After 17 years of anticipation, Gavin and Stacey fans rejoiced as the beloved show finally aired its Christmas special, bringing closure to its longstanding storyline. On Christmas Day, 2021, the special brought together cherished characters and memories, capturing the hearts of many viewers.
James Corden, who co-created the series and plays Smithy, expressed appreciation on social media, stating, "Here’s some behind the scenes photos from the special. Thank you so much to everyone who watched last night. It means more than you’ll know. All my love, James xx." This heartfelt message followed the episode's impressive ratings, securing 12.3 million viewers and making it the highest-rated Christmas Day show since 2008.
The special provided answers to numerous questions left over from previous episodes, delighting audiences with unexpected twists and character returns. Fans had long speculated about Smithy's upcoming nuptials, eagerly awaiting the answer to whether he would accept Nessa's proposal. The episode put the spotlight on Smithy as he prepared for his wedding to Sonia, gathering the entire cast one last time for the ceremony.
Viewers were treated to memorable scenes, including sentimental speeches and hilarious moments, but some errors caught their attention. A continuity blunder, pointed out by fans on social media, showed Mick's (played by Larry Lamb) pint glass changing levels throughout his emotional speech to Smithy during the stag night. Comments poured onto TikTok, with one user quipping, "I love a good continuity error; Mick showing he can still drink the younger blokes under the table." Another fan echoed, "Continuity errors are so irritating because you can’t unsee them." This inadvertent mix-up added to the lighthearted charm of the show.
Ruth Jones, co-creator of Gavin and Stacey, reflected on continuity errors from the special as well. She revealed, "You know Pam leaves the Christmas puddings behind and forgets to take them because they have been otherwise occupied and they are mortified? Then Jason arrives, and he’s stopped at the shop, and he’s picked up Christmas puddings as well. So, the next morning, when they haven’t got the Christmas puddings, one of them, and I can’t recall who it is, says, 'Have we left nine Christmas puddings in the pub?' There’s 18, there’s double." This playful self-reflection demonstrates the love both creators and fans have for the show.
One of the most talked-about moments was Oscar Hartland's performance of The Beatles' "Blackbird." Hartland, who plays Neil the Baby, surprised fans with his musical talent, showcasing his vocal skills honed from his recent participation on The Voice Kids. Commentator Scott Bryan noted, "Baby Neil, who was actually one of the... babies in Gavin and Stacey when it first debuted, he was on The Voice, and they loved him on The Voice, so that's why he sings in the film." His presence not only solidified his character's backstory but also showcased his growth as both a performer and individual.
Oscar himself shared his aspirations, saying, "People know me for being Neil the Baby in Gavin and Stacey, which I absolutely love, but now I wanna be known for my music and singing." Ruth Jones even supported him during his audition process for The Voice Kids, stating, "We knows what's occurring, you're on The Voice Kids. Don't forget you takes after your mother when itcomes to music. Go out there and you smash it kid alright? Crackin'"
The culmination of the episode saw the characters come together for one final group photo, marking the end of Gavin and Stacey's charming saga. Yet, the absence of Neil the Baby at the wedding left some viewers puzzled. One Twitter user remarked, "Why was Neil 'the baby' left at his dad's failed wedding with nobody he knows whilst all the others went to off to Southampton?" Another lamented about Neil's mishap, feeling for the character, stating how they felt he was left out of the happy reunion.
Overall, the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special offered fans much-needed resolution, laughter, and nostalgia. It served as both a tribute to the beloved series and as confirmation of its enduring legacy among UK audience members. The show’s blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and musical interludes created a memorable experience cherished by its viewers for years to come.
This long-awaited Christmas treat proved successful, both critically and with the audience, marking another chapter of joy for Gavin and Stacey fans as they await potentially more news from the creators.