Bergerac’s Back, Same Car, New Demons: Damien Molony Takes the Wheel in UKTV Reboot

Bergerac Car Main Image

Same Triumph, New Tricks: ‘Bergerac’ Reboot Blends Nostalgia and Modern Grit

Forget the fingerprint dust; the most crucial piece of forensic evidence in UKTV’s “Bergerac” reboot might just be the license plate. That’s right, Damien Molony isn’t just inheriting John Nettles’ detective mantle; he’s sliding behind the wheel of the exact same Triumph Roadster that graced screens in the 80s classic. Talk about a hand-me-down with horsepower.

But don’t expect a simple nostalgia trip. This 2025 update, hitting U and U&DRAMA, is trading episodic sunshine for a season-long storm of murder, family secrets, and personal demons. Molony’s Bergerac isn’t just solving crimes; he’s battling grief, addiction, and the lingering ghost of his late wife. And while the iconic roadster might evoke memories of simpler times, this Bergerac is travelling a far more treacherous landscape.

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The case itself? A wealthy businessman’s daughter-in-law turns up dead, plunging Bergerac into a world of privilege, lies, and simmering resentments. Zoë Wanamaker (“My Family”), as Bergerac’s ever-watchful mother-in-law, and Philip Glenister (“Life on Mars”), as the grieving patriarch, add their own brand of dramatic gasoline to the fire.

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The decision to embrace a serialized format—a departure from the original’s episodic structure—is a shrewd one. It allows for the kind of complicated character development and intricate plotting that defines today’s top-tier crime dramas, like “Mare of Easttown” and “The Undoing.” By shifting gears from standalone cases to a season-long narrative, UKTV is aiming for “must-watch” status, not just a nostalgic rewatch.

So, can a vintage Triumph and a modern twist ignite a new generation’s passion for “Bergerac”? UKTV is betting the farm—and the car—on it.

Well hello there! I'm the guy who heads the content team at Memorable TV. I've an obsession for film and TV, and a stash of vintage TV magazines plus a wealth of knowledge on all things 1970's. But shh, let's keep that just between us!