Primeval Primeval's Hannah: 'It's more intricate this time'

Star Hannah Spearritt talks about the return of previously axed ITV1 adventure series Primeval...

How did you feel when Primeval was axed in 2009?
"I thought it was a shame, especially for storyline purposes. Connor and Abby where literally trapped up a tree in the Cretaceous period!"

How does it feel to be back?
"It's been lovely, both for personal reasons and for the fans. In a way, Primeval feels like a new show. Having a year away has given it a new lease of life and energy."

It's also a year later in the show; how have things changed for your character, Abby, and her love interest, Connor?
"The whole set-up is completely different now. Abby feels betrayed when, after returning through an anomaly, she's told there's no place for her and Connor any more now the ARC is no longer fully government managed."

And Connor and Abby are now an item?
"Yes they got it together in the Cretaceous! But as the series continues the relationship goes through difficulties. But this is further down the line and when we first see them they're in love and unified having survived the Cretaceous together. However it becomes questionable whether they'll make it as a couple - but that's all to come!"

What other changes can we expect?
"There are lots of new characters. The only other familiar face apart from Abby and Connor is Lester, played by Ben Miller. Although a couple of other familiar faces make an appearance as the series progresses."

Do you think the show might attract a new audience?
"I think there's something for old fans and a new audience. The show's more intricate and could stand alone as a drama this time round."

What about the sci-fi aspect of the programme?
"It's a lot more focused on the science this year and asks questions, such as, why do anomalies exist?"

How do the monsters look in the new series?
"The dinosaurs look so much better this year and one of the reasons for that is it's shot in HD for the first time. You can see every hair and wrinkle!"

How are you with snakes and bugs in real life?
"Not too good. I'm quite comfortable when I'm pretending they're there on the show, but if they were really there I'd be awful!"