BBC Three orders second series

BBC Three has commissioned a second series of Bluestone 42, its comedy set in a bomb disposal unit serving in Afghanistan.

Channel controller Zai Bennett today confirmed a second series of six half-hour episodes – just as the final episode of the first run has ended.

The show has been attracting audiences of around 2million per episode, if repeats and iPlayer views are taken into consideration.

Bennett said: ‘I’m incredibly proud of this bold, brave and hugely funny comedy drama series which has been enjoying big audiences on BBC Three. The cast, crew and writers have played an absolute blinder.’

Mark Freeland, head of the BBC’s in-house comedy department, which makes the show, says his unit is ‘at its best when we try extraordinary and slightly scary things. I believe Bluestone 42 is both.’

He added: ‘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.“

Critics generally praised the show for being confident and ‘deft’ in tackling a sensitive subject – skipping accusations it could have been offensive to serving troops – but most agreed it could have been funnier. However it is officially billed as a comedy-drama.

Bluestone 42 was created by James Cary and Richard Hurst, who are best known for writing the knockabout slapstick comedy of Miranda. Its cast includes Oliver Chris, Kelly Adams and Gary Carr.

The final episode of the current series goes out on BBC Three tonight at 10pm.

Published: 23 Apr 2013