Fans of British television have been treated to more than one surprise this year, but perhaps none more unexpected than the new direction taken by Mathew Horne, the beloved actor best known for his portrayal of Gavin Shipman in the BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey. After the curtain fell on the much-anticipated final episode of the series in December 2024, Horne, now 46, has embarked on a multifaceted career journey that is already capturing the imagination of his devoted followers.
According to Mirror, the last chapter of Gavin & Stacey aired on Christmas Day 2024, drawing a staggering average audience of 12.3 million viewers. BBC’s own viewership figures confirmed it as the highest-rated Christmas Day broadcast since 2008. The episode served as an emotional farewell, finally giving fans the resolution they’d long hoped for—Smithy and Nessa’s happy ending. The response was overwhelming, with many fans expressing on social media that they "couldn’t believe" the show was truly over. Yet, as the credits rolled, few could have predicted the next steps for its leading man.
Just days after the special’s broadcast, Horne revealed a career move that caught everyone off guard. Stepping away from the familiar worlds of Billericay and Barry, he swapped scripts for turntables, headlining a major indie party at London’s Electric Ballroom in Camden on New Year’s Eve. As reported by Mirror, this DJ gig marked his first foray into music entertainment, and it wasn’t just a one-off: Horne has announced more DJ performances for early 2025, signaling a serious commitment to his new craft.
But acting remains close to Horne’s heart. He has continued to appear in diverse roles across television and theatre. Most recently, he took to the stage in London’s West End, starring in a production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. This return to theatre is hardly surprising for fans familiar with his versatile resume, which includes acclaimed appearances in Bad Education, Drunk History, and The Nan Movie. Horne also starred in The Catherine Tate Show and the sketch comedy Horne & Corden, the latter alongside Gavin & Stacey co-creator James Corden—a partnership that has delighted audiences for years.
Now, in another move sure to delight fans, Horne is set to make a rare public appearance at the MCM Birmingham Comic Con, taking place at the NEC from November 28 to 30, 2025. According to a press release from ReedPop dated August 27, Horne will be attending only on November 29 and 30. He’ll participate in a panel on Saturday, November 29 at 11:30am on the Main Stage, where he’ll discuss his time on the hit BBC sitcoms. For those eager for a more personal encounter, photo opportunities and autograph sessions will also be available throughout his two-day appearance.
It’s been a while since Horne has had the chance to interact with his fans in person, and the excitement is palpable. Many fans have taken to social media to share their anticipation, with comments ranging from “I can’t believe it” to “This is the reunion we never knew we needed!” The Comic Con event promises to be a highlight for attendees, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the shows that have become staples of British pop culture.
Of course, the end of Gavin & Stacey has led to inevitable speculation about the future of the franchise. While the 2024 special was billed as the final chapter, the show’s immense popularity has left the door slightly ajar for possible spin-offs. As Mirror reports, an insider revealed, “James [Corden] and Ruth [Jones] are adamant this is the last of Gavin & Stacey. But, when a programme achieves such results, execs will always hope for more. At the end of the day, ratings talk and it would be madness to close the door on such a hit forever when fans loved it so much.”
Among the ideas reportedly floated at the BBC is a spin-off centered on the characters Pete and Dawn. These two were always a bit more separate from the main group, and some believe a new universe could be developed that doesn’t require the involvement of the core cast—potentially allowing Corden and Jones to take a step back while still keeping fans engaged. For now, though, both creators have insisted that the 2024 special was the definitive end for the main series, leaving fans to wonder if Horne will ever return to his iconic role.
In the meantime, Horne seems content to explore new creative avenues. His DJ career is off to a flying start, with his New Year’s Eve set in Camden drawing a lively crowd. Those who attended described the atmosphere as “electric,” with Horne expertly blending indie anthems and crowd-pleasers, proving that his talents extend well beyond acting. He’s also expressed a renewed passion for theatre, with his recent performance in The Tempest earning positive reviews and reminding audiences of his range as a performer.
For fans hoping to see Horne in person, the upcoming MCM Birmingham Comic Con is shaping up to be the perfect opportunity. According to ReedPop, attendees can look forward to not just the panel discussion but also the chance to meet Horne, snap a photo, and walk away with a signed memento. The event is expected to draw large crowds, especially given Horne’s enduring popularity and the ongoing affection for Gavin & Stacey.
The broader landscape of British television is always evolving, but few stories have captured the public’s imagination like that of Gavin & Stacey and its cast. Horne’s willingness to embrace new challenges—whether spinning records in a packed club or treading the boards of the West End—demonstrates a creative spirit that refuses to be pigeonholed. As Comic Con approaches, fans are left to ponder: will this be a brief detour before a return to TV, or the start of an entirely new chapter?
Whatever comes next, Mathew Horne’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of reinvention and the unbreakable bond between performers and their audiences. For now, all eyes are on Birmingham—and the dance floor.
