BBC Confirms This City Is Ours Season 3
The BBC has officially commissioned a third season of its Liverpool-set crime drama This City Is Ours, just as the second season premiered on BBC One. The announcement comes ahead of the season two launch on Sunday, 25 October at 9pm, with episodes airing weekly on Sundays and Mondays until 16 November. All eight episodes of season two are already available on BBC iPlayer.
Creator, lead writer, and executive producer Stephen Butchard expressed his enthusiasm: “Following the quite breathtaking response to series one, myself, the cast and our wonderful crew were all determined not to drop the ball and endeavour to deliver an even better series two! No spoilers, but I’m hoping this fantastic early commission from the BBC for a third series is an indication that we may have come close to doing just that.”
While specific plot details for season three remain under wraps, filming is confirmed to take place primarily in Liverpool in 2027, suggesting a potential air date later that year or in 2028. The third season will likely continue the story of the Phelan family and their criminal empire, following the events of season two.
Season 2 Premiere and Plot
Season two picks up with Michael Kavanagh (James Nelson-Joyce) and Diana Williams (Hannah Onslow) attempting to leave their old life behind in Spain. However, they are quickly pulled back to Liverpool to answer questions about Ricardo’s death. Back in the city, tensions rise among the remaining gang members, and an old-school gangster from Ronnie’s era, recently released from prison, demands compensation from the firm. The season promises to test Michael and Diana’s relationship while introducing new threats.
Context: A Growing Franchise
The early renewal signals strong confidence from the BBC in the series, which has become a notable entry in the UK crime drama landscape. This City Is Ours has garnered attention not only for its gripping narrative but also for its extensive use of real Liverpool locations, boosting local tourism. The show’s production filmed across both Liverpool and Spain (Málaga and Marbella) for season two, showcasing iconic spots like The White Hart Pub on Hope Street, Sefton Park, and the Museum of Liverpool. The Phelan family home is filmed at a private house in Caldy, Wirral, which is not open to the public.
James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Michael, praised the city’s welcome: “The city, now that they’ve seen the series, welcomed us with open arms and they’re proud of the show. There’s been a lot of people from across the world reaching out asking, ‘where is this location?’ or ‘where is that restaurant?’ It’s a great opportunity for us to show the city, and everything it can offer, to even more to the world.”
Season two also introduces new character Felipe, played by Money Heist’s Álvaro Morte, who resides in a real Marbella villa available for rent at around £75,000 per week. The international scope of the production adds to its appeal, with the Spanish scenes filmed on location in Costa del Sol.
Perspective: What Season 3 Means for Fans and the Industry
The confirmation of season three before season two has even aired is a testament to the show’s success and the BBC’s commitment to long-term storytelling. In an era where streaming platforms often cancel shows after one season, this early renewal provides stability for the cast and crew and ensures that fans can invest in the narrative without fear of abrupt cancellation.
Moreover, the continued investment in Liverpool as a production hub highlights the growing trend of regionally focused dramas that authentically represent their settings. This City Is Ours joins a lineup of successful BBC crime series that leverage local talent and locations, contributing to the UK’s thriving screen industry. As filming for season three is set to begin in 2027, anticipation is already building for what promises to be another intense chapter in the Phelan family saga.
For now, viewers can enjoy season two on BBC One and iPlayer, with the full series available for binge-watching. The show’s ability to balance gritty crime drama with character-driven storytelling has cemented its place in the hearts of audiences, and the early season three commission ensures that the story is far from over.
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