James Corden, the beloved co-creator of Gavin & Stacey, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the millions of fans who tuned in for the show’s emotional finale, which broke records by securing the highest Christmas Day ratings since 2008. The special, which aired on December 25th, captivated viewers and drew an impressive average audience of 12.3 million, according to overnight data. Corden, who co-created the hit BBC sitcom with Ruth Jones, took to social media to share his thanks and give fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the final episode.
The magic behind Gavin & Stacey has always been its blend of quirky humor, unforgettable characters, and heartwarming moments. As the show wrapped up its final chapter, Corden couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey the show has had. The finale, which aired on Christmas Day, was a monumental event, not just because of its ratings, but also because of the personal connection Corden has with the series and its stars. The photos shared on his social media offered a glimpse into the camaraderie and fun the cast shared behind the scenes, making it clear just how much love went into the making of the final episode.
Behind the Scenes Fun
Among the photos Corden shared was one of himself holding hands with Mathew Horne, who portrays Gavin, in a playful, yet heartwarming shot of the two actors in bed together. It’s a moment that encapsulates the light-hearted spirit of Gavin & Stacey, reminding fans of the enduring friendships that have blossomed over the years both on and off-screen. Corden and Horne’s bond was a highlight of the finale, and this behind-the-scenes shot served as a touching tribute to their long-standing collaboration.
Adding to the fun, the ever-charming Alison Steadman, who plays Pam, and Rob Brydon, known for his role as Uncle Bryn, posed in a hilarious shot from the drunken party scene, which has become a fan favorite over the years. This playful behind-the-scenes photo is a perfect snapshot of the show’s signature blend of silly humor and endearing characters. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s a candid shot of Samuel Anderson (who plays Smithy’s friend Fingers) serenading the crew with his trumpet during a filming break. The sense of camaraderie and light-hearted fun on set is palpable, and it’s clear that the cast was having just as much fun filming the finale as fans had watching it.
Corden’s caption for the post read, “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.” It’s a touching message from the heart, acknowledging the immense support the show received and how much it means to both Corden and Jones. It’s not just a thank you for the ratings, but for the loyal fans who have stuck with the show through the years.
Fans Reactions and Overflowing Love
The outpouring of love from fans and colleagues alike was immediate. Music producer Darren Styles commented, “The perfect ending! BRB (Be right back) while I rewatch every episode for the millionth time.” The enthusiasm was infectious, with Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh chiming in with, “Aw loved it so much.” It’s clear that Gavin & Stacey has left a lasting impression, not only on its viewers but on the entertainment industry as well.
Corden’s emotional farewell to the show was met with an overwhelming response. Many fans and celebrities expressed their gratitude for the show’s memorable moments and how it became a Christmas tradition in their homes. The show’s ability to draw such a large audience for its finale—capturing 12.3 million viewers on Christmas Day—speaks volumes about its cultural impact and enduring appeal.
The Big Wedding Moment
One of the most exciting moments of the Gavin & Stacey finale was the long-awaited resolution to the cliffhanger from the 2019 Christmas special. The finale featured a heartfelt wedding scene, which fans had been eagerly anticipating since the last episode. In the 2019 Christmas special, Nessa (Ruth Jones) proposed to Smithy (James Corden), leaving the viewers on a dramatic cliffhanger. The big question remained: Would Smithy say yes? And would Nessa finally get her happily ever after?
As the final episode unfolded, the tension mounted as Smithy realized that he had to confess his true feelings to Nessa. The scene was filled with anticipation as Smithy, in true Gavin & Stacey fashion, raced to meet Nessa before she headed back to work on the ships. In an emotional twist, Smithy proposed to Nessa, and their love story came full circle with a heartwarming and understated wedding.
The final scene featured a low-key yet beautiful wedding, with Nessa in a black dress, defying traditional wedding norms. It was a perfect reflection of the show’s ability to mix humor with sincerity, offering fans a touching conclusion to a love story that had been years in the making. The montage of the couple finally getting their happily ever after was the perfect way to end a show that had captured the hearts of so many.
The Return of Old Favorites
The finale also marked the return of some beloved characters. Fans were thrilled to see Sonia (Laura Aikman), Smithy’s girlfriend from the 2019 Christmas special, return as a bride-to-be. The dramatic and comedic moments surrounding Sonia’s appearance added an extra layer of excitement to the already tension-filled wedding scene. In a photo shared by Corden, Nessa can be seen in the background, looking somewhat downcast, while Sonia is dressed in a wedding gown. The cast, in a humorous twist, held up masks of Sonia’s face, further adding to the quirky charm of the finale.
This moment was a fitting callback to the drama that unfolded in 2019, when Nessa’s proposal to Smithy left viewers on edge. The 2019 episode had already made waves by pulling in the highest overnight Christmas ratings since 2008, with 11.6 million viewers tuning in. The 2024 finale surpassed those numbers, proving that the show’s appeal has only grown stronger over time.
The Legacy of Gavin & Stacey
Gavin & Stacey first aired in 2007, and its unique blend of humor, relatability, and unforgettable characters quickly made it a fan favorite. The show, which follows the long-distance relationship between Gavin (Mathew Horne) and Stacey (Joanna Page), resonated with audiences for its heartwarming portrayal of relationships, family dynamics, and the complexities of love. Over the years, the show’s cast of characters became iconic, from the lovable but awkward Smithy to the eccentric Uncle Bryn.
The series originally aired from 2007 to 2010, and its return in 2019 for a special Christmas episode generated immense excitement, breaking records with its overnight ratings. Fans had waited for years to see what would happen next in the world of Gavin & Stacey, and the 2019 special did not disappoint. It set the stage for the finale, which would finally answer the lingering questions and give fans the closure they had been waiting for.
Now, with the finale securing even higher ratings, Gavin & Stacey has cemented its place as one of the most beloved British sitcoms of all time. The show’s ability to capture the essence of friendship, love, and family—while never shying away from the humor in life’s awkward moments—has left a lasting legacy.
As fans continue to celebrate the series, Corden’s heartfelt message of gratitude reminds us all of how much the show meant to both the cast and the audience. Gavin & Stacey may have come to a close, but its impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
The show’s journey, from humble beginnings to record-breaking finales, is a testament to the power of storytelling, character-driven humor, and the ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. And as for James Corden and Ruth Jones, their creative partnership will likely be remembered as one of the most successful and endearing in television history.
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