Peter Hoar, the Emmy-nominated director known for his work on “The Last of Us,” is set to helm a reboot of the cult British sci-fi drama “Blake’s 7.” This exciting development was reported by Hollywood trade publication Deadline, revealing that Hoar has launched a new production company, Multitude Productions, alongside executive producer Matthew Bouch and West End producer Jason Haigh-Ellery. Together, they have acquired the rights to several intellectual properties, including the iconic “Blake’s 7,” which originally aired on BBC One 45 years ago.
The announcement comes as Hoar plans to direct the reboot, which will soon be pitched to potential buyers. Bouch has expressed a desire for the series to return to the BBC, while also considering co-funding opportunities with American streaming platforms and European networks. This strategic move aligns with the current landscape of high-end scripted television, where budgets are tightening and long-running genre series face challenges in maintaining momentum.
The Legacy of “Blake’s 7”
Set in deep space in the far future, “Blake’s 7” first captivated audiences in January 1978. Created by Terry Nation, a prolific British television scriptwriter credited with introducing the Daleks to “Doctor Who,” the show followed a band of resistance fighters led by Roj Blake, portrayed by Gareth Thomas. Blake, after escaping incarceration, leads a rebellion against the oppressive Terran Federation, recruiting a diverse group of allies along the way.
Among these allies were characters such as Kerr Avon, played by Paul Darrow, and Vila Restal, portrayed by Michael Keating. The ensemble cast also included Sally Knyvette as Jenna Stannis, David Jackson as Olag Gan, Jan Chappell as Cally, and the ship’s sentient computer Zen, voiced by Peter Tuddenham. Over four seasons and 52 episodes, the series explored themes of resistance, loyalty, and sacrifice, with characters evolving and facing numerous challenges.
A Cult Classic with Enduring Appeal
Despite its modest budget, “Blake’s 7” achieved a lasting impact, thanks in part to its compelling storytelling and the Shakespearean gravitas brought by actors like Darrow. The dynamic between Avon and his nemesis, Servalan, played by Jacqueline Pearce, provided a captivating tension that became a highlight of the series. The show also served as a launching pad for the careers of actors such as Josette Simon and Glynis Barber.
According to Deadline, Hoar draws parallels between “Blake’s 7” and recent sci-fi successes like “Andor,” noting that the latter’s acclaim stems not from its high production budget but from its integrity, wit, and sophistication. Hoar also referenced “Doctor Who” as a cautionary tale, highlighting Disney+’s recent exit from a major co-production deal after just two seasons.
Reviving a Sci-Fi Gem
Bouch and Hoar, both seasoned veterans of the British television industry, are eager to bring “Blake’s 7” back to life. They aim to blend the show’s British low-budget sensibility with international market appeal, recognizing the need for economical production strategies amidst a contracting U.S. market. The duo is also advocating for a multi-writer model to reinvigorate the creative process and support writers in the industry.
Over the years, “Blake’s 7” has maintained a dedicated fanbase, with rumors of a reboot circulating for some time. The show’s expanded universe, though fragmented, includes novels, audio dramas, and a serialized comic that ran during its initial seasons. This rich legacy provides a fertile ground for the reboot to explore new narratives while honoring the original’s spirit.
As Hoar and his team prepare to bring “Blake’s 7” to a new generation of viewers, the series’ themes of resistance and camaraderie remain as relevant as ever. The reboot promises to capture the essence of the original while offering fresh perspectives and stories for contemporary audiences.
