Gavin and Stacey: Record-Breaking Finale Marks End of an Era

Historic Viewing Figures for Beloved British Sitcom

The final episode of Gavin and Stacey has made television history, becoming the U.K.’s most-watched scripted show across all broadcasters and streamers since current records began in 2002. Ratings have already reached 19.3 million, smashing its own record from the 2019 Christmas special, which reached 18.5 million in 28 days.

The beloved BBC sitcom, created by Ruth Jones and James Corden, aired its final episode on 25 December 2024, 17 years after the show was first broadcast. The emotional farewell brought closure to the story of two families from Billericay in Essex and Barry in Wales, whose lives became intertwined through the romance of Gavin Shipman and Stacey West.

Why This Finale Matters

For millions of viewers, Gavin and Stacey represented more than just entertainment. The show’s ability to capture authentic British family life, combined with memorable characters and quotable dialogue, created a cultural phenomenon that spanned nearly two decades. Watched by 12.3 million on Christmas Day — the biggest overnight for the day since 2008, the finale demonstrated the enduring appeal of quality British comedy.

The episode also proved the show’s cross-generational appeal, with 4.2 million viewers aged 16-34, making it the highest young audience for a scripted show since 2002. This achievement highlights how the series successfully connected with both longtime fans and new viewers throughout its run.

What’s Next for the Cast

While the show has concluded, fans have more to look forward to. Matthew Horne and Joanna Page have reunited just in time for Christmas, appearing in How to Say It With Food, a festive mini-series from Waitrose. Additionally, Jones and Corden will be releasing a book, When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between: A Story of Love and Friendship, set to hit bookshelves on October 16, 2025.

The duo are also working on new projects together, with an Apple TV series, believed to be called The Choir, where Jones and Corden will star as estranged siblings who reunite after a few years apart.

A Fitting Farewell

The finale’s success demonstrates the power of well-crafted storytelling and beloved characters. As the nation bid farewell to Gavin, Stacey, Nessa, Smithy, and the rest of the gang, the record-breaking viewing figures prove that quality British comedy continues to captivate audiences in the streaming age. For fans worldwide, Gavin and Stacey will remain a cherished part of television history.