BBC AXES critically-acclaimed drama after just ONE series – despite Oscar-nominated creator’s plans for even more episodes

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BBC bosses have reportedly axed the critically acclaimed drama This Town after just one series.

The Peaky Blinders series, brilliantly crafted by the mind of its creator, Steven Knight at the age of 66, was largely appreciated by both critics and audiences. It garnered acclaim for its authentic depiction of the 1980s era, captivating soundtrack, and engrossing narrative storytelling.

The series was played out in Birmingham and Coventry, with a soundtrack provided by renowned local acts such as UB40 and The Specials.

The narrative unfolds around an extended family and four youths who became entangled in the dynamic and renowned music world of the early 1980s.

Steven was optimistic that this town would emulate the success of Peaky Blinders, making it his next major triumph.

Last year in March, when the initial series was broadcast, he didn’t hide his desire to carry on the narrative further, stating: “Indeed, I have a plentiful supply of concepts for additional episodes ahead.

Initially, I expressed my hope that our journey with these captivating characters would continue indefinitely, but unfortunately, the powers that be at the BBC have opted not to extend the show’s life span.

A representative from the BBC expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Steven Knight, the cast, and the team behind “This Town,” stating that a significant portion of its success is owed to Steven’s deep-rooted affection for the West Midlands region.

We’re excited to collaborate with him on upcoming ventures and are currently discussing what lies ahead.

Although the show recently received the Royal Television Society Award for Best Limited Series and Single Drama, it experienced a significant drop in viewership throughout its six-week broadcast. Initially attracting over 3.2 million viewers for its debut, the show struggled to sustain that level of interest as the episodes progressed.

As reported by The Sun, an insider from BBC revealed that the reason for canceling the show had nothing to do with Steven’s packed schedule, as he is currently working on a ten-part World War Two series titled “Roads To Freedom.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but gush that the reason this production truly shined wasn’t merely because of the stellar ensemble, graced by the radiant Michelle Dockerry from Downton Abbey. Nope, it was something much more magical!

Daily Mail has contacted the BBC for comment.  

Despite some challenges, things are looking up for Steven, since he has recently secured a job writing the new James Bond film, which Amazon MGM Studios announced earlier this week.

The renowned British writer, famous for crafting the popular BBC crime series Peaky Blinders featuring Cillian Murphy, has long held writing a James Bond script as an item on his personal wish list.

Presently, the most recent James Bond movie is being worked on, and it will be helmed by Denis Villeneuve, who directed Dune. Amazon MGM Studios are now in charge of the project following the relinquishment of creative control by longtime producer Barbara Broccoli.

Simultaneously, Amy Pascal and David Heyman are set to produce the film through Pascal Pictures and Heyday Films respectively, with Tanya Lapointe taking on the role of executive producer.

Discussing his role in the movie, Steven expressed that it had long been a dream of his, and he was thrilled to have been asked to participate. He’s eagerly looking forward to getting started on the project.

Over the years, as a dedicated Bond fan, I’m confident that these experiences have deeply influenced me, enabling me to create work that maintains the essence of Bond but offers a fresh, improved twist, with increased strength and boldness.

Conversely, Steven did not provide any hints regarding who might take over Daniel Craig’s iconic role instead.

The 57-year-old actor retired from his famous spy character, a role he played in five movies over a span of 15 years, following the release of “No Time To Die” in 2021.

Multiple performers are being considered as potential replacements for him, with notable names such as Taron Egerton, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Paul Mescal, and Theo James being suggested for the role.

When asked about potential candidates for the new Bond, he replied: “That’s indeed an intriguing query, but I’m afraid I can’t provide the solution.

In 2021, the most recent adventure for James Bond was titled “No Time to Die.” Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, and Cary Joji Fukunaga were among those who contributed to its scriptwriting.

Regarding the recent movie production, Steven mentioned that he was unexpectedly called for a meeting with producer Amy Pascal, unaware of the topic. However, his curiosity was piqued almost immediately, and he found himself feeling extremely enthusiastic and optimistic about the project.

In my role as a lifestyle guide, I follow a sequence where I convene discussions, brainstorm concepts, and eventually arrive at the optimal solution – that’s the essence of my approach.

‘So I found out a while ago, but it was announced last night, which is great.’

He mentioned that the job required a lot of pressure, then went on to say: “You simply have to perform your tasks to the best of your ability.

After Taron Egerton addressed rumors about him potentially taking over as James Bond following Daniel Craig’s departure.

Over the past few months, numerous high-profile actors have emerged as potential candidates for the role of James Bond after Amazon acquired the franchise, sparking widespread discussion and anticipation.

In 2019, there were whispers that actor Taron, aged 35, who played Rocketman, might contend for the coveted James Bond role. This speculation was supported by Sir Roger Moore’s son, Geoffrey, who expressed his support for Taron to step into the iconic role.

Yet, Taron appears to have dampened fans’ expectations, stating that he considers himself too disorganized for the role of a smooth and sophisticated secret agent.

‘I don’t think I’m a good choice for it, I think I’m too messy for that,’ he told Collider.

I deeply enjoy the James Bond series, especially Daniel Craig’s time as Bond, yet I don’t believe I possess the skills to excel in that role.

There are so many talented young actors out there who could really shine in this role. I feel like I might not be the best fit, it seems more suitable for them.

Taron himself admitted that assuming the role of Bond is a considerable task, and he emphasized that no one has officially proposed this role to him yet.

Although he didn’t completely dismiss the idea, he suggested he might accept another significant business venture, but he was vague about the specifics of this potential opportunity.

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2025-08-07 04:19