Suranne Jones issues statement as her BBC show is axed…

Suranne Jones issues statement as her BBC show is axed leaving fans 'devastated'

Suranne Jones has issued a passionate statement as the news that her BBC show has been axed was confirmed. It has been announced that Gentleman Jack will not be renewed for a third season by HBO.

The former Coronation Street star played Anne Lister in the period drama which was based on the real-life diaries of landowner Anne, documenting her relationships with women. This included her marriage to Ann Walker, played by Sophie Rundle, which is believed to be Britain's first known lesbian wedding.

Confirming the show will not be renewed, the network told Deadline : "HBO will not be moving forward with a third season of Gentleman Jack When we began this journey more than five years ago, we knew the series' creator Sally Wainwright had a uniquely compelling vision.

"It's been tremendously gratifying to see how Anne Lister's journey has resonated with viewers." The statement continued: "We are incredibly grateful to Sally, to the impeccable Suranne Jones and Sophie Rundle, and to the entire cast and crew for bringing Anne and Ann's story to life. We'd also like to thank our partners at BBC and Lookout Point for their collaboration on two remarkable seasons."

Suranne, who also starred in the likes of BBC's Vigil and Doctor Foster as well as ITV's Scott and Bailey, confirmed the news in a social media post. The Chadderton-born star wrote on Instagram: "I just wanted to take a moment to reflect on our beautiful journey making this show. While it is sad news Gentleman Jack will not be renewed, this show has brought so many together.

"It has enabled people to share their stories, brought joy, emotion and creativity and gave me a real connection to you as it’s audience. Anne Lister now has a statue in the Piece Hall. There is a Blue plaque in Holy Trinity church yard celebrating Anne and Ann’s union in 1834. There is a college named after Anne Lister on the east campus at the University of York.

Suranne as Anne Lister in Gentleman Jack (BBC/Lookout Point/HBO/Aimee Spinks)

"Shibden now has more visitors than ever before and you will find Anne Lister walks, tours and trails galore when visiting Halifax and it’s surrounding areas. 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."

She concluded her post: "THANK YOU for all your support. Thank you to Sally Wainwright for bringing us this amazing story and passion. Thank you to @lindaviemakeup and @tompye33 for the stunning work over both seasons and to our design team who blew me away on set everyday.

"To our cast and crew who are just so talented and beautiful and finally I love you @sophiesophierundle." She added: "You are a true friend and a total star. Love Suranne."

Sophie Rundle also starred in the period drama as Ann Walker (BBC/Lookout Point/HBO/Aimee Spinks)

She shared the message alongside a clip from the BBC full of bloopers from the most recent series. Season two of the show only ended last month and brought in millions of viewers. However, this was believed to be half of the five to six million season one of the drama garnered.

And it's fair to say fans were gutted. Replying to Suranne's post, @karen_ann_1965 said: "Devastated. How can it be left like this? I work at Shibden and every visitor asked if GJ would be returning….. Thank you so much for bringing Anne to us. Everyone involved have given their all."

@gemruffers wrote: "I’m heartbroken! But Thankyou for telling the amazing and inspiring story of Anne Lister! Nobody could have done it better than you and Sophie, Suranne!" @tranquilla1 commented: "Not fair! But thank you for two amazing seasons. Like everything you act in, it was wonderful."

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