Emmy-nominated director Peter Hoar, known for his work on “The Last of Us,” is spearheading a reboot of the iconic British science fiction series “Blake’s 7.” The project marks the launch of Hoar’s new independent production studio, Multitude Productions, alongside executive producer Matthew Bouch and West End producer Jason Haigh-Ellery.
The Reboot’s Genesis
Hoar, Bouch, and Haigh-Ellery have secured the rights to “Blake’s 7,” which originally aired on BBC One in 1978. The reboot is already being pitched to broadcasters and streamers, with a preference for a BBC return but an open approach to co-funding from U.S. and European platforms. This move comes as high-end television budgets tighten, prompting a shift towards more economically viable production models.
Hoar acknowledges the show’s humble origins: “The ‘Blake’s 7’ story is legendary because they were given the [70s UK police show] ‘Softly, Softly’ slot that was intended for police drama with a budget intended for one big set and a few location shoots.” He recalls the show’s charm despite its limitations, adding that the sets wobbled but the ride was still enjoyable.
The Original Series: A Darker Take on Sci-Fi
“Blake’s 7” debuted in January 1978, created by Terry Nation—the mind behind the Daleks in “Dr. Who.” The series distinguished itself with a gritty, morally ambiguous approach to science fiction, diverging from more optimistic contemporaries like “Space: 1999.” It followed Roj Blake, a rebel escaping imprisonment, and his crew of outlaws aboard a stolen alien starship, the Liberator.
The original cast included Gareth Thomas as Blake, Paul Darrow as Kerr Avon, and a rotating ensemble who faced constant betrayal and loss over four seasons. The show’s blend of Shakespearean tragedy and space opera, particularly the dynamic between Avon and his nemesis Servalan, earned a dedicated cult following.
Why Now? The Shift in Sci-Fi Production
Hoar draws a comparison to the success of “Andor,” noting its impact stems not from extravagant budgets but from strong storytelling. He views Disney+’s departure from “Dr. Who” as a cautionary tale, underscoring the need for sustainable production models. The team aims to merge British genre sensibilities with international markets, recognizing the contraction in U.S. entertainment spending.
Bouch explained that the current market is perfect for a reboot, adding, “We look back at when we were young with a degree of nostalgia, but also thinking about the 70s and 80s as we were growing up and the amount of genre material that was available … We are looking to the international market and seeing if there is a way of dovetailing that British low-budget sensibility with international markets.”
The Legacy of ‘Blake’s 7’
The original series launched the careers of several actors, including Josette Simon and Glynis Barber, who went on to star in major franchises like “Wonder Woman” and “Halo.” Despite numerous reboot rumors over the years, the expanded universe—including novels, audio dramas, and comics—testifies to the show’s enduring appeal.
The revival of “Blake’s 7” marks a strategic move by Multitude Productions to capitalize on both nostalgia and the evolving landscape of science fiction television. The project underscores a growing trend in the industry: prioritizing creative integrity and financial prudence over unchecked spending.
