Emotional Farewell as ‘Gavin and Stacey’ Wraps Final Episode

“Gavin and Stacey” star Alison Steadman has revealed that filming the final scenes of the beloved sitcom left the cast emotional, with “90% of us in tears.” Speaking to BBC News, Steadman, who portrays Gavin’s mother Pam, expressed how the cast had been apprehensive about the series’ conclusion. “We’ve had a great five weeks, we only finished on Monday night,” she stated, acknowledging the mixed emotions of wrapping up the show.

The show’s co-creators, James Corden and Ruth Jones, confirmed in May that “Gavin and Stacey” would return for a final episode, scheduled to air on Christmas Day. The emotional finale was shot across various locations in the Vale of Glamorgan, with filming having commenced in September. Fans gathered during the shoot to catch a glimpse of the stars, who have become synonymous with the comedic series.

The return of “Gavin and Stacey” for a festive episode in 2019 left fans on a cliffhanger when Ruth Jones’ character, Nessa, proposed to James Corden’s character, Smithy. That particular episode became the biggest festive special in a decade, attracting an average viewership of 11.6 million, and won the impact award at the 2020 National Television Awards.

As the last scenes were filmed, Alison Steadman fondly recalled the show’s beginnings, praising the writing talents of Corden and Jones. “James and Ruth together, they are amazing, their scripts, so witty and funny,” she reminisced, noting her immediate enthusiasm for the script upon first reading it.

Fans and cast alike were reflective about the show’s impact and its longevity. Larry Lamb, who plays Mick, met with enthusiastic fans after the final shoot at a location doubling as Pam and Mick’s Essex home, located in Dinas Powys. The setting has become iconic among “Gavin and Stacey” fans, highlighting the series’ cultural significance beyond its fictional narrative.

Fans like 61-year-old Karen Ash from Cwmbran expressed their devotion, having visited every filming site, while 22-year-old Owain Cleese from Barry emphasized how the show has put Barry on the map. The series, initially aired from 2007 to 2010, follows the lives of young couple Gavin and Stacey, challenging geographical and familial boundaries.

The anticipation for the final episode remains high, with fans speculating on its outcome. “I think I might have seen a spoiler – but I’m not prepared to say,” mused Karen Ash, keeping her predictions under wraps. Meanwhile, the BBC has solemnly marked the end of an era with a social media post stating, “And that’s a wrap… for the last time ever.”