Fans of the beloved British sitcom Gavin & Stacey are eagerly counting down the days until the show's finale, set to air on Christmas Day. The much-anticipated 90-minute special promises to wrap up the stories of Gavin and Stacey and the characters we’ve grown to love since the series first aired from 2007 to 2010. Before the iconic show bids farewell, cast members have been reminiscing and hinting at what could come next.
One of the central figures, actor Larry Lamb, who plays Michael 'Mick' Shipman, expressed optimism about the show's future. Speaking to hosts on ITV's Loose Women, he couldn't help but reflect on the series' legacy. “Every time we finish, it’s always the last one. It’s like we’re some old rock and roller who is going off for his last world tour, he’s been doing the last world tour for 40 years. But I just can’t see the golden goose is going to get killed,” he stated. Lamb's comments suggest he believes the demand for more content could reignite the series.
Despite Lamb's enthusiasm, co-creator James Corden takes a firmer stance. He asserts this holiday episode will genuinely be the conclusion for Gavin & Stacey. On Hits Radio, Corden explained, “It can’t carry on, it genuinely can’t. And you’ll realize there’s certain moments… which make it very, very clear the show cannot carry on.” His insistence on the finale's finality indicates deep respect for the narrative's integrity and the emotional arcs developed over the years.
Anticipation is heightened due to the cliffhanger left off during the previous Christmas special back in 2019, where Vanessa 'Nessa' Jenkins, played by Ruth Jones, proposed to Corden’s character Neil 'Smithy' Smith. This unresolved tension promises to be addressed when the finale airs at 9 p.m. on December 25 on BBC One, also available on BBC iPlayer.
Fans also have reason to celebrate as several original cast members will reprise their roles for the final episode. Lamb, reflecting on his character, detailed how he has become more like Mick over time. “I think the nice side of Mick has really got its way,” Lamb noted. “I feel now I’m a lot more like him. I think he’s just a really extraordinary man.”
The upcoming episode not only sees the return of Lamb but also brings back Sheridan Smith as Ruth 'Rudi' Smith. Interestingly, actress Natalie Cassidy revealed she once auditioned for the role of Smithy's sister, indicating how competitive the casting was initially. During Off The Telly, Cassidy reminisced, “Can I tell you a secret? I auditioned for the part of Smithy’s sister…didn’t go to plan, unfortunately.” It’s been over fourteen years since Smith last played the character, and sources say she’s thrilled to return.
While discussing their experiences, the cast shared more insights about the creative process behind Gavin & Stacey. Robert Wilfort, who plays Jason, emphasized the strength of the writing, saying, “Their scripts are so good, we don’t need to [improvise]. We always have a week’s rehearsal.” This attention to detail is part of why Gavin & Stacey remains so beloved among its audience.
Looking beyond the finale, what have the cast members been working on since the show concluded? Mathew Horne, who plays Gavin, has seen notable developments. He was recently featured alongside Sigourney Weaver on stage in the West End performance of The Tempest, and he even survived a near-fatal experience when hit by a train back in 2018. “Miraculously avoided serious injury,” Horne said, reflecting on his luck.
Meanwhile, Joanna Page—who has transitioned to television presenting—recently welcomed her fourth child and expressed her love for the character Stacey, once stating she'd be “happy to do Gavin & Stacey Christmas specials until the end of time.” Ruth Jones, who plays Nessa, has also kept busy working on several best-selling novels, showcasing her versatility beyond acting.
Alison Steadman, known for her role as Pam, continues to act and remains part of the British theatre and film scene. She has enjoyed extensive roles since the show, appearing in various successful films and television series.
Beyond the individual careers of the cast, Gavin & Stacey has undeniably left its mark on British pop culture, with its unique blend of humor and heartwarming relationships. Its final episode is set to not only conclude storylines from Gavin and Stacey but also re-establish the sense of community and merriment the show has always embodied.
With the countdown to Christmas heating up, viewers are preparing for what may be the last time they see the characters they’ve grown attached to over the years. The show's legacy will endure, regardless of what Corden and Jones decide next. Gavin & Stacey: The Finale will undoubtedly capture the hearts of fans once more as they gather to watch one last tale of love, laughter, and friendship.
