Doc Martin star Martin Clunes' ITV drama brutally axed after ratings disaster

Martin Clunes' ITV drama Out There won't be getting a second series after its debut failed to get the ratings needed, according to reports. The drama aired earlier this year with Martin playing a father trying to protect his son after he got involved in a network of drug dealers working across county lines. The six-part series explored the issue of urban drug gangs operating in rural areas.

Martin played Welsh farmer Nathan Williams, who got sucked into a criminal underworld. They targeted Nathan's son Johnny, played by Louis Ashbourne Serkis, who is the real-life son of actors Andy Serkis and Lorraine Ashbourne.

Martin told The Sun: "We were keen on doing a second series but ITV aren't, it seems. It didn't quite pull the numbers they wanted, unfortunately."

ITV told the publication: "We are really proud of Out There and would like to thank Martin and the production team for delivering a brilliant series.

"We do always hope to see our series return and we are sorry we didn't get this drama to connect with a big enough audience to see that happen."

Out There was produced by Buffalo Pictures - the same production comany that teamed up with Martin on hit crime drama Manhunt, as well as comedy drama Doc Martin and two wildlife shows also fronted by the actor.