Following great reviews from the critics and incredible reactions from the viewing public, Ackley Bridge has been recommissioned at Channel 4 and will be returning for an extended, double-length second series for a split transmission in 2018.
Paul Nicholls stars in the Channel 4 drama
Currently halfway through its first, six-part series 1 run, Ackley Bridge has become a huge success in its 8pm weeknight slot, being the first successful drama to do so on Channel 4 in the same slot for 13 years. Attracting an average consolidated audience of 2.2 million viewers per episode, Ackley Bridge has been significantly out-performing the network’s usual slot average.
The show has also become Channel 4’s highest rated commission for 10-15 years this year, performing well amongst young viewers with a whopping 18.5% share of 16-34 year-olds, and a bigger 22.3% share of 10-15 year-olds.
Head of Channel 4 Drama, Beth Willis comments: “Roll on the next term at Ackley Bridge! Channel 4 is so thrilled to be working again with the brilliant producing and writing team at The Forge and the super talented cast on this funny, thoughtful, incredibly special show. I’m bagging a seat at the front of the class.”
The show’s executive producer, George Ormond added: “We’re over the moon that Ackley Bridge has connected so well with the audience, and our writing team is already brimming with stories for 12 more punchy, funny, surprising episodes.”
Ackley Bridge series 1 continues Wednesday nights at 8pm on Channel 4.