Blake’s 7, the iconic BBC show created by Terry Nation which ran between 1978 and 1981 has been picked up by FremantleMedia International to remade in the U.S.
The original show followed Roj Blake (Gareth Thomas); classed as a political dissident he was arrested and tried on false charges thus being deported from Earth. Along with a group of other criminals they manage to overpower the prison ship and steal an alien starship called, “Liberator”. From here they become a very odd crew of freedom fighters against the totalitarian government that tried to imprison them. The show was known for not following the normal TV rules of heroes – main characters were killed like Gan (David Jackson), crew members like Avon (Paul Darrow) couldn’t be trusted, and others like Vila (Michael Keating) could act unheroic and flee from the scene.
This new Blake’s 7 will consist of 13 hour long shows. It is being written by Joe Pokaski (Heroes) and Martin Campbell (GoldenEye, Casino Royale) has been lined up to direct. The remake will be shown on the SyFy channel. At this time no casting details have been released. Here’s the official series description:
“A revolutionary reinvention of the long-running BBC series made in the late 1970s, Blake’s 7 tells the story of seven criminals – 6 guilty and 1 innocent – on their way to life on a prison colony in space, who together wrestle freedom from imprisonment. They acquire an alien ship which gives them a second chance at life and become the most unlikely heroes of their time.”
David Ellender, CEO of FremantleMedia International, said, “Blake’s 7 was such a forward-thinking concept that the show continues to have resonance with audiences today. Its complex characters and gritty storylines, coupled with the highly talented team and modern production techniques are sure to appeal to both original fans of the show and new viewers.”
Originally published April 10, 2013. Updated April 11, 2018.
