The highly acclaimed British legal drama series, The Split, has come to a poignant end with its two-part special, The Split: Barcelona, airing on BBC One on December 29 and 30, 2024. The special, set against the stunning backdrop of Barcelona, saw the beloved Defoe family returning to screens after a two-year hiatus, gathering for the wedding of Hannah and Nathan’s daughter, Liv.
Created by Abi Morgan, The Split has captivated audiences since it first premiered on BBC One in April 2018. The series intricately explores the themes of modern marriage and the challenges of divorce, all through the lens of the Defoe family, who navigate their personal and professional lives as divorce lawyers. Praised for its deep examination of gender politics and family tensions, it has secured a dedicated following during its initial run.
The two-part special picks up two years after the conclusion of season three, bringing viewers back to the Defoes, who are faced with unresolved issues and family secrets. While the idyllic setting of Catalonia is beautiful, the atmosphere quickly shifts as tensions rise and several secrets threaten the joyful event. For Hannah, played by the talented Nicola Walker, the wedding forces her to confront her past, especially as her ex-partner, Archie, unexpectedly appears at the ceremony. This moment encapsulates the emotional weight of the special, highlighting the precariousness of family relationships and personal growth.
The response from fans has been overwhelming, filled with praise for the series' return but also tinged with disappointment at the announcement of no plans for a fourth season. Many viewers took to social media to express their heartfelt sentiments: “Really loved #thesplit #thesplitbarcelona it was brilliant but... my one complaint is it wasn’t long enough. Another series please!” This feedback indicates the series' impact and the longing it has sparked for more episodes.
Abi Morgan, the creator of The Split, had initially envisioned the series as limited to three seasons, with each season exploring different stages of the relationships depicted. "It was always built around the condition of three series where you would observe a marriage come under pressure ... as this couple go through a divorce,” Morgan stated, reflecting on the development of her characters and the storytelling arc she aimed to achieve.
Despite the heartfelt conclusion provided by the Barcelona special, many fans are still hoping for more from the Defoes. The show succeeded beautifully, offering closure and strong character arcs, yet it left audiences wanting more. The mixed emotions following the finale have fueled discussions about potential spin-offs, including The Split-Up, which was announced earlier this year. Unfortunately, production for this spin-off halted due to creative disagreements, leaving fans eager for resolution surrounding this new project.
Although there are no plans for another season, The Split: Barcelona can be streamed on BBC iPlayer, allowing fans to relive the bittersweet conclusion of this impactful series. The finale not only wraps up the Defoe family's narrative but also serves as a reflection on the series' significant examination of marriage and divorce.
While the future remains uncertain, the legacy of The Split will continue to resonate with viewers, as it has brought to life the intricacies of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the often tumultuous nature of love. The show's exploration of modern relationships has left its mark on British television and provided much food for thought for its audience.
Fans of the drama are encouraged to share their thoughts on the series. What did they think of the Barcelona special? Did it provide the closure they were hoping for, or do they long for more stories from the Defoe family? The conversation around The Split: Barcelona and its characters continues, keeping the spirit of the show alive as viewers reflect on the emotions it evoked.