Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Bluestone 42

Bluestone 42 is a British sitcom that centres on the daily operations and personal interactions of a fictional British Army bomb disposal unit, designated Bluestone 42, deployed in Afghanistan as part of Operation Herrick.^[1] The series blends dark humour with the high-stakes realities of counter-improvised explosive device (IED) work, portraying the team's camaraderie, tensions, and coping mechanisms amid the dangers of war.^[2] Created and primarily written by Richard Hurst and James Cary, it premiered on BBC Three on 5 March 2013 and concluded after three series comprising 21 episodes in 2015.^[3]^[2] The narrative follows Captain Nick Medhurst (Oliver Chris), a charismatic yet self-absorbed bomb disposal officer who leads the team with a penchant for fine dining and sarcasm; his second-in-command, the diligent Corporal Christian "Millsy" Mills (Gary Carr); the tough signals specialist Corporal Lynda "Bird" Bird (Katie Lyons); the ambitious but overlooked Lance Corporal Simon Lansley (Stephen Wight); and the escorting privates, the wisecracking Glaswegian Private Kevin "Mac" McDowell (Jamie Quinn) and the dim-witted but loyal Edinburgh native Private Euan "Rocket" Armstrong (Scott Hoatson).^[1] Supporting characters include the battle-hardened Lieutenant Colonel Philip Smith (Tony Gardner), who commands the battlegroup, and the earnest chaplain Major Reverend Mary Greenstock (Kelly Adams).^[1] The ensemble navigates not only explosive threats but also romantic entanglements, cultural clashes with their Afghan interpreter Faruq (Keeno Lee Hector), and the psychological toll of their service.^[1] Filmed entirely on location in South Africa to replicate the Afghan environment, the series was produced in-house by BBC Comedy Productions, with executive producer Stephen McCrum and directors Iain B. MacDonald (15 episodes) and David Sant (6 episodes).^[4]^[5] It garnered praise for its authentic depiction of military life and gallows humour, as noted by bomb disposal veterans, and holds a 7.9/10 rating on IMDb from over 2,600 user reviews.^[6]^[2]

Background

Premise

Bluestone 42 is a British comedy-drama series that centers on a bomb disposal team from the British Army, designated as Bluestone 42, serving in Afghanistan during Operation Herrick. The narrative revolves around their perilous missions to locate and neutralize improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in hostile environments, juxtaposed against the routines of life at a forward operating base in Helmand Province.^[7]^[8] The show's tone blends high-stakes drama with black humor, drawing from the soldiers' camaraderie, bureaucratic frustrations, and interpersonal dynamics, including romantic tensions and the psychological strains of deployment. It portrays archetypal military roles, such as the confident yet impulsive captain overseeing operations, to highlight how humor serves as a coping mechanism for the boredom and trauma of war. Themes emphasize the absurdities of military life and the human cost of conflict, often evoking comparisons to MAS*H for its wartime wit and The Hurt Locker for its intense focus on explosive ordnance disposal.^[9]^[10]^[11] Episodes, typically running about 30 minutes, interweave adrenaline-fueled action sequences with comedic vignettes exploring base life and team interactions, underscoring the blend of danger and levity that defines the unit's experiences.^[10]^[12]

Development and Production

Bluestone 42 was co-created and written by Richard Hurst and James Cary, who drew inspiration from extensive research into real military operations, including interviews with serving and former soldiers from conflicts in the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. The duo, who previously collaborated on the sitcom Miranda, aimed to blend authentic portrayals of bomb disposal work with comedic elements, emphasizing the camaraderie and dark humor among troops. Their process involved reading military accounts, reviewing online forums like ARRSE for soldier perspectives, and consulting documentaries to ensure the series captured the realities of counter-IED teams without relying on personal service experience.^[13] The series was developed as a pilot project in 2011 under the working title IED before being commissioned as a full eight-part run by BBC Three controller Zai Bennett in late 2012, with production handled by BBC Productions. Executive producer Stephen McCrum and producer Michelle Farr oversaw the project, focusing on maintaining authenticity through on-set military advisors who provided technical guidance during scripting and filming. Hurst and Cary remained closely involved, refining scripts line by line and contributing to story planning to balance humor with the high-stakes environment of Operation Herrick.^[14]^[4] Filming took place primarily in South Africa from 2012 to 2015, with locations around Stellenbosch and Cape Town serving as cost-effective stand-ins for the Afghan desert landscape, allowing for expansive outdoor shoots that simulated warzone conditions. The production prioritized practical effects and real-time coordination to depict bomb disposal scenes realistically, while the show's runtime was kept to approximately 30 minutes per episode to suit BBC Three's youthful audience. Over three series, Bluestone 42 produced a total of 21 episodes, including a 2013 Christmas special.^[15]^[16] The series concluded after its third run in 2015, with Hurst and Cary announcing no fourth season due to BBC Three's transition to an online-only platform, which shifted commissioning priorities, and the real-world withdrawal of British forces from Afghanistan following the end of Operation Herrick in 2014. This timing aligned the show's narrative endpoint with broader geopolitical changes, allowing it to end on a note reflective of the era's military engagements.^[17]^[18]

Cast and Characters

Main Cast

The main cast of Bluestone 42 features a core ensemble portraying the members of the British Army's bomb disposal team Bluestone 42, along with key base personnel, whose interactions drive the series' blend of dark humor and military drama.^[1] Oliver Chris plays Captain Nick Medhurst, the team's Ammunition Technical Officer (ATO) and leader, depicted as a wise-cracking expert in bomb disposal who seeks thrills through new experiences, gourmet food, and fine alcohol, often leading to complications in his personal life. Chris, known prior to the series for roles in ITV dramas such as Green Wing and Hotel Babylon, as well as the film Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason and the stage production One Man, Two Guvnors, brings a charismatic arrogance to Medhurst, whose portrayal evolves from a self-centered officer focused on personal indulgences to a more team-oriented leader by later seasons.^[1]^[19] Gary Carr portrays Corporal Christian "Millsy" Mills, Nick's diligent and tech-savvy right-hand man, a newcomer to the team who is intelligent but prone to excessive talking, often clashing with cultural and operational dynamics in the field. A British actor of Antiguan descent, Carr had appeared in BBC series like Death in Paradise and Inspector George Gently before Bluestone 42, with notable theatre work in Nation and Dido, Queen of Carthage; his performance highlights Millsy's growth from an eager but overwhelmed recruit to a reliable operative.^[1] Stephen Wight stars as Lance Corporal Simon Lansley, the team's protector for the ATO during operations, an ambitious soldier overlooked for promotion due to perceived unfitness for leadership, contributing to the group's tense dynamics. Wight, with prior television credits including The Paradise and Sherlock, and theatre roles in The Ladykillers, embodies Simon's frustration and loyalty, developing the character into a more resigned yet steadfast team member across the series.^[1] Jamie Quinn acts as Private Kevin "Mac" McDowell, a stoic Scottish military escort providing comic relief through deadpan humor and profane banter, grounding the team's high-stakes missions with his Glasgow roots. Quinn, a Scottish performer with appearances in Casualty and Taggart, and the National Theatre of Scotland's Black Watch, delivers Mac's portrayal as a reliable, humorously blunt presence whose role subtly shifts toward deeper emotional support for the unit.^[1] Scott Hoatson is Private Euan "Rocket" Armstrong, an enthusiastic but naive escort soldier motivated more by the perks of military life like food and weaponry than strategic acumen, adding levity through his wide-eyed innocence. Hoatson, previously seen in Taggart and Case Histories, with film work in The Vigil and stage adaptations like Romeo and Juliet, portrays Rocket's arc from bumbling novice to a surprisingly capable, if still comical, team asset.^[1] Katie Lyons plays Corporal Lynda "Bird" Bird, the sharp-witted signals expert who functions as "one of the lads," excelling in banter while handling communications and occasionally team injuries, with romantic tensions adding layers to her role. Lyons, with credits in Boy A and Him & Her, and theatre pieces like The Kitchen, infuses Bird with unyielding confidence, evolving the character from a tough outsider to an integral emotional anchor for the squad.^[1] Tony Gardner depicts Lieutenant Colonel Philip Smith, the bumbling base commander whose administrative satire stems from his nearing retirement, allowing him unchecked eccentricities that contrast the team's fieldwork. Gardner, recognized from Last Tango in Halifax and the film Mad, Sad & Bad, with theatre in The Rivals, captures Smith's ineptitude as a source of recurring humor, developing him into a sympathetic figure whose leadership flaws highlight military bureaucracy.^[1]

Recurring Characters

Reverend Major Mary Greenstock, played by Kelly Adams across the first two series, acts as the unit's chaplain, delivering moral guidance and injecting humor through her earnest efforts to integrate into the team's banter-heavy environment despite her clerical role.^[1] She becomes entangled in romantic subplots, particularly with Captain Nick Medhurst, which underscore the challenges of personal relationships in a high-stress setting and lead to her eventual transfer request.^[19] Her presence offers a counterpoint to the team's cynicism, emphasizing themes of faith and resilience amid operational dangers.^[20] Captain Ellen Best, enacted by Laura Aikman in series 3, joins as a new bomb disposal expert, bringing a disciplined, rule-abiding approach that contrasts sharply with the established team's laid-back style and sparks subplots involving rivalry and adjustment.^[19] Her arrival introduces fresh dynamics, including clashes with Corporal Lynda Bird and romantic interest from Simon, enhancing ensemble conflicts without overshadowing core operations.^[21] Best's character expands the team's capabilities while providing opportunities for humor derived from her organizational zeal in chaotic scenarios.^[22] Faruq, performed by Keeno Lee Hector throughout the series, functions as the local Afghan interpreter and fixer, bridging cultural divides with his resourceful, opportunistic personality that often leads to comedic misunderstandings and subplots involving local negotiations.^[1] His survivalist traits and eagerness to assist—sometimes through dubious means like selling bootlegged goods—add authenticity to interactions with the main cast, highlighting cross-cultural humor and the realities of coalition operations.^[19] Corporal Gordon "Towerblock" House, brought to life by Matthew Lewis starting in series 2, serves as an additional soldier and second-in-command, contributing working-class Yorkshire grit and mechanical expertise to subplots that explore team hierarchy and regional pride.^[19] His chip-on-the-shoulder demeanor fuels banter with privates like Rocket, expanding the ensemble's scope and providing relief through physical comedy and loyalty-driven antics.^[23] Susan Wokoma plays Corporal Jasmine Holt, the team's medic who appears across the series, providing medical support and adding humor through her no-nonsense attitude and interactions with the squad's antics.^[19]

Guest Characters

Guest appearances in Bluestone 42 frequently feature military specialists, such as explosives experts or logistics officers, who appear in single episodes to advance specific operational subplots and lend procedural authenticity drawn from real army consultations.^[20] Afghan locals, portrayed by various actors, recur sporadically as villagers or informants, enriching cultural interactions and providing humorous or tense relief through translation mishaps and local customs.^[3] These one-off roles, including brief cameos by higher-ranking officers or civilian contractors, support episodic humor without integrating into the core narrative, emphasizing the detachment's isolated yet interconnected world.^[24]

Episodes

Series 1 (2013)

The first series of Bluestone 42 consists of eight episodes, broadcast on BBC Three from 5 March to 23 April 2013.^[25] It introduces the core team of a British bomb disposal unit stationed in Afghanistan, led by the vain and ambitious Captain Nick Medhurst (Oliver Chris), alongside Corporal Christian "Millsy" Mills (Gary Carr), Corporal Lynda "Bird" Bird (Katie Lyons), Lance Corporal Simon Lansley (Stephen Wight), Private Kevin "Mac" McDowell (Jamie Quinn), and Private Euan "Rocket" Armstrong (Scott Hoatson).^[25] The season establishes the group's dynamics through high-stakes operations and base life, blending situational comedy with the perils of counter-IED work during Operation Herrick.^[2] The overarching plot centers on the team's initial assembly and adaptation to their hazardous routine, marked by their first major improvised explosive device (IED) missions. Early episodes depict the unit's deployment for roadside clearances, where routine tasks escalate into ambushes and procedural mishaps, such as mistaking a Walkman for a detonator during an operation that buries their bomb-disposal robot Arthur.^[26] As the series progresses, it builds base romances, notably Nick's persistent but awkward pursuit of the base chaplain, Mary, which intersects with professional duties and leads to misunderstandings, like after a rescue mission involving a kidnapped Danish aid worker.^[25] Rivalries emerge through internal banter and external tensions, including Simon's clashes with team protocol and competition from rival units like the Road Hoggs.^[25] Key events highlight the blend of peril and absurdity, including a high-tension disposal gone awry in an opening ambush that tests the team's cohesion, and a climactic episode where Nick defuses a device near a local clinic amid personal crises like Simon's disrupted wedding plans.^[26] Cultural clashes arise during interactions with locals, such as handling an endangered Afghan gecko or navigating aid worker dynamics, underscoring the unit's immersion in the region's complexities.^[25] A mortar attack on the base in episode seven further intensifies the stakes, forcing the team to shelter while maintaining morale through games like Scrabble.^[25] Thematically, the series introduces the delicate balance of humor amid war's dangers, using gallows wit in banter during ops to humanize the soldiers' risks, while satirizing military bureaucracy through recurring motifs like endless paperwork and training mishaps that undermine efficiency.^[2] These elements set the tone for the show's exploration of camaraderie under fire, without delving into later developments.^[2]

Christmas Special (2013)

The Bluestone 42 Christmas special aired on BBC Three on 26 December 2013, running for 30 minutes as a standalone holiday episode following the first series.^[27] It introduces Corporal Gordon "Towerblock" House (played by Matthew Lewis), a cocky Yorkshireman who replaces the departed Millsy as Captain Nick Medhurst's new second-in-command on his first tour of duty.^[28] House, having excelled at training, quickly clashes with Nick in a class-based rivalry, dubbing him "Rupert" while enduring nicknames like "Towerblock" in return.^[28]^[27] Set on Christmas Eve at the team's base in Afghanistan, the episode blends seasonal festivities with the unit's high-stakes reality, as the Taliban remain active and force the team to stay vigilant.^[29] The plot centers on the group's attempts to celebrate amid tension, incorporating holiday tropes such as a chaotic Nativity play—where Bird (Katie Lyons) is cast as the Virgin Mary and grapples with a false pregnancy scare that heightens her anxiety—and preparations for an unconventional Christmas dinner featuring deep-fried goose prepared by Rocket (Scott Hoatson) and Mac (Jamie Quinn).^[29] A sudden Taliban attack interrupts the merriment, presenting a bomb threat that requires the team to unite, testing House's inexperience and ultimately reconciling the initial conflicts between him and Nick.^[29]^[27] Key events highlight the show's signature dark humor during downtime, including romantic undercurrents in Bird's personal turmoil and Simon's (Stephen Wight) efforts to spread festive cheer through the play, which both Nick and House resist participating in. The comedic mission unfolds as the team dons makeshift festive disguises for the Nativity amid the base's preparations, leading to absurd mishaps that underscore the absurdity of holiday traditions in a war zone. The episode culminates in a lighthearted food fight at dinner, providing comic relief after the threat is neutralized.^[29] As the first special in the series, it experiments with an expanded format by weaving in lighter, holiday-themed chaos while bridging to Series 2 through House's integration, which builds on the established dynamics of Nick's leadership and the team's banter from Series 1.^[27]^[29]

Series 2 (2014)

Series 2 of Bluestone 42 consists of six episodes, broadcast on BBC Three from 27 February to 3 April 2014.^[30]^[31] The season builds on the established team dynamics from the first series by introducing deeper interpersonal conflicts and new personnel, while escalating the operational risks faced by the bomb disposal unit in Afghanistan. A key addition is the replacement of the previous team member Millsy with the working-class sapper Gordon "Towerblock" House, played by Matthew Lewis, whose class differences immediately spark tensions with the more privileged Captain Nick Medhurst, leading to clashes over leadership styles and personal backgrounds.^[32]^[15] This shift amplifies the unit's internal frictions, as seen in episodes where Towerblock's direct approach challenges Nick's authority during missions.^[33] An intelligence subplot emerges as the team tracks a persistent Taliban bomber targeting Nick, adding layers of suspense and forcing the group to confront external threats alongside their domestic squabbles. This pursuit culminates in high-stakes sequences, including a terrorist attack and the handling of unexploded ordnance, which highlight the precarious nature of their work. Personal losses are underscored through reflections on departed comrades and the emotional toll of prolonged deployment, with characters grappling with isolation and unresolved grief.^[28]^[34] Key events include a major betrayal scare when Simon's weapon malfunctions due to a missing firing pin, raising suspicions of sabotage within the team and straining trust among members. The evolving romance between Nick and the chaplain Mary intensifies, marked by awkward flirtations and a misguided scheme by Bird to push them together, resulting in feigned intimacy that exposes their vulnerabilities. Mission complications arise from faulty equipment, such as jammed firearms during critical defusals.^[35]^[32] Thematically, the series shifts toward exploring war fatigue and declining morale, portraying the soldiers' exhaustion through humorous yet poignant vignettes like chaotic food fights and reluctant participation in base parties, which serve as coping mechanisms amid the relentless pressure of combat duties. These elements emphasize the human cost of extended tours, with the team's unity tested but ultimately reinforced through shared adversities, such as repelling an enemy assault that unites them against common foes.^[15]^[32]

Series 3 (2015)

The third series of Bluestone 42 consists of six episodes, broadcast weekly on BBC Three from 9 March to 13 April 2015.^[36]^[31] The season opens immediately after the cliffhanger from series 2, with the team recovering from an IED explosion that struck their Mastiff vehicle, leaving them trapped in hostile territory and some members injured.^[37]^[38] As British forces prepare for withdrawal from Afghanistan—mirroring the real-world conclusion of Operation Herrick in late 2014—the Bluestone 42 unit undertakes their final high-risk missions, including a major operation involving a suicide bomber and an assault on a Taliban position that distracts from internal conflicts.^[39] Throughout, the narrative builds tension around the end of their deployment, with the team facing bureaucratic hurdles, interpersonal tensions, and the emotional weight of impending separation from their roles and each other. Key events center on personnel changes and climactic operations that test the team's resilience. Early in the series, Captain Nick Medhurst (played by Oliver Chris) suffers a concussion during the initial IED incident but heroically saves the team; however, he soon departs the unit, marking a significant shift in leadership.^[22] His replacement, the rule-oriented Captain Ellen Best (Laura Aikman), arrives and initially clashes with the team, splitting loyalties during a mission to recover stolen equipment, though she proves her mettle by neutralizing a suicide bomber threat.^[38] Later episodes escalate with a Taliban attack forcing Ellen and others to set aside bickering, while Mac and Rocket's personal feud boils over, and Ellen learns to adapt by bending protocols in a critical situation. The season culminates in the team's last assignment: destroying a downed U.S. drone under fire, during which Simon (Stephen Wight) performs a heroic act but is denied a medal, leading to his devastating news and a breakdown where he goes absent without leave (AWOL).^[39]^[38]^[40] Thematically, series 3 provides closure by blending the show's signature humor with poignant reflections on military service, emphasizing the legacy of camaraderie forged in danger amid withdrawal pressures. The narrative resolves ongoing tensions from prior seasons through emotional farewells and introspection, as the team confronts the bittersweet end of their tour—returning home not as unbroken heroes, but as individuals shaped by loss, sacrifice, and unacknowledged valor.^[3]^[38] This finale underscores the human cost of operations like Herrick, where final missions serve as both professional culminations and personal reckonings.

Reception

Critical Response

Bluestone 42 received widespread praise from critics for its innovative blend of high-stakes military action and irreverent comedy, often highlighted in early reviews for its bold approach to depicting ongoing conflict. In a 2013 feature, The Independent described the series as "The Hurt Locker meets Miranda," commending its ability to balance edgy tension with entertaining sitcom elements while celebrating the camaraderie and professionalism of soldiers in Afghanistan.^[8] The review noted the show's authenticity, informed by extensive military consultation, which allowed it to portray banter and procedures realistically without sensationalizing the dangers of bomb disposal. Similarly, another Independent critique positioned it alongside classics like MAS*H for its attempt to humanize wartime experiences through humor, though acknowledging the challenge of airing during an active conflict.^[41] The series also earned endorsements from military experts for its accurate representation of bomb disposal operations and the role of black humor in coping with trauma. Bomb disposal corporal Daniel Whittingham, with two tours in Afghanistan, praised Bluestone 42 in The Guardian for capturing the gallows humor essential to soldiers' resilience, citing specific scenes like the "jockstrap of destiny" award as reflective of real squaddie wit. He affirmed the procedural realism, stating that even comedic mishaps, such as equipment failures during defusals, mirrored actual incidents he witnessed, making the show "true to life" despite its humorous tone.^[6] Critics offered some reservations about the show's tonal consistency and comedic execution, particularly in navigating between farce and drama. A Guardian review of the premiere episode appreciated the confident, broad humor reminiscent of Dad's Army but critiqued it for lacking deeper emotional discomfort, with certain jokes feeling basic and underdeveloped rather than sharply incisive. The Independent echoed this, observing that while barrack-room banter succeeded, the series occasionally struggled with its hybrid format, leading to uneven shifts between exaggeration and realism that prevented a fully cohesive tone. Some reviewers of later seasons suggested that the 30-minute episode structure occasionally constrained narrative depth, resulting in rushed resolutions to complex character arcs.^[42]^[41] Aggregate scores reflect strong overall approval, with IMDb users rating the series 7.9 out of 10 based on over 2,600 reviews, praising its authentic humor and character dynamics. On Rotten Tomatoes, no Tomatometer or audience scores are available due to limited reviews.^[2]^[43]

Audience and Legacy

Bluestone 42 garnered solid viewership during its original run on BBC Three, with episodes attracting peak audiences of approximately 1 to 2 million viewers, particularly in later series where consolidated figures averaged over two million, including iPlayer streams and repeats.^[18]^[44] The show's appeal stemmed from its accessible late-night slot and relatable character dynamics, fostering a dedicated audience among younger viewers interested in military-themed content. Post-cancellation in 2015, Bluestone 42 cultivated a cult following through online reruns and streaming platforms, where it remains available for free on services like Pluto TV and for purchase on Prime Video as of 2025.^[45] Fans have expressed strong appreciation for the series' authentic representation of military life, praising its depiction of gallows humor, operational stresses, and interpersonal banter among bomb disposal teams, which resonated with both veterans and general audiences.^[6] Discussions in online communities often highlight the show's realism in equipment, language, and daily routines, drawing comparisons to real experiences in Afghanistan.^[46] Despite lacking major award nominations, Bluestone 42 achieved niche acclaim in British comedy for its innovative blend of sitcom tropes with the high-stakes setting of modern warfare, influencing the dark comedic tone in subsequent military-themed productions.^[47] No revivals or reboots have been announced as of 2025, yet its availability on streaming ensures ongoing accessibility, allowing new generations to engage with its commentary on service personnel's resilience and camaraderie. The series' focus on Operation Herrick-era deployments has prompted retrospective reflections on the British military's Afghan involvement, especially in light of the 2021 withdrawal.

Release and Distribution

Broadcast History

Bluestone 42 premiered on BBC Three on 5 March 2013, with the first series airing weekly until 23 April 2013, followed by a Christmas special later that year.^[48] The second series ran from 27 February to 3 April 2014, and the third and final series aired from 9 March to 13 April 2015, comprising a total of 21 episodes across the run.^[49] Following its initial broadcast, the series received reruns on BBC Two, including the third series in 2015, and on BBC One for the first two series, attracting notable audience figures.^[17] Internationally, the first series began airing on Australia's ABC network in December 2014, with episodes scheduled in prime time slots such as 10:05 pm on 8 December.^[50] In the United States, availability has been limited primarily to streaming services, without a traditional broadcast run on major networks.^[45] After the 2015 finale, no further episodes were produced or broadcast on linear television, and the complete series was incorporated into the BBC's digital archives.^[51] As of 2025, it remains streamable on BBC iPlayer for UK viewers, with all episodes available on demand.^[52] Internationally, the series is accessible via Amazon Prime Video in regions including the United States and United Kingdom, and for free with advertisements on Pluto TV in the US.^[53]^[54]

Home Media

The home media releases of Bluestone 42 primarily consist of DVD editions for individual series and a complete collection, distributed by BBC Worldwide in Region 2 (UK) and Region 4 formats. These provide collectors with physical access to the series beyond its original broadcast on BBC Three. No Blu-ray editions have been released.^[55] The first series, comprising eight episodes, was issued on a two-disc DVD set on 29 April 2013, with a runtime of approximately 226 minutes and English subtitles.^[56]^[55] The second series, also six episodes, followed on a single-disc DVD on 23 March 2015, running 195 minutes with subtitles.^[57]^[58] Series three, the final six episodes, appeared on another single-disc DVD on 16 November 2015, with a 165-minute runtime and subtitles.^[59] A four-disc complete collection box set, containing all 21 episodes from the three series, including the 2013 Christmas special, was released on 16 November 2015, totaling 586 minutes with English subtitles.^[60]^[61] DVD editions feature basic extras such as outtakes, scene selection, and interactive menus, though comprehensive behind-the-scenes content varies by release.^[62] Digitally, Bluestone 42 has been available for purchase and download since the mid-2010s on platforms including iTunes (now Apple TV) and Amazon Prime Video, with region-specific availability primarily in the UK and select international markets.^[63] These options complement physical media for on-demand viewing.

References

[1]
Character synopses and cast biographies - Media Centre - BBC
Bluestone 42 is a counter-IED team in Afghanistan, a close-knit group of six highly trained soldiers who do everything together.
[2]
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - IMDb
Rating 7.9/10 (2,621) Follows the lives of a group of soldiers serving in a bomb disposal detachment in Afghanistan. 7.9/10 2.6K YOUR RATING Rate Stars
[3]
Bluestone 42 - BBC3 Sitcom - British Comedy Guide
A guide to Bluestone 42, the 2013 - 2015 BBC Three TV sitcom. Comedy about an army bomb disposal detachment working in Afghanistan.
[4]
Bluestone 42 - Media Centre - BBC
Feb 18, 2013 · Bluestone 42 was filmed entirely on location in South Africa. The 8x30 minute series is produced by BBC In-house Comedy Productions. The ...
[5]
Full Bluestone 42 cast and crew credits - British Comedy Guide
A list of all credits for actors, writers, producers, directors and other cast and crew involved in BBC3's Bluestone 42.Missing: creators | Show results with:creators
[6]
A bomb disposal expert on the comedy Bluestone 42 - The Guardian
Mar 10, 2014 · Bluestone 42 succeeds in capturing the gallows humour that surrounds this most dangerous of jobs, says bomb disposal corporal Daniel Whittingham.
[7]
BBC to air comedy-drama on British soldiers serving in Afghanistan
Feb 13, 2013 · Bluestone 42 follows bomb disposal squad on tour of duty in warzone, with military advisers working on show's production.
[8]
Bluestone 42: The Hurt Locker meets Miranda in military comedy set in
Mar 5, 2013 · ... Helmand Province, Afghanistan. And yes, you did read that correctly. Filmed in South Africa, which doubles plausibly for Afghanistan, the ...
[9]
BBC Blogs - About the BBC - Bluestone 42
The premise of this comedy drama is to explore the humour that soldiers use to cope with the darkest of situations, that and the frequent boredom of being stuck ...
[10]
Bluestone 42 - ‎Apple TV
This hilarious and often surprising series follows the adventures of a bunch of diverse characters living and working together at an army base in Afghanistan.
[11]
https://www.pop-verse.com/2017/08/02/binge-watching-bluestone-42/
[12]
Bluestone 42 Season 1 - watch full episodes streaming online
Genres. Comedy, Drama, War & Military, Made in Europe ; Runtime. 28min ; Production country. United Kingdom ...8 Episodes · About The Season · CastMissing: length | Show results with:length
[13]
Bluestone 42: The research process - BBC
Mar 5, 2013 · Richard Hurst is co-writer of Bluestone 42, a brand new comedy drama following the lives of a bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan. ...
[14]
BBC Three to broadcast bomb disposal comedy drama
Feb 14, 2013 · BBC Three has announced Bluestone 42, an eight-part comedy drama series about a British bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan.Missing: 2012 development
[15]
TV blog - Bluestone 42: New challenges in our second series - BBC
Mar 20, 2014 · Stellenbosch, South Africa is a really beautiful place to shoot in, even if it is swarming with deadly snakes. A fact we did not know on series ...
[16]
The secrets of filming Bluestone 42
Mar 9, 2015 · Where is Bluestone 42 filmed? The secrets of filming in Afghanistan with Oliver Chris and Matthew Lewis.
[17]
Bluestone 42 ends - British Comedy Guide
Jul 15, 2015 · Overall, it was felt that the show had run its course, with the return of the troops from Afghanistan, and the move of BBC Three to an online ...Missing: cancellation | Show results with:cancellation
[18]
Bluestone 42 gets its marching orders : News 2015 - Chortle
Jul 15, 2015 · BBC Three has dropped its Army sitcom Bluestone 42 after three series. The move coincides with British ground troops withdrawing from Afghanistan.Missing: cancellation | Show results with:cancellation
[19]
Bluestone 42 characters - British Comedy Guide
A guide to the main characters in Bluestone 42, including Ellen, Towerblock, Simon, Lt Col Smith, Bird, Rocket, Mac, Faruq, Jasmine, Nick, Mary, Millsy.
[20]
BBC Afghanistan bomb disposal comedy Bluestone 42 "celebrates ...
Feb 14, 2013 · Written by Richard Hurst and James Cary, Bluestone 42 sees Oliver Chris (Green Wing) take on the role of Captain Nick Medhurst – the cocky ...Missing: inspiration | Show results with:inspiration
[21]
Captain Ellen Best - Bluestone 42 - BBC
Comedy drama following the lives of a bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan.
[22]
Oliver Chris bows out of Bluestone 42 - Comedy - Radio Times
Mar 16, 2015 · Oliver Chris bows out of Bluestone 42 ... It's a sad day for fans of Oliver Chris's Nick Medhurst. The character – best known for his biting one- ...
[23]
Bluestone 42: Matthew Lewis on shirtless scenes and South Africa's ...
Dec 23, 2013 · Nowadays, Lewis is tackling an altogether different role, playing Gordon "Towerblock" House in the second series of Bluestone 42. Ad. Joining ...
[24]
Lance Corporal Simon Lansley - Bluestone 42, Series 1 - BBC
Lance Corporal Simon Lansley has one job: to protect Nick, the bomb guy. He's good at that. But he has bigger ambitions: to apply to Sandhurst and become an ...Missing: Father | Show results with:Father
[25]
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - Episode list - IMDb
### Series 1 Episode Details
[26]
"Bluestone 42" Episode #1.1 (TV Episode 2013) - IMDb
Rating 7.3/10 (60) Bluestone 42 are a British bomb disposal unit in Afghanistan,headed by vain captain Nick Medhurst. They are called out to a routine road-side op.
[27]
Bluestone 42: Christmas Special - British Comedy Guide
Notes. Originally scheduled to premiere on Monday 23rd December 2013 at 10pm, this episode was postponed due to the death of a soldier on the same day.Missing: summary | Show results with:summary
[28]
"Bluestone 42" Christmas Special (TV Episode 2013) - IMDb
Rating 8.2/10 (29) New boy Gordon House comes out to replace Millsy. He is a proud Yorkshire lad and instantly gets into a class war with Nick - whom he calls Rupert.Missing: summary | Show results with:summary
[29]
Bluestone 42, Christmas Special - BBC Three
Comedy about a British bomb disposal detachment in Afghanistan. It's Christmas and new team member Corporal House is thrown in at the deep end.Missing: plot summary
[30]
Bluestone 42 series and episodes list - British Comedy Guide
A guide to the 21 episodes across the 3 series of Bluestone 42.
[31]
Bluestone 42 (a Titles & Air Dates Guide) - Epguides.com
Jan 10, 2024 · Start date: Mar 2013. End date: Apr 2015. Status: cancelled/ended. Network(s): BBC Three (UK) Run time: 30 min. Episodes: 20 eps. Genre(s) ...
[32]
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - Episode list - IMDb
### Episode List for Bluestone 42 Season 2
[33]
Bluestone 42 Series 2 episode guide - British Comedy Guide
When Mac and Rocket set fire to part of the base, Nick takes the blame and as a punishment has to look after a Government Minister who is visiting the base.Missing: summary | Show results with:summary
[34]
Bluestone 42, Series 2, Episode 6 - BBC Three
Nick's hunt for the Taliban bomber hots up. Simon's lack of trust in Mac and Rocket comes back to bite him. Bird finds herself the reluctant participant in ...
[35]
"Bluestone 42" Episode #2.6 (TV Episode 2014) - IMDb
Rating 8.2/10 (28) The team survives a terrorist attack and an unexploded bomb but Nick berates Simon, whose gun has jammed again. In fact he has lost the firing pin.
[36]
Season 3 – Bluestone 42 - Rotten Tomatoes
Episode 1: Aired Mar 9, 2015. We rejoin the Bluestone 42 team after the IED explosion has hit their mastiff.Missing: air plot summary
[37]
Bluestone 42 Series 3 episode guide
The men and women of bomb disposal unit Bluestone 42 are back in this funny, poignant comedy. Battered and bleeding after their vehicle was rocked by an IED at ...Missing: dates summary
[38]
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - Episode list - IMDb
### Episode Summary for Bluestone 42 Season 3
[39]
BBC Three - Bluestone 42, Series 3 - Episode guide
Episode 6. 6/6 As the team prepare to leave Afghanistan for good, Simon receives some devastating news. · Episode 5. 5/6 Ellen has to learn to bend the rules, ...Missing: air dates
[40]
Bluestone 42 (Series) - TV Tropes
Bluestone 42 is a comedy drama about a British bomb disposal detachment in Afghanistan during Operation Herrick. It is a series about a bunch of soldiers …
[41]
Bluestone 42: The Hurt Locker meets Miranda in military comedy set in
Mar 5, 2013 · Blackadder Goes Forth, Dad's Army and M*A*S*H were all memorable sitcoms set against the ostensibly unpromising backdrop of war and human ...
[42]
Last night's viewing - Bluestone 42, BBC3; The Crash, BBC3
Mar 5, 2013 · I think Bluestone 42, BBC3's new comedy about a bomb-disposal team in Afghanistan, may be unique. Of course, there have been other sitcoms that ...
[43]
Bluestone 42; The Crash – TV review | TV comedy - The Guardian
Mar 5, 2013 · This military comedy set in Afghanistan – and written by the Miranda team – is funny but it gets nowhere near the bone, writes Zoe Williams.
[44]
Bluestone 42 - Rotten Tomatoes
Discover reviews, ratings, and trailers for Bluestone 42 on Rotten Tomatoes. Stay updated with critic and audience scores today!
[45]
Bluestone 42: Over and Out - Sitcom Geek
Jul 15, 2015 · The Army – in particular XI EOD, the Royal Logistics Corps bomb disposal regiment – took the show and the characters to their hearts and ...Missing: inspiration | Show results with:inspiration
[46]
Bluestone 42 - watch tv show streaming online - JustWatch
Rating 55% (130) Season 3. 6 Episodes. Series 2. Season 2. 6 Episodes. Series 1. Season 1. 8 Episodes. WATCH NEWEST EPISODES. S3 E6 - Episode 6. S3 E5 - Episode 5. S3 E4 - ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[47]
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - User reviews - IMDb
Owing homage to such media legends as M*A*S*H and Catch 22, Bluestone 42 effectively takes an eggshell topic and creates more than a few smiles. Some might ...
[48]
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - Awards - IMDb
Bluestone 42 (TV Series 2013–2015) - Awards, nominations, and wins. ... Bluestone 42. It looks like we don't have any awards for this title yet. Be the first ...Missing: nominations | Show results with:nominations
[49]
Bluestone 42, Series 2, Series 2 - BBC Three
Bluestone 42 Series 2 Series 2. Comedy drama following the lives of a bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan.Missing: Two reruns
[50]
Bluestone 42, Series 3 - BBC Three
Comedy drama series following the lives of a bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan. On iPlayer Episode 6 All available episodes (6 total)
[51]
Monday 08 December 2014 - ABC News
Dec 8, 2014 · ABC TV guide, the full 7 day ABC Television schedule. Sort by genre ... Bluestone 4210:05pm10:05pmMADrama27 mins; ABC News: Late Edition ...
[52]
Bluestone 42 - BBC Three
Bluestone 42 is a comedy drama series about a bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan. There are 21 total episodes.
[53]
Bluestone 42 - BBC iPlayer
Bluestone 42. Comedy drama series following the lives of a bomb disposal detachment serving in Afghanistan. Series 1: Episode 1 (29 mins). Start watching ...
[54]
Watch Bluestone Four Two | Prime Video - Amazon.com
Bluestone 42 is packed with the lively workmate banter and relationship minefields that most people will recognize...even if they don't face danger on a daily ...
[55]
Watch Bluestone 42 for Free Online | Pluto TV
Comedy-drama following the lives of bomb disposal experts serving in Afghanistan. Stream Bluestone 42 for free on Pluto TV.
[56]
Bluestone 42 DVD - British Comedy Guide
Bluestone 42 is a comedy drama about a British bomb disposal detachment in Afghanistan. So what's the average working day for a hero?
[57]
Bluestone 42 [DVD]: Amazon.co.uk: Kelly Adams, Gary Carr, Oliver Chris, Tony Gardner, Scott Hoatson, Keeno Lee Hector, Katie Lyons, Jamie Quinn, Stephen Wight, Iain B MacDonald, Kelly Adams, Gary Carr, Michelle Farr, James Cary, Richard Hurst: DVD & Blu-ray
### Special Features for Bluestone 42 Series 1 DVD
[58]
Bluestone 42 - Series 2 DVD - British Comedy Guide
And then there are rats to exterminate, politicians to entertain, and those genital lice won't race themselves... First released: Monday 23rd March 2015. DVD ( ...
[59]
Bluestone 42 Series 2 DVD Release Date - Matthew-Lewis.com
Feb 13, 2015 · Bluestone 42 Series 2 will be released on DVD on March 23rd and can be pre-ordered on Amazon.co.uk. You can also watch the whole series On ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[60]
Bluestone 42 - Series 3 DVD - British Comedy Guide
If you order from a UK store, please note that the UK is in Region 2 and B, respectively, for DVDs and Blu-rays - check your player's compatibility, or look for ...
[61]
Bluestone 42 - The Complete Collection DVD - British Comedy Guide
Distributor: BBC · Region: 2 & 4 · Discs: 4 · Minutes: 586 · Subtitles: English · Catalogue: BBCDVD4090.
[62]
Bluestone 42: The Complete Collection | HMV Store
In stockReleased: 16th November 2015. All 21 episodes from the first three series of the BBC comedy drama about the members of a British Army bomb disposal unit ...
[63]
Bluestone 42: DVD Review - At Darren's World of Entertainment
Aug 3, 2014 · An 8 part comedy set in Afghanistan and focussing on a British bomb disposal squad sounds like it would be something a little bit different.
[64]
‎Bluestone 42 - Apple TV
This comedy drama about a British bomb disposal detachment details the camaraderie and bonds shared between the soldiers in the unit as they risk their lives ...