Executive producer, writer and lead star Ricky Gervais has today discussed the future of his hit Channel 4 comedy-drama programme Derek. Set to return later today for its second season, the series depicts the antics of Derek Noakes (Gervais), an autistic care worker whose charm and unyielding faith in people begins to infect the other staff and residents at the Broad Hill nursing home.
To date, Gervais' shows such as The Office, Extras and Life's Too Short have only run for one or two seasons (at least in the case of their UK incarnations) and a Christmas/Easter Special due to the comic and actor usually wanting to move on to new material rather than continuously cashing in on repetitive catchphrases and gimmicks (indeed, Extras placed its focus on a fictitious TV writer who faced much the same dilemma). The situation may not be as simple as that for Derek, however, since Gervais has hinted that he is considering the notion of penning a full third season of six further episodes for Channel 4 in the not too distant future.
Nothing's certain as of yet, but here's what he had to say on the matter to Digital Spy: "It's the first time I've ever considered doing a third series of something. I think I certainly want to do the two series and a special for Derek and then see. I don't want to make TV for the sake of it. You have other ideas and also you don't want to outstay your welcome." If nothing else, it's reassuring to hear direct from the horse's mouth that we should still receive a seasonal Special of Derek after Season Two has aired (and let's be honest, Christmas 2014 seems like a pretty safe bet if so), yet this writer would be ecstatic to see a full third season put into production, and if that scenario does come to pass, then you'll be the first to know here at On-Screen.
Derek returns to Channel 4 for its emotional second season tonight (April 23rd) at 10pm.
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