Classic BBC drama Lovejoy set for modern TV reboot
The show is returning after 30 years!
Lovejoy is making a comeback! The much-loved TV rogue, who became famous in the BBC One drama originally led by Ian McShane, is reportedly being lined up for a modern TV reboot based on Jonathan Gash’s original novels.
The new version aims to reintroduce the antiques 'divvy' to a fresh audience while giving long-time fans a nostalgic hit.
According to Deadline, See-Saw Films wants to create a "contemporary reimagining of the Lovejoy novels that will strip away the nostalgia of the 1980s adaptation and return to the unrulier spirit of the books", the production company said.
Behind the scenes, a new creative team is steering the revival, working with author John Grant (aka Jonathan Gash) and his representatives to bring the character back to screens.
The author's agent Lisa Moylett told Deadline: "Jonathan Gash created an extraordinarily vivid and complex Lovejoy. A morally ambiguous, often unpleasant anti-hero brought to life through taut prose and page-turning stories steeped in the shadowy world of antiques." She added: "It was essential that any new adaptation kept the books front and centre. See-Saw’s bold, assured vision, led by Lisa Gilchrist and Helen Gregory, demonstrated exactly how to preserve the books’ wit and grit while reimagining them for today’s audience."
How was the reboot announced?
Deadline first broke the news on 4th March 2026 - noting that the makers who made Slow Horses' Jackson Lamb a 'household name' with its 2022 reboot - is seeking to do the same for the antiques dealer.
What was the original Lovejoy about?
Lovejoy followed roguish antiques dealer (Ian McShane) wheeling and dealing his way around East Anglia.
Known as a 'divvy' for his almost supernatural instinct for spotting genuine treasures among tat, he drifted through cons, dodgy deals and the odd murder mystery, usually just about keeping ahead of villains, the police and the taxman.
Across six series and 71 episodes, Lovejoy was rarely alone, backed up by his wonderfully shambolic crew including, loyal fixer Tinker Dill, hapless sidekick Eric Catchpole and classy friend Lady Jane Felsham.
The blend of gentle crime capers, romance, humour and regular asides to camera gave the show a relaxed Sunday-afternoon feel that still resonates with fans catching repeats today.
Who was in the cast?
Ian McShane lead the series as Lovejoy, while Dudley Sutton played Tinker Dill; Chris Jury appeared as Eric Catchpole; Phyllis Logan played Lady Jane Felsham; and Malcolm Tierney played Charlie Gimbert.
When did it first air?
Lovejoy first hit our screens in January 1986, with the pilot titled The Firefly Cage, airing on BBC One alongside the first run of ten episodes. It set up the antiques world, Lovejoy’s dodgy contacts and his talent for trouble.
The original series aired on BBC One throughout its entire run from 1986 to 1994.
Who is cast in the reboot?
The project is still in early development, so there’s no casting news yet – but whoever steps into Lovejoy’s shoes will have a cult TV icon to live up to!
Where can I watch Lovejoy?
You can watch original episodes of the series free of charge on streaming platform U.
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