Life on Mars almost starred Robert Carlyle and Ray Winstone as Sam Tyler and Gene Hunt

Speaking to fans on social media during last night's Life on Mars watch-along, Graham revealed that Once Upon A Time star Robert Carlyle was at one point approached to play Sam Tyler, while King Arthur actor Ray Winstone "considered Gene [Hunt]".

"We always wanted John Simm for the role but he was unavailable initially," Graham tweeted. "So the incredible Robert Carlyle was approached and almost said yes. And Ray Winstone considered Gene. Both great actors but I'm so glad we got john and Phil [sic]."

https://twitter.com/TremensDr/status/1245411796866994182

The original 2006 series ran for two series, and focussed on the exploits of modern-day police detective Sam Tyler, who wakes up in the 1970s following a car accident.

The show's title is inspired by David Bowie's song of the same name, which is playing on the radio in Tyler's car when the accident occurs during the pilot episode.

However, Graham also revealed that various other titles were originally floated around, including "Ford Granada" and "Nick of Time".

"They [the BBC] thought it might seem too confusing calling LIFE ON MARS - too SciFi. Peter Fincham our controller was a Bowie fan so we got to keep it! [sic]," he told fans.

https://twitter.com/TremensDr/status/1245412762827792385

Somehow we're not sure "Nick of Time" would have caught on quite as well...

Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes are available to stream on BBC iPlayer – check out what else is on with our TV Guide