The creator of Gentlemen Jack has revealed the BBC require a new streaming partner to continue the show, following HBO's cancellation of the period drama.
First aired in 2019 and set in 1832, Gentlemen Jack is inspired by the true story of diarist and trailblazer Anne Lister. It was recently revealed that the show would not be returning for a third series. But while Gentlemen Jack was a co-production between the BBC and HBO creator Sally Wainwright confirmed in an interview with the Radio Times that the BBC are "certainly up for" continuing with the show, if a new streaming partner was acquired.
Read more: Gentleman Jack fans heap praise on Suranne Jones for 'captivating' portrayal of Anne Lister
Wainwright, who is also the creator of BBC hit, Happy Valley which is returning for a third series in the near future, told the website: "Well, I think we all are [gutted]. It's been a bit of a surprise really because it's been doing really well, certainly in this country. We were ready to go again, the BBC certainly [is] up for going again."
She continued: "I think if HBO had been up for it, there'd have been no question. It's been a very successful show in all areas for them – it's had fantastic reviews, it's had a very respectable audience and on top of that it's had an impact on the community of gay women. We have the most extraordinary fanbase, they organise all sorts of events."
The writer was asked whether the BBC would consider continuing the show alone, and said: "I think [it] wouldn't want to continue with it without it having the same production values. So we would need to find another partner who would stream it globally. You know, I think all those other options are being explored at the minute given that there is a desire to go on with it amongst quite a lot of people – the BBC, Lookout Point, myself, you know."
Last week, Suranne Jones, who plays Anne Lister in the show, released a lengthy statement, saying how much the show meant to her. "While it is sad news Gentleman Jack will not be renewed, this show has brought so many together, enabled people to share their stories, brought joy, emotion and creativity and gave me a real connection to you as its audience.
"I have never been involved in a show that has made such a huge impact and touched my heart like this one has. It wasn’t always the easiest job I’ve had… but it was always worth it to see the response it got. THANK YOU for all your support. Thank you to Sally Wainwright for bringing us this amazing story and passion."
A spokesperson for the BBC, following the cancellation of the show, said: "We are tremendously proud of Gentleman Jack, a show which has made a huge cultural impact, and we are in discussions with Sally about what’s next."
Gentlemen Jack is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
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