Vigil starring Suranne Jones and Martin Compston was the most-watched drama in three years since Bodyguard

Virgin Radio

6 Oct 2021, 13:42

Who didn't watch Vigil? Apparently, very few. The BBC has announced that the tense HMS drama with Suranne Jones as DCI Amy Silva and Martin Compston as Chief Petty Officer Craig Burke bagged an impressive audience of 13.4 million for the first episode.

The traumatic six-part series narrowly missed out on being awarded the title of the 'most-watched drama of 2021' falling behind season six of Line of Duty, of course, also starring screen magnate Martin as DI 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."

Executive producers Simon Heath and Jake Lushington 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."

According to a source, the BBC are in talks for a second season. An insider said: "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.

“It remains to be seen whether Suranne will return, as Vigil's makers aren’t afraid to kill off a central character.”