The BBC has announced that hit drama Ten Pound Poms will return for a second series, with Michelle Keegan, Faye Marsay and Warren Brown all set to reprise their roles. The show, written and created by BAFTA award-winning Danny Brocklehurst, is made by Eleven for BBC One and iPlayer, in a co-production with Stan.
Series one of Ten Pound Poms was one of the UK’s biggest new dramas of last year, launching to a 28-day figure of 7.7 million viewers. It followed a group of Brits leaving post-war Britain to start a new life in Australia. The new series will follow nurse Kate Thorne and the Roberts family into 1957 as they continue their adventure down under.
Series two will introduce new characters, including the Skinner family from Ireland and the unscrupulous landlord Benny Bates. Returning cast members include Rob Collins, Leon Ford, Declan Coyle, Stephen Curry, Hattie Hook, Finn Treacy, Emma Hamilton and Cheree Cassidy.
Writer and executive producer Danny Brocklehurst said: “The positive viewer response to Ten Pound Poms was a true delight. We tapped into a little-known part of our recent history and told stories which reflected the realities of the real Poms that made the trip.” Executive producer Joel Wilson added: “I fell in love with Australia last season, so I’m delighted to be heading back there.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: “We’re delighted to take BBC viewers back to Australia for more sunshine with Ten Pound Poms series two.” Stan Chief Content Officer Cailah Scobie commented: “We look forward to partnering with BBC and Eleven and the incredible creatives who produced an outstanding and compelling first season.”
Series one of Ten Pound Poms won two Golden Nymphs at the 62nd Annual Monte Carlo Television Festival for Best Series and Best Actor for Warren Brown. The second series will be directed by Ana Kokkinos and Tom McKay.
