resonant stories has shone through in both series of Sherwood, and he promises more of the same emotional depth and narrative intricacy in the upcoming third installment.
"It continues to be the greatest privilege to tell stories set in and inspired by the history of my home county of Nottinghamshire," Graham said. He also hinted at new storylines while ensuring that some long-running threads will find their resolution in series three.
Directed by award-winning filmmakers Clio Barnard and Tom George, series two boasted a stellar cast featuring David Morrissey, Monica Dolan, David Harewood, and Lesley Manville, among others. The intricate performances, combined with the writers' deft storytelling, elevated the show into the realm of prestige TV.
A Third Series with New Mysteries
As audiences await more information about Sherwood's third series, the show's executive producers, Juliette Howell and Harriet Spencer of House Productions, expressed their enthusiasm. "The love that the second series of Sherwood has garnered has been incredible to witness," they remarked, underscoring the BBC's commitment to the drama. With new storylines on the horizon, they hinted that fans should brace themselves for more "heart-wrenching, jaw-dropping, and shocking twists."
BBC Drama Director Lindsay Salt echoed this excitement, calling Sherwood one of the "all-time great television dramas." She praised the show's balance of captivating characters, intense storylines, and thought-provoking themes. Salt emphasized the BBC's eagerness to continue collaborating with Graham on the next chapter of Sherwood, which promises to delve deeper into the complex world of Nottinghamshire's troubled community.
The Critics Weigh In
Critics have been effusive in their praise of Sherwood series two, with The Guardian calling it "even more spellbinding than the original masterpiece" and The Telegraph lauding it for its "exceptional grasp of people and place." James Graham's sharp writing and masterful use of real-world events to craft intricate fictional dramas have earned Sherwood comparisons to classic crime series, but it's the show's focus on community, identity, and history that sets it apart.
What's Next?
As Sherwood heads into its third series, audiences can expect a blend of new narratives while some existing arcs come to a dramatic conclusion. With James Graham at the helm and the BBC's backing, Sherwood is poised to maintain its place as one of the UK's most compelling dramas. Filming and casting announcements are expected in the coming months, and fans can catch up on the first two series, which are available in full on BBC iPlayer.
As Sherwood moves forward, it continues to tell stories that resonate far beyond Nottinghamshire, with universal themes of family, loyalty, and the sometimes devastating consequences of the past.
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