SAS Rogue Heroes has had its future confirmed, with the BBC renewing the historical drama for a second series.
With the sixth and final episode of the first series airing tonight (December 4), fans were left wondering if the origin story of the British Army Special Air Service would come back to screens, but its future was solidified with a "to be continued" caption in the finale.
Related: Peaky Blinders boss' new show SAS Rogue Heroes reveals trailer
Creator Steven Knight, who has BBC pedigree with shows including Peaky Blinders and Taboo, celebrated the announcement of a second series, saying: "After the roaring success of Rogue Heroes I'm delighted to be embarking on the next chapter of the story."
He further revealed that the next batch of episodes would take place in mainland Europe, focusing on the SAS as they test the "limits of their endurance".
The series, which debuted to critical acclaim, stars Sex Education's Connor Swindells as David Stirling, who develops the idea of a special commando unit following a failed training exercise.
The cast also includes Jack O'Connell, Sofia Boutella, Tom Glynn-Carney, Theo Barklem-Biggs, Dominic West and Alfie Allen.
Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, also welcomed the news by paying tribute to Knight, saying: "The fantastic response and huge iPlayer figures for SAS Rogue Heroes is a testament to Steven Knight's incredible skill for turning our history into modern, must-see TV.
"BBC viewers have really taken this series to their hearts, and we're delighted to be working with Steven and Kudos to bring the Rogue Heroes' exciting next chapter to life."
Related: The Crown's Dominic West reveals what surprised him most about playing Charles
Karen Wilson – executive producer and joint managing director of Kudos Studios, which makes the show for the BBC – added: "We've been blown away by the reaction to the first series and are so pleased to be bringing our SAS Rogue Heroes back for more.
"Steven's incredible storytelling has captivated audiences and there is so much more story to tell – I can't wait for audiences to see what's in store."
SAS Rogue Heroes opened to an audience of 9.4 million for its first episode, which makes it the third biggest new drama launch of the year for the BBC behind The Tourist and The Responder – both of which have also been renewed for a second series.
SAS Rogue Heroes is available to watch on BBC iPlayer. The second series will begin filming in 2023.
Best Entertainment and Tech Deals
Coronation Street X Joanie - Gilroy Retro Newton And Ridley Sweatshirt
Reporter, Digital Spy George is a freelance writer who specialises in Movies and TV. After graduating with a degree in Film Studies and Journalism from De Montfort University, in which he analysed the early works of Richard Linklater for his dissertation, he wrote for several websites for GRV Media. His film tastes vary from blockbusters like Mission: Impossible and John Wick to international directors such as Paolo Sorrentino and Hirokazu Kore-eda, and has attended both the London and Berlin film festivals.
