Gavin and Stacey: Britain’s Beloved Sitcom Bids Farewell After 17 Years
A Television Phenomenon Comes to an End
After 17 years of laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments, the final episode of Gavin & Stacey aired on 25 December 2024, 17 years after the show was first broadcast. The beloved British sitcom, created by James Corden and Ruth Jones, has captured the hearts of millions with its heartwarming portrayal of two families from different corners of Britain—one from Billericay in Essex and the other from Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales.
The finale was the most-watched scripted show in over two decades, proving that the series has maintained its special place in British popular culture. The Christmas Day special brought closure to fans who had been waiting five years since the 2019 episode ended on a dramatic cliffhanger, with Nessa proposing to Smithy.
Record-Breaking Success and Cultural Impact
The show’s popularity has been extraordinary. The Christmas special which aired on 25 December 2019 had 18.49 million total viewers (11.6 million overnight), making the broadcast in the United Kingdom the most-viewed non-sporting event in a decade and the most-watched comedy in 17 years. This success demonstrated the enduring appeal of Gavin, Stacey, Smithy, Nessa, and the entire ensemble cast.
Stars Reunite for New Projects
The magic of Gavin and Stacey continues beyond the finale. Gavin & Stacey stars, Matthew Horne and Joanna Page, have reunited just in time for Christmas, and the duo are set to appear in How to Say It With Food, a festive mini-series from Waitrose. Meanwhile, James Corden and Ruth Jones are set to write, produce and act in a new Apple TV+ drama, according to the Daily Mail, with the pair having apparently signed a deal with Apple on a new series set to go into production next year.
What Made Gavin and Stacey Special
The sitcom resonated with audiences through its authentic portrayal of family life, friendship, and love across cultural divides. From Uncle Bryn’s mysterious fishing trip to Nessa’s outrageous business ventures, the show created countless memorable moments that became part of British cultural conversation. James Corden and Ruth Jones have revealed the show’s story will continue in a new book to be published in Autumn 2025, giving fans one more opportunity to revisit their favourite characters.
A Legacy That Endures
As viewers said goodbye to the Shipmans and the Wests, the finale provided the emotional closure that fans desperately wanted. The show’s significance extends beyond entertainment—it became a shared cultural experience that brought families together, particularly during the Christmas season. While the television journey has concluded, the impact of Gavin and Stacey will continue to influence British comedy for years to come, remaining a benchmark for heartfelt, character-driven sitcoms that balance humour with genuine emotion.