Perdita
10-11-2009, 05:26
STV is to make a new series of its police drama Taggart next year, even if ITV refuse to re-commission it.
The future of the long-running crime show had been in doubt as the ITV network has yet to confirm if it wants to keep showing it across the UK.
STV said the failure to secure a new commission had already cost it £2m.
ITV is currently threatening to sue STV for dropping several major network dramas. STV insists that it is entitled to do this.
'Widespread popularity'
In a statement, STV said: "We remain in discussions with ITV network on securing a commission or co-commission for Taggart.
"In the event that ITV do not re-commission Taggart, we can confirm that STV will make Taggart for delivery in 2010.
"STV recognises the widespread popularity of the programme and the strong ratings and return on investment the series delivers. This will ensure that this popular brand continues."
Taggart first aired in 1983 and starred Mark McManus in the title role until his death in 1994.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/8346550.stm
The future of the long-running crime show had been in doubt as the ITV network has yet to confirm if it wants to keep showing it across the UK.
STV said the failure to secure a new commission had already cost it £2m.
ITV is currently threatening to sue STV for dropping several major network dramas. STV insists that it is entitled to do this.
'Widespread popularity'
In a statement, STV said: "We remain in discussions with ITV network on securing a commission or co-commission for Taggart.
"In the event that ITV do not re-commission Taggart, we can confirm that STV will make Taggart for delivery in 2010.
"STV recognises the widespread popularity of the programme and the strong ratings and return on investment the series delivers. This will ensure that this popular brand continues."
Taggart first aired in 1983 and starred Mark McManus in the title role until his death in 1994.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/8346550.stm