Life on Mars (2006): episodes, history and where to watch

AT A GLANCE

Life on Mars first went out in January 2006 on BBC One. It ran until 2007, with 2 series and 16 episodes so far. Where it streams changes often, so check the official services before paying for one.

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Why it is worth your time

A 2006 detective is hit by a car and wakes up in 1973 Manchester, working for Gene Hunt. Mad, in a coma, or back in time? Sixteen episodes and a sequel, Ashes to Ashes.

The details

First broadcast: 9 January 2006
Originally on: BBC One
On air: 2006–2007
Series: 2
Episodes: 16
Typical length: 60 minutes
Genres: Drama, Crime, Science-Fiction
First episode: “Episode 1”

Watching it the official way

Older programmes move between broadcasters, streaming services and DVD releases as rights are sold and resold. Paying the rights holder keeps archives alive and pays the people who made them.

The BritCast TV library changes with sources and rights, so we never promise a title before checking. Ask us and we will look, or try a day free and search for yourself.

Life on Mars: quick answers

When did Life on Mars start?

On 9 January 2006, on BBC One.

How many episodes of Life on Mars are there?

16 had been broadcast by 14 October 2026, across 2 series. The last aired in 2007.

Where can I watch Life on Mars now?

Rights to older programmes move between services and channels; check BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and the main streaming services, or buy it on DVD or digitally.

Dates and episode counts from TVmaze (2026-10-14), CC BY-SA 4.0. Artwork © its owners, shown only to identify the programme.