Blake returns in Sci-Fi channel audio drama

The Sci Fi channel has acquired a 36-part audio drama version of the cult sci-fi series, Blake’s 7.Produced by B7 Productions, the audio dramas are based on the original format and characters created by the late Terry Nation, who wrote the 1970s and 80s TV series.No Angels and Doctor Who actor Derek Riddgell will star as Roj Blake, with Colin Salmon as computer expert Kerr Avon, and This Life’s Daniela Nardini as the evil Supreme Commander Servalan.Other cast members of the new audio series include Robin of Sherwood actor Michael Praed and Celebrity Big Brother star, Rula Lenska.Jon Farrar, programming director for Sci-Fi, said: "As Sci Fi is a place that allows its audience to let their imaginations run free, this fantastic audio series is tailor made. There’s no doubt that with Blake’s 7’s enduring popularity and cult status, this remarkable re-imagining will delight fans old and new."The audio series will be available through the Sci Fi broadband player section of the channel's website from today. The player recently saw success with the channel’s first ever online premiere of Heroes, Sci Fi’s highest ever rated show.Andrew Mark Sewell, managing director, B7 Productions, said: "The Sci Fi channel is the perfect home to debut our re-imagining of this cult classic. It’s great to work with a broadcaster that is equally enthusiastic about how we want to develop and deliver Blake’s 7. Thirty years since the original series, television science fiction is still mapping the paths first explored by Terry Nation’s creation, so it’s apt that with this all-new Blake’s 7 we should be exploring new ways of delivering original content."A purpose-built micro-site has also been developed, along with a a 'behind-the-scenes' programme, which will premiere on Sci Fi this summer