The BBC drama This City is Ours will return for a second series after attracting more than six million viewers, the broadcaster has confirmed. Filmed in Liverpool, the eight-episode thriller about the lives and loves of the Phelan family - operating against the backdrop of drug trafficking - has become the corporation's most-watched new drama this year. Starring Sean Bean and Julie Graham, it featured Liverpudlian actors James Nelson-Joyce – who has beentouted as a potential James Bond replacement- and Jack McMullen. Creator Stephen Butchard said he had been "blown away by the incredibly positive response", adding: "I can't thank the audience enough for their time and emotional investment." The series, which chronicles the battle for control over a cocaine-trafficking gang, filmed some scenes in Spain and will be sold to foreign broadcasters. The saga also won viewers' hearts with lighter moments that included Sean Bean, as gang leader Ronnie Phelan, leading a charge of golf buggies to the theme from the film Apocalypse Now. A scene featuring thecast line-dancingto the 1950s song The House of Bamboo has led tovarious imitationsthat have gone viral online. Dubbed the "Scouse Sopranos" – in reference to the successful US crime drama – the show was partly funded by the Liverpool Film Office, with theregional authoritysaying the production boosted the local economy by £9m. Details have not yet been released about the second series cast and filming start date. Director of BBC Drama Lindsay Salt credited the production team who "brought it to the screen so classily". "I'm delighted that we now get to build on this fantastic first run and show that things are only just getting started for this very special series," she said. Although the series climax airs on BBC One later on Sunday, the full season has beenavailable on BBC iPlayerwhere about three million people have already watched the finale. Executive producer Sian McWilliams, from Left Bank Pictures, said: "After the tumultuous events of the season one finale, the gang rivalries and betrayals have escalated to new levels, new ones have just begun, and there is a lot of unfinished business." Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside onBBC Soundsand follow BBC Merseyside onFacebook,X, andInstagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight onBBC iPlayer.
This City is Ours to return for a second series
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"BBC Confirms Second Series of Popular Drama 'This City is Ours'"
Bbc News
7.4
TruthLens AI Summary
The BBC's popular drama series "This City is Ours" has officially been confirmed for a second season following its impressive viewership numbers, which exceeded six million. This eight-episode thriller, set against the vibrant backdrop of Liverpool, explores the complex lives of the Phelan family, who find themselves entangled in the dangerous world of drug trafficking. The show's success can be attributed to its engaging storytelling and strong performances from the cast, which includes notable actors such as Sean Bean and Julie Graham. The series has captivated audiences with not only its intense plot but also moments of levity, exemplified by memorable scenes such as a golf buggy chase set to the iconic theme from "Apocalypse Now". The local Liverpool community has also benefited from the show, with the production reportedly injecting £9 million into the regional economy, a testament to the collaboration with the Liverpool Film Office that helped fund the project.
Creator Stephen Butchard expressed gratitude for the audience's enthusiastic response, highlighting the emotional investment viewers have made in the characters and their stories. As the first season nears its conclusion, with the finale available on BBC iPlayer, anticipation builds for the upcoming season. Executive producer Sian McWilliams hinted at escalating tensions and unresolved conflicts among the characters, promising that the narrative will delve deeper into gang rivalries and betrayals. The director of BBC Drama, Lindsay Salt, praised the production team for their exceptional work and expressed excitement about expanding the series further. While specific details regarding the cast and filming dates for the second series are still under wraps, the enthusiasm surrounding the show suggests that it will continue to draw in audiences both locally and internationally, as it is set to be sold to foreign broadcasters. Fans eagerly await what lies ahead for the Phelan family and the gripping world they inhabit.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights the return of the BBC drama "This City is Ours" for a second series after its successful initial run, indicating a strong viewer engagement and financial impact on the local economy. The news emphasizes the show's popularity, with over six million viewers, and its appeal through character-driven narratives set against a backdrop of crime and community life.
Implications of the Announcement
The confirmation of a second series serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it aims to solidify the show's position within the competitive landscape of television dramas, particularly as it is labeled the most-watched new drama for the BBC this year. This announcement can foster a sense of community pride in Liverpool, where the show is filmed, and may also contribute to future tourism and local economic initiatives.
Audience Perception
The article seeks to shape a positive perception of the show, portraying it as a beloved series that resonates emotionally with viewers. The creator's gratitude towards the audience suggests a desire to cultivate a loyal fanbase that feels valued and engaged. By referencing viral moments from the show, the article creates a sense of shared experience among viewers, enhancing its cultural relevance.
Potential Omissions
While the article focuses on the show's success, it may downplay any criticisms or controversies surrounding themes of crime and drug trafficking. By not addressing these potentially sensitive topics, the article avoids presenting a more complex narrative that could affect viewer sentiment or public discourse regarding the portrayal of such issues.
Manipulation Assessment
The article's manipulative potential is moderate. It employs celebratory language and emphasizes viewer engagement, which may lead audiences to overlook any negative aspects of the series or its themes. The focus on economic benefits and community pride can also divert attention from the show's darker narratives, creating a more favorable public image.
Comparison with Other News
In the broader context of media coverage, this article aligns with a trend of emphasizing local success stories, particularly in the entertainment industry. It reflects a growing focus on regional productions that contribute to local economies, paralleling similar narratives seen in other successful British dramas.
Societal and Economic Impact
The announcement may have several implications for society and the economy. It could spur local investment in film and television, attract more productions to Liverpool, and enhance community involvement in the arts. Additionally, positive media coverage may influence political support for funding the creative industries.
Target Audience
The series appears to appeal primarily to audiences interested in crime dramas and regional storytelling. By portraying relatable characters and local culture, the show may attract viewers from similar backgrounds or those with a vested interest in Liverpool.
Market Influence
While the article may not directly impact stock markets, it could influence investments in the entertainment sector, particularly for companies involved in television production. Shows that achieve significant viewership can sometimes lead to increased funding or partnerships in related industries.
Geopolitical Relevance
From a global perspective, the news does not seem to have significant geopolitical implications. However, it reflects broader trends in the entertainment industry regarding the localization of content and regional storytelling, which can resonate with ongoing discussions about cultural representation.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article. The narrative style and content suggest a human touch typical of media journalism. However, AI tools could have been employed for data analysis regarding viewer statistics or trends in audience engagement.
In summary, the article presents a positive outlook on the success of "This City is Ours," focusing on viewer engagement and economic benefits while potentially omitting more complex discussions surrounding its themes. The manipulation rate is moderate, as it seeks to foster community pride and excitement without addressing potential criticisms.