While Merlin has had a bit of a rocky journey here in the states, it continues to be a success overseas. The fantasy series has just been renewed for a fourth season by the BBC.
Merlin presents a different look at the younger days of the legendary fictional sorcerer. The series stars Colin Morgan, Angel Coulby, Bradley James, Katie McGrath, Anthony Head, Richard Wilson, and John Hurt (as the voice of the dragon).
The fantasy show ran on NBC during the summer of 2009 but was cancelled due to low ratings. Happily for fans, season two surfaced this summer on Syfy, the niche cable channel that’s also owned by NBC-Universal. It performed well enough on Syfy to be renewed for a third season back in August. Season three has begun airing overseas and is expected to begin airing on Syfy in early 2011.
The BBC has now commissioned a fourth season of Merlin. It will be made up of only 10 episodes versus the typical 13 installment order. It’s unknown if this may be an indication that interest in the series is beginning to cool. Filming is due to get underway in Wales and France in March 2011 and episodes are expected to air in 2012.
Of the pick-up, FremantleMedia Enterprises Global CEO David Ellender said, “With Merlin now in 183 countries and a fourth (season) under way, it is a truly global brand.”
Ben Stephenson, the controller of drama commissioning, said, “Merlin continues to perform outstandingly well against The X Factor and offers audiences an alternative treat on Saturday nights.”
There’s no word if Syfy will decide to air the fourth season when it becomes available. That decision will most likely be made after Syfy execs see how season three performs.
What do you think? Are you glad to hear Merlin’s been renewed? Do you want Syfy to air it?
Image courtesy BBC.
Awsomw show please keep it going!
SyFy, please, please keep Merlin next year for season four. Love it! My whole family watches it, including my grandsons. “Merlin” is the best show on TV right now. The show has adventure, action, mystery and humor. I have heard more and more people are watching the show!
We love Merlin!
I absolutely love BBC’s Merlin! The writing is always spot on and i enjoy the way that the show has progressed over the years. I really hope that this series continues for longer than just another 10 episodes in series 4. If more was done to promote it in the States, I am sure it would become more popular as (sadly) not that many people know about it there. There are so very few television shows with such great writing/acting/directing. i truly hope that there will be a 5th series (season) of Merlin and that when the story has reached… Read more »
erkin is fantastic please please lets have some more dont stop its great saturday night show Best on TV at the moment.
Lets have some more
Love this show. Can’t wait for Season Four!!!!
I’m looking forward for the next season of Merlin
Absolutely LOVE Merlin and can’t wait for season 4. Initially I wasn’t sure I’d like the new take on the legend, but the story line and characters are top-notch and have improved with every episode. I surely hope that the program continues for years to come, allowing all of the subplots to develop fully. Very entertaining!
This show started off slightly shaky (IMHO) but never looked back after the first few episodes. There is a definitely chemistry between the characters and actors that is sadly lacking in a lot of productions that last a long time , (for some strange reason). The writers and actors have improved with every episode and they have even added a couple of episodes with some very funny story lines. It would be a shame not to end this series on a good note. A fourth season is most definitely warranted and should not even be a thought in the execs… Read more »
Merlin in fantastic! It is unique unlike any series on today. I hope there are many seasons to come.
I am looking forward to 3 and was thrilled to see the possibility of 4. When there is a good show it should continue.
I just loved this show and was upset when it wasn’t on syfy this year . I will be so happy if it is aired in 2011 like it says it will be. Thank you syfy.
I have been waiting for Merlin to return on Syfy channel. I just love this show!
I’ve been watching Merline since the beginning. I love this show, and can’t imagine not to see the forth season.
I love SyFy it airs some of the most unique shows
Merlin is one that I truly enjoy.
I hope SyFy airs all the seasons including season 4.