BBC One confirms second series of 'Sherwood' is on the way

Hit BBC One drama Sherwood has been renewed for a second season.

The series which had an all-star cast including David Morrissey, Lesley Manville, Alun Armstrong, Joanne Froggatt, Adeel Akhtar and Robert Glenister drew to a close on Tuesday to rave reviews from critics and viewers.

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Now it has been confirmed that there will be more Sherwood to look forward to, with filming on a second series due to begin in 2023 - although it isn't yet known whether any of the cast will return.

Writer James Graham drew inspiration from a real-life manhunt in Sherwood Forest for two separate killers, but also featured the theme of the ongoing tensions in his hometown decades after the miners' strike divided the community.

According to the BBC, his follow-up Sherwood series will "continue the themes of examining the lives and legacy of those governed by Britain’s industrial past with stories from communities of the 'red wall' towns, the controversial deployment of so-called ‘spycops’ and how seismic ripples from the past can come back to haunt the present."

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Graham said: “I’ve been so deeply moved by the response to Sherwood. These stories come from my home, and I want to specifically express gratitude to my community for whom I know these subjects can be difficult, but - I hope - important ones to explore.

"The East Midlands and former 'red wall' areas like it are never just one thing - politically or culturally - and it’s been the honour of my life to give voice and character to a place I love. It’s a county of great stories and legends, past and present, and I can’t wait to show audiences more."

Acting director of BBC Drama Ben Irving added: “We are thrilled that James Graham and the team at House (production company) have agreed to return to the world of Sherwood a second time. This series has been met with an incredible reaction from audiences on the BBC thanks to the amazing work of all involved."

Further casting information will be announced later.

Watch: See the trailer for Sherwood