New Bergerac Revival Receives Mixed Reactions

The highly anticipated reboot of the classic 80s detective series Bergerac has sparked a mixed reaction from TV critics following its premiere this week, though one aspect everyone seems to agree on is the stunning portrayal of its Jersey backdrop.

Balancing nostalgia with modern sensibilities, the new Bergerac has drawn both praise and criticism. While some see it as a fresh take on a beloved show, others feel it falls short of capturing the essence of the original series, which ran for a decade.

The Radio Times awarded the reboot three out of five stars, stating:

"It’s not faithful enough to please fans of the original, not whizz-bang enough to win over a new generation. Molony is terrific as the titular hero, but Nettles had more sting."

Meanwhile, Digital Spy was more generous, giving it four stars and declaring that the "reboot’s big risk has paid off," suggesting that a key creative decision has made the crime drama "better than ever."

However, not all reviews were as kind. The Sun’s Ally Ross dismissed the show outright, branding it a "woke monstrosity" and criticizing the decision to reimagine Charlie Hungerford as a female character.

The New Statesman’s Rachel Cooke also voiced disappointment, lamenting Bergerac’s return as "half-hearted" and lacking in wit and charm. The audience reaction was just as divided, with viewers taking to social media to share a wide range of opinions after the show aired on U&Drama last night.

A Boost for Jersey Tourism

Despite the debate surrounding the reboot, one clear winner is the island of Jersey itself. With its government investing £1.2 million into the project, there are hopes that the show will drive tourism by inspiring viewers to visit the scenic locations featured on screen.

Jersey Airport has joined the promotional effort, and early signs suggest the island’s visibility is getting a significant boost. Cast and crew have also praised the location, with some even describing it as a character in its own right.

The Radio Times noted: "The island setting is windswept as much as it’s sun-soaked. Expect plentiful shots of characters gazing broodingly out to sea."

Speaking on The One Show on BBC, lead actor Damien Molony (who plays Jim Bergerac) was full of admiration for Jersey’s breathtaking scenery:

"The natural beauty of Jersey is mind-blowing... The weather is incredible, you've got beautiful beaches, tiny little harbours, old castles… it's amazing. I can't believe more things aren't filmed in Jersey."

Co-host Alex Jones seemed sold on the idea, enthusiastically responding, "Summer 2025, here we come, Jersey!"

Whether the reboot itself proves to be a long-term success remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Jersey’s landscapes have left a lasting impression on critics, actors, and audiences alike.