TV Shows

'Time' season 2: As viewers demand to know what happens next in the 'utterly magnificent' BBC prison drama, here's what we know about a potential second series

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This article contains Time spoilers

If you've watched BBC One's new utterly gripping prison drama Time, the chances are you haven't quite recovered from the experience. Was it the most intense TV show of 2021 since Line of Duty? Yes. Do we need a second series? Also yes.

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As well as being praised for its realistic depiction of prison life, Time has also highlighted two of the greatest actors of our time: Sean Bean and Stephen Graham, who play Mark Cobden, an ex-headteacher jailed for drink-driving, and Eric McNally, a prison officer who becomes increasingly desperate to protect his son.

Although the three-part drama, written by Jimmy McGovern, finished on 20 June, fans are already asking questions about a potential second series.

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What could a second series of Time be about?

The first series of Time saw Mark Cobden (Sean Bean) and Eric McNally (Stephen Graham) experience a reversal in fortunes. While Mark is released early, after being saved from a terrifying attack by an inmate he had previously taught to read, Eric finds himself facing a four-year sentence for his role in a smuggling plot.

We'd love to see a second series explore Eric's time in prison as an ex-prison guard. Although personally, I'm secretly hoping Mark gets to keep his happy(ish) ending.

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When could a second series of Time be released?

Yes, we know that BBC One haven't confirmed (or denied!) a second series. And while Time may have initially been billed as limited series, we're hoping it's enormously positive reception prompts another series (or two) in the future, Line of Duty-style.

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Where can I watch Time?

All three episodes of Time are available to stream now on BBC iPlayer, and you can watch the trailer below. Just be prepared for a seriously dramatic ride.