The Stage

BBC2 to broadcast edited Torchwood episodes for kids

Published Monday 3 December 2007 at 16:30 by Matthew Hemley

BBC2 is to screen a specially edited pre-watershed version of Dr Who spin-off Torchwood aimed at younger audiences.

Each episode of the show, which moves to the BBC2 from BBC3 for a second series next year, will be repeated with an edited version that is toned down in terms of its violence to make it more family-friendly.

Its creator Russell T Davies has ruled out removing any scenes involving same-sex relationships.

Speaking today at the launch of the second series, Davies said: “We’ll cut the swearing and cut the violence, but no we will not be cutting the kissing, so no story there.”

BBC2 controller Roly Keating said the decision to repeat each episode with a pre-watershed one was prompted by demand from “families and younger viewers”, adding the move meant “everyone can enjoy the new series”.

When the second run starts next year, the regular cast of Torchwood will be joined by Buffy and Angel star James Marsters.

Other actors lined up to make guest appearances throughout the series, which is filmed in Cardiff, include Alan Dale, Richard Briers and Nerys Hughes.

BBC Wales controller Menna Richards said: “The first series of Torchwood was a huge hit with audiences. We’re extremely proud it’s produced in Wales and its success is a reflection of the huge wealth of talent and creativity that exists here.”

When Torchwood was aired on BBC3 last year it achieved the channel’s highest ratings in 2006, with an audience of 2.5 million for the first episode.

The new series will be accompanied by exclusive behind the scenes footage at bbc.co.uk/torchwood.