Life on Mars creator teases hopes for another sequel series as BBC deny plans for a Gene Hunt return

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Fans of the British sci-fi shows Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes were thrilled in 2020 to learn that a sequel series was being developed.

The planned show, titled Lazarus, would have brought back Philip Glenister and John Simm to their familiar roles. However, it was cancelled in 2023 due to financial concerns, as explained by co-creator Matthew Graham.

Ashley Pharoah, one of the creators of Life on Mars, has hinted that the show might return. He told The Sun that while he can’t reveal any details, plans are underway and the story isn’t finished yet.

We were surprised no one else seemed interested in continuing Lazarus – the audience clearly wanted more. We’d originally intended to create three seasons, but it was cut short to just two. I recall the BBC had some concerns about it at the time.

Despite the rumors, fans shouldn’t get their hopes up. The BBC confirmed to The Sun that there are currently no plans to bring back “Life on Mars”.

Pharoah’s comment might suggest the show could come back in a different way, like a spin-off or on a new streaming service. We’ll just have to wait to find out for sure.

Life on Mars was created by Pharoah, Graham, and Tony Jordan. This unique show blended science fiction with historical crime drama and aired for two seasons from 2006 to 2007.

The show continued with three more seasons, called Ashes to Ashes, from 2008 to 2010. This time, Keeley Hawes played the lead role of Alex Drake, replacing John Simm’s character, Sam Tyler.

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Graham announced the cancellation of the “Lazarus” follow-up on X (formerly Twitter) in 2023, explaining that despite months of planning, financial issues—not creative ones—led to the decision. He expressed disappointment for everyone involved, including himself and Ashley Pharoah. He described the show as a brilliant and timely concept with fresh insights into the relationship between the public and the police, and praised its humor. Ultimately, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. He asked fans not to inquire about the decision or the future of the characters, but instead to remember the show fondly with a drink to ‘The Guv’.

Authors

James HibbsDrama Writer

James Hibbs writes about TV dramas for TopMob, covering shows on streaming services and traditional channels. Before becoming a writer, he worked in public relations, first at a business-to-business agency and then at Fremantle, an international television production company. He has a BA degree in English and Theatre Studies, and a Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

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2026-01-14 14:36