Japanese Broadcaster WOWOW Acquires U.K. Detective Series ‘Bergerac’
Wowow, a premium pay-TV network in Japan, has recently acquired the U.K. detective drama “Bergerac,” a modern adaptation of the 1980s BBC series. The six-part series, produced by BlackLight TV and Westward Studios, is set to premiere in Japan on Wowow Prime and Wowow On Demand in August 2025. The deal was facilitated by Rashmi Bajpai, EVP Sales Asia at Banijay Rights.
Starring Damien Molony as Jim Bergerac, the series made its debut in the U.K. on U and U&Drama earlier this year and has already been renewed for a second season due to its strong performance. Bajpai expressed excitement about the series, stating, “With its superb cast and engrossing storytelling, this enthralling new version of ‘Bergerac’ is clearly proving to be a hit with broadcasters across the world. Wowow is the perfect home in Japan for this iconic series.”
Inspired by the original BBC show, the updated version of “Bergerac” features a single, character-driven mystery arc across all six episodes, a departure from the standalone serialized format of its predecessor. The series boasts a talented team of writers including Toby Whithouse, Brian Fillis, Catherine Tregenna, and Polly Buckle. The cast also includes Zoë Wanamaker, Philip Glenister, and introduces Chloé Sweet Love as Jim Bergerac’s daughter, Kim.
Rie Izumi from Wowow’s International Acquisition team expressed her honor in presenting this production to the Japanese audience, anticipating that viewers will be captivated by the story and cast. Joint Managing Directors at BlackLight TV, Ben Bickerton and Phil Trethowan, shared their delight in the series finding a new audience globally, confident in its universal appeal.
“Bergerac” has already been sold to various international broadcasters, including NPO, VRT, SVT, YLE, NRK, DR, BBC First, TVNZ, and ABC. The widespread interest in the series reflects its potential to captivate audiences worldwide with its intriguing storyline and compelling characters.
