‘Victoria’ is to get a Christmas special – but it won’t air until next year.
The period drama, which has received rave reviews since it hit television screens just over a month ago, has been given the go-ahead for a second series and a one-off festive episode in late 2017.
Asked if she’s begun writing the new series during a Twitter Q&A with RadioTimes.com, writer Daisy Goodwin said: "yes I have! much to the producer’s relief. it’s not easy, but hope you will approve when it airs next year, autumn 2017 +xmas special (sic)."
The first series, which concluded over the weekend, depicts the early life of Queen Victoria – played by Jenna Coleman – from her accession to the throne through to her relationship with Prince Albert (Tom Hughes).
Details surrounding the second series are being kept under wraps for the time being but it’s thought it will document the struggles Victoria faced being Queen as well as caring for her husband and their children.
Bosses announced the drama had been commissioned for another series last month after it jumped ahead of the its rival BBC’s ‘Poldark’, which was on at the same time over the weekend, in the ratings war.
ITV’s Director of Television, Kevin Lygo said: "We’re thrilled with the reception for ‘Victoria’. We’re pleased to be able to confirm that Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes will return to continue the story on ITV."
Producers are also hoping to export ‘Victoria’ worldwide as they believe it could emulate the success of international hit ‘Downtown Abbey’, which came to an end in December 2015 following five years on screen.
The source said recently: "They’re [the bosses] hoping it will be popular in the US who love the royal family and lapped up ‘Downton Abbey’."
Victoria to get Christmas special
