'Vigil' has been named the most-viewed new drama in three years.
Suranne Jones playing Vigil
The BBC has announced that the hard-hitting show starring Suranne Jones as DCI Amy Silva and Martin Compston as Chief Petty Officer Craig Burke, drew an audience of 13.4 million for its first episode.
That's the biggest viewing figures since 2018's 'Bodyguard'.
What's more, 'Vigil', just missed out on being named the most-watched drama of 2021, behind season six of 'Line of Duty', in which Martin starred as Detective Inspector Steve Arnott.
BBC Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore said: "Vigil kept viewers hooked as Suranne Jones took them on a thrilling journey like no other. The series' incredible success is testament to the power of the writing and a brilliant cast and crew."
Simon Heath and Jake Lushington, executive producers for World Productions, makers of 'Vigil', added: "A very big thanks to everyone who tuned in and stayed for the six weeks of Vigil's thrilling voyage through the Atlantic. The show was brought to the screen by a terrific team in Scotland and these huge figures are the result of their brilliant work."
The BBC are already in talks for a second season of 'Vigil'.
A source said recently: “The Beeb knew they had a hit on their hands.
“So they’ve been in discussion for some time with its creators, World Productions, about a potential follow-up.
“Now those plans are likely to progress at speed, with a view to 'Vigil II' being commissioned."
The six-episode saga sees DCI Silva sent to HMS Vigil to investigate the death of a crew member, but there's no guarantee the 'Gentleman Jack' star will return for the second series.
The insider added: “It remains to be seen whether Suranne will return, as 'Vigil’s makers aren’t afraid to kill off a central character.”
Tagged in Suranne Jones Martin Compston