Gavin & Stacey finale breaks 20 year record
Gavin & Stacey's finale, which was aired on Christmas Day last year, has broken a 20-year record. The BBC confirmed on Thursday, January 23, that its data showed the comedy series' final ever episode reached at an astonishing 20.9m viewers after 28 days.
The finale was just pipped to the post by Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl film, which was also aired on Christmas Day, after reaching 21.6 million in 28 days. In a statement addressing the impressive viewing figures, the BBC said: "These two triumphant shows demonstrate the power of British storytelling and the sheer love and adoration for their iconic characters. Together they have set Christmas day totals not seen in 20 years."
According to the broadcast corporation, the record breaking numbers make them the UK's biggest scripted and animation shows since modern records began in 2002. On Wednesday, December 25, Gavin & Stacey fans got to say goodbye to the show's beloved main cast, which included co-creators Ruth Jones (Nessa) and James Corden (Smithy), joined by the likes of Joanna Page (Stacey), Mathew Horne (Gavin), Rob Brydon (Uncle Bryn), Melanie Walters (Gwen), Larry Lamb (Mick) and Alison Steadman (Pam). For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter.
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Fans of the show, which has been on our screens for 17 years, saw Smithy leave his bride-to-be Sonia (Laura Aikman) at the altar, as he realised that his real love was Nessa. In a bid to stop her from getting on a boat in Southampton, Smithy confessed his love for Nessa, before getting down on one knee. The final scene saw the couple enjoying married life as they joined by the Shipman and West families for a little celebration.
In response to the viewing figures, Ruth Jones and James Corden said: "What a testament to the BBC to have achieved such impressive viewing figures on Christmas Day. We are so proud to have been a part of it." Charlotte Moore, BBC's chief content Officer added: "These figures exceed all expectations, to reach over 20 million is an astonishing milestone in 2025.
"These two quintessentially British shows couldn't be more different but what unites them is their undeniable quality and the fact they are best in class. I am in awe of the creative genius that is Aardman, Nick Park, Merlin Crossingham, Ruth Jones and James Corden and I'm very proud of the long standing relationship we have with them. It’s been a privilege to support their exceptional creative talents over decades."
Catch up with Gavin & Stacey on BBC iPlayer.
