Gene Hunt: Cop Killer?

More details have been released concerning the upcoming final series of Ashes to Ashes, which is expected to resolve the mystery surrounding Gene Hunt, Alex Drake and Life on Mars central character Sam Tyler.

Gene Hunt actor Philip Glenister has been chatting about the new series, and how it introduces a new character whose role it is to investigate the accidental shooting of Alex Drake (the event that closed Series 2 – she begins the new series in a coma) and to drive a wedge between Drake and Hunt.

“Discipline and Complaints Officer, Jim Keats, is an operative brought in to oversee wrongdoings in the force,” explains Philip.

“He’s also a DCI, which doesn’t thrill Gene, and his modern approach really riles him; Gene quickly realises he’s not going to get on with him! Keats poses a threat to Gene,” continues Philip, “and they seem to play a cat-and-mouse game throughout the series, trying to outwit each other.

Could it be that Gene Hunt knows more about the death of Sam Tyler than he previously revealed?

Whatever the truth, there are just 8 more episodes of Ashes to Ashes to come – the sets are down and the Audis are locked away.

Phil admits there has been a lot fun on set while filming this final series but it has been tinged with sadness as it marks the last time the whole cast and crew will work together.

“It’s been five years of my life and it’s gone by so quickly,” confesses Philip.

“It’s been enormous fun and a great privilege to help create and be this character but I’m going to miss playing Gene a lot, no doubt about it.

“I’ll miss the giggles and the outtakes – Dean and Keeley were usually the worst offenders!

Ashes to Ashes (finally!) returns to BBC One in the Spring