BBC America Cancels Period Police Drama ‘Copper’ After Two Seasons
“Copper” won’t be coming back to BBC America for a third season. The network launched the period drama, which was created by Tom Fontana and Will Rokos and set in 1860s New York, with great fanfare in 2012 as its first wholly owned original, not a co-production. But despite record ratings when it premiered, the series has failed to find major traction in its second season, while BBC America’s latest, “Orphan Black,” has drawn serious accolades.
“‘Copper’ has been a fascinating and exciting experience for everyone involved,” BBC America’s Perry Simon said in a statement released to the press. “The opportunity to work with Tom Fontana, Barry Levinson, Will Rokos, Thomas Kelly and the extraordinary cast and crew on this journey is one that we are extremely proud of. Their vision to re-tell the immigrant experience through the melting pot of New York City was an original and fresh idea that melded well with the essence of BBC America’s programming. After 23 episodes, with Lincoln dead and the nation starting to heal, it seems a fitting moment to conclude this American story.”
Starring Tom Weston-Jones as an Irish American cop and featuring appearances from Franka Potente, Donal Logue and Alfre Woodard, “Copper” looked appropriately gritty, but had difficulty standing out amidst a crowded field of cable dramas with similar tones. The second season finale, which will also serve as the series finale, airs this very crowded Sunday night, September 22.
