Country of origin United Kingdom Original network BBC | No. of episodes 13 | |
Original release 11 September (2010-09-11) – 4 December 2010 (2010-12-04) | ||
The third series of Merlin began on 11 September 2010. Series three regular cast members include Colin Morgan, Bradley James, Katie McGrath, Angel Coulby, Anthony Head, and Richard Wilson, as well as Emilia Fox joining the regular cast. John Hurt took his previous role as the voice of the Great Dragon but was no longer one of the regular cast (though he continued to provide the opening narration for the series). Series three consists of 13 episodes. The series three premiere was watched by 6.49 million viewers.
Series 3 introduced the format of a two-part opener and two-part finale, this format was retained for Series 4 and Series 5. The series was notable for the change in character of Morgana from the sympathetic heroine in the first two series to the villain in series 3, keeping with the historical concept of Morgana as Merlin's nemesis in the legends of King Arthur. BBC officially renewed the show for series 4 on 10 October 2010.
Plot
Merlin is the first to discover Morgana's changed loyalties but he must tread carefully as Uther's affection for his "ward" has increased with her one-year absence. Arthur is likewise blind to Morgana's treachery, forcing Merlin and Gaius to be even more wary of detection as they thwart her schemes.