Apparitions Axed

A tabloid story claims that dark BBC series Apparitions, which starred Martin Shaw, has been axed. Updated: 23/02.09: BBC confirm the series has been axed.

The Mirror claims that dark supernatural series Apparitions has been axed by the BBC due to disappointing ratings. The dark and creepy series starred Martin Shaw as Father Jacob who regularly performed exorcisms as he battled with the devil – the series featured several graphic scenes including one where someone was skinned alive. The series started well with 4.5 million viewers but quickly lost ground in the ratings and ended its run with 3 million viewers – although figures had recovered somewhat across its run.

A BBC spokesperson confirmed to ATV News that the series had indeed been dropped. “Inspite of a great cast and production team, Apparitions did not find its audience in the way that we had hoped. We remain very proud of it but it will not be returning for another series.”

The supernatural series was produced by Lime Pictures, makers of Hollyoaks, and was based on an idea by lead star Martin Shaw. It was written by Joe Ahearne who created acclaimed C4 vampire series Ultraviolet.