Fans of the beloved BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey are gearing up for a nostalgic Christmas Day as the iconic show returns for its much-anticipated final episode. This special installment will not only answer long-standing questions surrounding the show's characters—specifically whether Nessa (Ruth Jones) and Smithy (James Corden) have finally tied the knot—but also allow viewers to reconnect with the Shipman and West families, who have been absent from screens since the Christmas special of 2019.
Returning to reprise their roles are the sitcom’s cherished characters, including Neil the Baby, son of Nessa and Smithy, played by Oscar Hartland. Since taking on the role at just eight months old, Hartland has grown up with the show, now at 17 years old and set to grace screens once more for this final farewell.
While Hartland’s portrayal of Neil has made him well-known, his life extends beyond acting. He is also carving out a path as a musician, being the co-frontman and guitarist for the South Wales band Redwood City. The teen also showcased his talent on The Voice Kids earlier this year, demonstrating the versatility of his artistic abilities.
Reflecting on his unique experience of growing up with fame, Hartland shared with The Sun, "I grew up knowing I was Neil The Baby, but it was after the Christmas special when my life literally turned around. I went from a kid who was in a show when he was a baby to a kid on TV – even going to the supermarket was mad." His words encapsulate the whirlwind of emotions and experiences he has undergone since first stepping onto the set of Gavin & Stacey.
The official teaser for the finale generates excitement, teasing, "It’s five years since we left Nessa down on one knee declaring her love for Smithy and asking him to marry her. And a lot has happened in those five years." By delving back five years, the finale promises to bring viewers up to speed with what the characters have endured since their last appearance.
Continuing the teaser, it humorously outlines the activities of various characters: "Over in Barry, Bryn’s packing the Picasso for a trip to Essex; Stacey and Gavin are seeking new ways to spice up their seventeen-year marriage, and Gwen is behaving most strangely. Nessa’s started a new business venture, and Neil the Baby’s about to begin an apprenticeship with his dad." This snapshot highlights the character growth and inevitable comedic entanglements audiences can expect.
Aside from Neil and his on-screen antics, the narrative promises to tackle the efforts of Pam, who is feeling the pressure of playing hostess, compounded by her newly retired husband Mick, whose golf practice has migrated from the course to their living room. Further drama surrounds Pete and Dawn’s relationship, ensuring plenty of laughs and emotional moments throughout the finale.
For fans eager to see how these threads come together, Gavin & Stacey: The Finale will air on BBC One and iPlayer at 9 PM on December 25. This Christmas special is not just another episode; it's the culmination of years of character development and storytelling, wrapping up their arcs before potentially bidding farewell to these familiar faces.
The series has managed to capture the hearts of viewers since its debut, igniting nostalgia and excitement with each new episode. With the finale upon us, fans are left pondering what will happen to their beloved characters. Will Nessa and Smithy finally tie the knot? What has Neil been up to during the interlude? This special promises to deliver answers and likely some unexpected surprises.
Fans have eagerly anticipated this concluding chapter, and as Christmas Day approaches, the excitement continues to build. Gavin & Stacey remains not only a landmark of British television but also a cherished part of many viewers’ lives. Whether you're laughing along, reminiscing, or simply enjoying the holiday with family, the return of these beloved characters is sure to spark joy.
Preparing to witness the final developments of Nessa, Smithy, Neil, and the rest of the ensemble, audiences will gather around their screens capable of experiencing yet another memorable moment from the sitcom’s rich history. It remains to be seen what the future holds for the characters and for viewers, but for one last holiday season, Gavin & Stacey will provide the warmth and comic relief it's known for.
