Will Broadchurch Season 4 happen? Here's what we know so far

Broadchurch ( Image via YouTube /  DIRECTV Latin America )
Broadchurch ( Image via YouTube / DIRECTV Latin America )

"Is Broadchurch Season 4 happening?" is a question that is at the forefront of every fan's mind. The huge discussion still goes on among the viewers if the British crime drama will have one more season. The emotional power, the great scenery in Dorset, and the fine acting of the cast were the series' main points that attracted the audience so strongly that they did not want to let it go.

And really, who can blame them! Each twist, reveal, and emotional argument was felt to be very carefully worked out. The concluding plots were finished off in the third season, but interviewers, forums, and social media still keep asking about the existence of a fourth season, and this question remains unanswered.

What is the real scenario about Broadchurch Season 4? Let’s examine it!


The official status of Broadchurch Season 4

At the current moment, no, Broadchurch Season 4 will not happen; the acclaimed crime drama officially concluded with its third season in 2017.

All the official channels, including MediaReferee and Newspoint, believe that the series was officially wrapped up after the third season, which came out almost 8 years ago and that the makers had originally only thought of a story arc to last as a trilogy. So any wishful thinking or media speculation comes just as that, speculation, not a reflection of the development.


Creator Chris Chibnall’s position

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The series creator, Chris Chibnall, has declared on numerous occasions that Broadchurch was a trilogy. He stated that the motive of the third season was, in fact, to wrap up the story. According to Chibnall, the writer of the series, there has been no indication of going back.

As per Independent, he said,

"One of the reasons I didn't carry on Broadchurch as a show, is that I didn't want it to be like it suddenly become New York, or Midsomer Murders… So I think you have to stress the rarity [of disturbing, violent events in these rural areas]… That feels really important in how it impacts characters, how it impacts the police."

He additionally remarked that the return of the program would, without a very good reason, lessen the entire impact of the previous achievements. Thus, even though the viewers are still longing for the fourth season of Broadchurch, the author’s indication is clear: it is the end.


Cast comments on a potential fourth season of Broadchurch

The two main cast members who are frequently questioned about the possibility of being part of the cast in Broadchurch Season 4 are Detective Alec Hardy, played by Tennant, and Detective Ellie Miller, played by Colman. The two stars of the show have always expressed their admiration for working alongside each other.

As per Dramaquarterly, David Tennant said,

"It is sad to think we will never return to this world and to these characters because I feel so fondly towards them, but I will always feel proud to be associated with this show."

However, neither actor has implied that there is a fourth season in the cards. While the cast's interest or willingness does not translate into official plans, there are no talks or contracts that involve casting for Broadchurch Season 4 at this point.


Why Season 3 marked the end

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Broadchurch Season 3 not only received a complete makeover but also posed hard questions to the audience that had not been addressed before, like how deep the community's trauma and the quest for justice could go. The season was written as an epilogue, with character plots reaching their destination and no uncertain fates or any matter left unresolved.


Could a revival or special episode happen?

In theory, a revival show or a special episode of the television series could always be possible, but as of now, there is no hint or clue from ITV or even Chris Chibnall to suggest the possibility of a Broadchurch Season 4, in any form or manner.

At the moment, this could only possibly mean that for there to be a fourth season, the writer has to come up with an engaging story to relay, which he has expressly stated he does not.


The role of streaming popularity

The ongoing streaming of Broadchurch assures its constant visibility, which in turn leads to discussions among the fans and also the media getting involved. But merely being visible and popular does not mean that a new season will be made.

Broadchurch is the exception when it comes to shows that have been rescinded by the power of streaming demand, as it was an intentional closure of sorts. The mere existence of an audience for the show does not imply that there is a production of a fourth season going on quietly behind the scenes.


According to ITV and Chris Chibnall, it is clear that there will be no Broadchurch Season 4. The narrative was completely controlled after the third season, so the series was intentionally concluded.

There are no signs of a fourth season or a special episode from the perspective of the fans, the media, or the studio as well. Broadchurch keeps being a finished narrative comprehended for its powerful storytelling rather than for its uncertain future.

Also read: Which Broadchurch season keeps the tension highest? Ranking all three seasons

Edited by Sangeeta Mathew