Prepare to be gripped: The critically acclaimed drama Time is returning for a third series, plunging us into the raw and often brutal world of a young offenders' institution. But this time, the stakes are higher, the moral dilemmas are more complex, and the questions it raises about justice and redemption will leave you reeling.
BBC viewers, brace yourselves! Jimmy McGovern, the mastermind behind some of the most hard-hitting and unforgettable dramas on television, is back with a new installment of his BAFTA-winning series, Time. This three-part drama promises to be another unflinching look at the British justice system, this time focusing on the often-overlooked world of young offenders.
Leading the charge are two phenomenal actors: David Tennant (Rivals, Thursday Murder Club) steps into the role of Prison Officer Bailey, a man wrestling with his own demons amidst the chaos of the institution. And Siobhan Finneran (Happy Valley, Out of the Dust) returns as Marie-Louise, the prison chaplain, a character whose faith is tested to its very core by the events that unfold. Get ready to see them both in ways you've never seen before!
The writing team consists of the legendary Jimmy McGovern (Unforgivable, Cracker, The Street) alongside the incredibly talented Samuel Bailey (Shook). This dynamic duo is sure to deliver a script that is both powerful and deeply moving. The series is a BBC Studios Fiction production for BBC iPlayer and BBC One, co-produced by BritBox, and filming is set to take place in Belfast, adding an authentic and gritty backdrop to the story.
At its heart, Time series three will explore the profound impact of incarcerating young people and the immense pressure faced by those responsible for their care. We're talking about the psychological toll, the ethical compromises, and the constant struggle to maintain order in a system often teetering on the brink of collapse.
Here's a glimpse into the characters' journeys: Marie-Louise, the prison chaplain, arrives at the Young Offenders Institution (YOI) grappling with a crisis of faith. When tragedy strikes within the prison walls, her beliefs are put to the ultimate test. This sets her on a collision course with Bailey, the veteran prison officer, who is battling his own personal turmoil. Bailey possesses crucial information about the events leading up to the tragedy, but will he risk everything to reveal the truth? But here's where it gets controversial... Does he have a moral obligation, even if it means jeopardizing his career and perhaps even his freedom?
Meanwhile, we'll also meet Peter and James, two teenage offenders navigating the terrifying realities of their first weeks and months behind bars. James is haunted by an act of violence that has shattered his family, while Peter faces an agonizing choice: protect his family or reveal the truth about the death of an innocent man. And this is the part most people miss... The series will delve into the complex dynamics of loyalty, guilt, and the desperate search for redemption in an environment that seems designed to crush any hope of change.
A glimmer of hope emerges in the form of an unlikely friendship between Peter and James. Can this bond offer them a path towards a better future? Or will the volatile and unforgiving nature of the institution ultimately extinguish any chance of transformation?
Jimmy McGovern himself has expressed his excitement about the new series, stating: “Siobhan Finneran is back! And we've got a wonderful leading man in David Tennant. And a brilliant director in Paul Whittington. I think it's going to be wonderful.”
Andrew Morrissey, Executive Producer for BBC Studios Fiction, echoes this sentiment: “It is a privilege to be making a third series of Time with such a fantastic team. We are excited to introduce the audience to a whole new part of the prison system. Once we started the research, we knew there were stories that demanded to be told.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, emphasizes the series' power to resonate with viewers: “Jimmy McGovern is a master at creating brave, thought-provoking dramas that deeply resonate with BBC viewers, so we are thrilled to be back for a third run of Time. With David Tennant and Siobhan Finneran leading the cast, Samuel Bailey co-writing, Paul Whittington directing and the team at BBC Studios Fiction producing, we are all set for another powerful and memorable piece of work from Jimmy.”
Robert Schildhouse, President, BritBox, highlights the platform's commitment to quality television: “BritBox is committed to delivering great television to our subscribers, and Time is a perfect example of that promise. We’re excited to partner with the BBC on this next chapter of the acclaimed series, featuring David Tennant and Siobhan Finneran in roles we know will be powerful and unforgettable. With Jimmy McGovern and Sam Bailey’s masterful writing and an exceptional cast coming together, this third season will be a must-watch.”
Time series three (3x60’) is a BBC Studios Fiction production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer, co-produced by BritBox for North America with support from Northern Ireland Screen. The series is written by Jimmy McGovern and Samuel Bailey, directed by Paul Whittington (This Town, The Crown) and produced by Amanda Black (Blue Lights, World on Fire). The executive producers are Josh Cole, Andrew Morrissey and Michael Parke for BBC Studios Fiction, Lucy Richer for the BBC, Jon Farrar and Jess O'Riordan for BritBox, and Jimmy McGovern. BBC Studios is handling global sales. Time series one and two are available to stream on BBC iPlayer and BritBox.
So, what do you think? Can a system designed to punish truly rehabilitate young offenders? Is forgiveness possible in the face of unimaginable violence? And what responsibility do we, as a society, bear for the choices these young people make? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let's discuss!
