BBC One Sets Premiere Date For The A Word Season 3

BBC One has officially confirmed the return of The A Word for its third series, with the premiere set for Tuesday 5th May 2020 at 9 pm. Fans of the show have long been awaiting the continuation of the Hughes family story, and the new season promises more emotional depth, new challenges, and further exploration of themes that have made the drama such a success.

The third season picks up some time after the events of the previous one, showing how much has changed for the Hughes family. Joe is now ten years old, and his parents, Alison and Paul, are living apart, facing the complexities of separation and co-parenting. The new episodes are set to explore how this dynamic impacts Joe’s world, as well as the wider family circle, with plenty of heartfelt and thought-provoking moments.

The core cast is returning, including Max Vento as Joe, Lee Ingleby as Paul, Morven Christie as Alison, and Christopher Eccleston as Maurice. Their familiar presence ensures continuity, while new cast members, including Julie Hesmondhalgh, Sarah Gordy, and David Gyasi, will bring fresh perspectives and storylines. This mix of returning favourites and intriguing new characters is expected to keep the series both familiar and fresh.

One of the major plotlines teased for this season is Rebecca’s pregnancy, which will introduce a new dimension to the family’s story. As with earlier seasons, the series will continue to balance the personal with the universal, looking at how individual struggles reflect wider social themes. Joe’s ongoing journey with autism remains at the heart of the show, providing insight into the joys and challenges of family life.

Visually, the Lake District setting continues to be a defining feature of the series. The sweeping landscapes paired with the intimate interiors reflect both the beauty and the difficulties of life for the Hughes family. The cinematography and tone are expected to remain consistent, giving the show its distinct style that blends quiet tenderness with bursts of humour and drama.

Series 3 will air weekly on BBC One, but for those who prefer to watch at their own pace, all episodes will also be available on BBC iPlayer from the premiere date. This allows viewers to either binge the entire series or savour it week by week, depending on their preference.

Anticipation among fans has been steadily building, with much discussion around how Joe’s character will develop as he grows older, how Alison and Paul will manage their evolving relationship, and how Maurice will continue to adapt to the family’s changes. The new season has raised expectations of even more layered storytelling, emotional honesty, and authentic representation.

With its premiere now set, The A Word Season 3 is positioned to deliver another deeply moving and relatable story. Combining family drama, social commentary, and humour, the new series is ready to reaffirm why it has resonated so strongly with audiences. For fans, the wait is almost over, and the Hughes family is about to return to the heart of the nation’s screens.