Comedian and BBC Gavin & Stacey co-creator James Corden, 46, became emotional as he reflected on the show’s finale during a behind the scenes documentary.
The beloved BBC sitcom’s final episode dominated the ratings battle on Christmas Day, achieving the highest viewing figures for any non-sporting event in over a decade – raking in 12.3 million viewers.
The beloved sitcom first graced screens in 2007 and finally came to a conclusion over the 2024 festive season.
Appearing on Gavin & Stacey: A Fond Farewell, show creators and writers Corden and Ruth Jones, 58,glowed about the show’s 18-year journey.
During the emotional finale, show mainstay’s Smithy and Nessa, played by Corden and Jones respectively, decided to get together after a series-long will they/won’t they romance.
Jones explained: “We know that there’s this connection, from day one when she handed him the pizza, and this love/hate relationship that produced a child is finally getting this pay-off. Which I think is what everybody wants.”
Corden (left) and Jones (right) as Smithy and Nessa
BBC
Reflecting on the pair finally tying the knot, she thought it was reminiscent of the core themes of the show which followed the romance of the titular Gavin and Stacey.
Corden commented that the central character’s relationship was a “traditional love story” but conceded their story was one: “that is almost always told.”
The former Late Late Show host became emotional as he praised the eventual coming together of his and Jones’ characters in the finale.
“Really, you don’t see people that look like us fall in love on TV very often. You don’t. These stories never get told, ever,” he said.
Corden became emotional as he said: “You don’t see people that look like us fall in love on TV very often.”
BBC
His voice quivering, the 46-year-old spoke up in defence of characters who don’t fit with conventional beauty standards.
Corden argued characters like his and Jones’ are often treated like: “Their love isn’t real.”
He continued, arguing previous depictions lacked “depth”.
“They’re not great in bed and they don’t have amazing sex and all those things. And these two characters do,” the writer enthused.
“I think it just holds up a mirror to what lots of people feel all the time,” Corden concluded.
Following the finale’s spectacular reception, Corden shared his delight on social media accompanied by a montage of behind-the-scenes images.
The beloved show’s finale received a huge number of views over Christmas
BBC
He captioned the post: “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.” (sic)
The BBC’s Chief Content Officer, Charlotte Moore, also praised the network’s festive line-up as “a showcase for the very best in British storytelling”.
