BBC Three has renewed its military dramedy series Bluestone 42 for a second season, set to air in 2014. The renewal comes as the series is pulling in big ratings for BBC Three, averaging nearly 2 million viewers per episode across various platforms. Six episodes have been ordered for the show’s second season.
Created by James Cary and Richard Hurst, Bluestone 42 follows a British bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan and features a group of soldiers who really enjoy being soldiers. The series was carefully researched and informed by serving and former members of the armed forces and military experts. Bluestone 42 is produced by BBC In-House Comedy Productions and stars Oliver Chris (Green Wing), Kelly Adams (Hustle), Gary Carr (Death In Paradise), Katie Lyons (Boy A), Stephen Wight (The Paradise), Jamie Quinn (Taggart), Scott Hoatson (Case Histories), Tony Gardner (Fresh Meat) and Keeno Lee Hector (Beaver Falls).
“I’m incredibly proud of this bold, brave and hugely funny comedy drama series which has been enjoying big audiences on BBC Three” said BBC Three Controller Zai Bennett. “The cast, crew and writers have played an absolute blinder in this important series which completes and complements BBC Three’s already extensive coverage of the war in Afghanistan.”
While Mark Freeland, Head of BBC In-house Comedy, added: “In-house Comedy is at its best when we try extraordinary and slightly scary things. I believe Bluestone 42 is both. We tried to excite audiences, as well as respect the subject matter and those in conflict. The team cannot wait to pick up this challenge again.“
