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Bergerac was a popular British television show, first aired on BBC One on October 18, 1981. The series followed the life of Detective Jim Bergerac, played by John Nettles, as he fought crime on the island of Jersey. The show, which ran for ten seasons, from 1981 to 1991, was produced by the BBC and featured a star-studded cast including Terence Alexander, Sean Arnold, and Louise Jameson. With its picturesque setting, gripping storylines, and iconic cast, Bergerac became a mainstay of British television, cementing its place in pop culture history.

The show was set on the island of Jersey, a British Crown dependency located off the coast of Normandy, France. Jersey is home to gorgeous beaches, scenic countryside, and charming towns, making it the perfect backdrop for the show's action. The series follows Jim Bergerac, a former soldier turned detective, as he solves crimes around the island. Bergerac works for the Bureau des Étrangers, a detective agency that investigates crimes involving foreigners on the island. Jim, who is grappling with alcoholism and a failed marriage, finds his work a welcome distraction from his personal life.

Throughout the series, Bergerac solves a variety of crimes, from murders to fraud to drug trafficking. With the support of his colleagues, Charlie Hungerford (Terence Alexander), a local entrepreneur, and Barney Crozier (Sean Arnold), his boss at the bureau, Jim navigates the complex underbelly of life on the island. The show also features a cast of recurring characters, including Jim's ex-wife, Susan (Louise Jameson), and his love interest, Francine (Cécile Paoli).

One of the most appealing things about Bergerac is its blend of crime drama and comedy. The show often juxtaposes intense, high-stakes cases with lighter moments, like Charlie's schemes to win back his wealth or Jim's run-ins with local restauranteur, Philippa (Lindsay Heath). Bergerac also explores the rich history and culture of the island, incorporating local customs and traditions into the show. The series often features outdoor shots of the island's stunning scenery, making it a treat for viewers interested in travel and adventure.

John Nettles' portrayal of Jim Bergerac is one of the show's main draws. Nettles brings a compelling mix of toughness and vulnerability to the role, making Jim a relatable and sympathetic character. We see Jim struggle with addiction, depression, and the fallout from his divorce, which makes his victories all the more satisfying. Nettles is supported by a talented cast, including Terence Alexander, who steals the show as Charlie Hungerford. Hungerford is a shrewd businessman with a heart of gold, and Alexander's performance is both understated and hilarious.

Bergerac was a huge hit when it aired, drawing in audiences with its mix of gritty crime drama, light-hearted comedy, and breathtaking scenery. The show's popularity can be attributed in large part to its relatable characters and engrossing storylines. The show manages to strike a balance between the serious and the humorous, and the result is a series that feels engaging and authentic. Bergerac also explores themes that were ahead of its time, such as addiction, mental health, and the struggles of everyday people.

In conclusion, Bergerac was a beloved British television series that aired from 1981 to 1991 on BBC One. The show followed the life of Jim Bergerac, a detective working on the island of Jersey, as he solved crimes and navigated his personal life. The show's juxtaposition of gritty crime drama with light-hearted comedy, stunning scenery, and iconic performances from Nettles, Alexander, Arnold, and Jameson made it a must-watch series for audiences across the UK. Bergerac is a timeless classic that remains popular with audiences to this day.

Bergerac is a series that is currently running and has 9 seasons (86 episodes). The series first aired on October 18, 1981.