BBC confirm James Graham's Sherwood renewed for season three with 'new set of stories'


It's good news for fans of the BBC show Sherwood as the broadcaster has announced another series is in the works.

Earlier this month, the nail-biting ending of season two saw Daphne Sparrow (Lorraine Ashbourne) determined to get revenge after her husband Mickey (Philip Jackson) was killed.

Trying to flee the country to avoid prison over the murder, Ann Branson (Monica Dolan) was on the run, although not for long as a huge showdown unfolded.

In the end, it resulted in Ann drowning after she was unable to swim from breaking her arm while fighting Daphne.

However, when the credits started to roll it wasn't long before fans speculated this wasn't the last time Sherwood was going to be on screens.

Now, the BBC has confirmed the show has been commissioned for a third series, with James Graham returning to write the popular show.

Sherwood has been commissioned for a third series
Sherwood has been commissioned for a third series -Credit:BBC

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Speaking about the renewal, James said: “It continues to be the greatest privilege to tell stories set in and inspired by the history of my home county of Nottinghamshire.

"Having a returning series on the BBC is pretty much every British writer’s dream, and I’m incredibly grateful for the continued passion that Lindsay, Charlotte and Jo have for Sherwood - and to everyone at House Productions, the most supportive producers you can have."

However, the writer shared his biggest appreciation is for the audiences who watch his creation.

The first episode of series 2 had over 6.5 million viewers
The first episode of series 2 had over 6.5 million viewers -Credit:BBC

He added: "I’m determined to deliver for them in a series three, which will be a new set of stories, and the continuation – and completion – of some strands I’ve been dreaming of for some time.”

The second series of Sherwood was inspired by the so-called ‘Shottingham’ gang wars within the Nottinghamshire community, where James Graham grew up.

Following a big fanbase when it was first released in 2022 the first episode of season two was watched by more than 6.5 million viewers.

Viewers speculated another series was on the way after the second season came to an end
Viewers speculated another series was on the way after the second season came to an end -Credit:BBC

Echoing James' excitement over another season, Lindsay Salt, the Director of BBC Drama added: “Sherwood has quickly established itself as one of the all-time great television dramas, with its impeccable mix of characters, story and themes that have gripped and resonated with millions of viewers across the UK.

"We’re so pleased to be working with James Graham and the team to bring his exciting plans for Sherwood’s third chapter to the BBC.”

Along with writing Sherwood series three, James will once again be an executive producer alongside Juliette Howell, Tessa Ross and Harriet Spencer for House Productions and Jo McClellan for the BBC.

It's not yet known who if any, cast members will be returning from the previews seasons.

Sherwood is available to watch on BBC iPlayer