The drama will not be returning for season 4.
Sanditon fans will be sad to wave goodbye to the Jane Austen drama following its three-season run, but star Ben Lloyd-Hughes (Alexander Colbourne) has explained to RadioTimes.com why it’s no bad thing the show isn’t returning for season 4.
“One thing I’ve learned in a not epically long career is never say never, but it certainly does feel like it’s a great ending to a great three seasons that really puts a pin on a lot – if not all – of the storylines,” he said.
“And I know that no one wants it to be left on any cliff-hangers, so I think I’d much rather finish it that way and put everything to bed.”
Head writer Justin Young previously told Salon that the team were “done” after writing season 3, adding: “And I’m glad of that.”
As for how viewers will feel at the end of season 3, which has just arrived on ITVX in the UK, Lloyd-Hughes said they’ll feel both “emotional” and “satisfied”, going on to compare it to “that lovely feeling of having the best meal of your life in a restaurant that you love”.
“It’s not too fancy, not too pretentious, just on the right side of warm and welcoming,” he continued.
“And you haven’t eaten too much. You’re not completely full. But you’re nicely satisfied. You’ve had a few drinks, you’re smiling, a little bit emotional because you’ve been with great friends and family. You don’t need to return straightaway, but you’ll always be pleased if someone did invite you back.”
Read more:
- Sanditon season 2 ending explained: Cliffhanger leaves Charlotte’s fate undecided
- Sanditon star: ‘It’s almost too intense between Charlotte and Colbourne’
Lloyd-Hughes was also full of praise for his character Colbourne, describing him as a “gift of a part”.
“I had so much meat on the bone. Sometimes you do jobs where you’ve got some lines and some storyline, but it’s never quite satisfying your hunger for work and sustaining that stimulation and fulfilment. This one certainly did.
“I had a fantastic time and I’m so glad I did it. I look back on fond memories and I know speaking to Rose [Williams] that she feels exactly the same.”
Sanditon season 3 is streaming now on ITVX. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on.
Want to visit Death in Paradise locations in Guadeloupe at a discount? Radio Times is offering savings of up to 7% for registered users booking their next holiday with travel website Expedia.
Claim your exclusive Radio Times Expedia holiday discount now.
Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.