Sherrie Hewson Addresses Benidorm Comeback
Sherrie Hewson, best known for playing Solana Hotel manager Joyce Temple-Savage across six series of ITV's hit sitcom Benidorm, has spoken out about the possibility of the show returning. The actress admitted that the series would need to change in today's 'woke' world if it ever came back to screens.
The show, which followed the adventures of British tourists at an all-inclusive resort in Benidorm, wrapped up in 2018 after 10 series and 74 episodes. Despite ending, it remains a fan favourite, with viewers still streaming it on ITVX.
What Would a Return Look Like?
Speaking to Zingo Bingo, Hewson revealed that creator Derren Litten would likely bring in new characters. 'I think Derren Litten would bring in other people, different acts in the Neptune's bar, different singers, and different families. It would be the same kind of thing, but you have to move on, don't you?' she said.
She acknowledged that some original cast members could not return due to deaths, adding, 'You'd have to move on and bring in new characters, which is actually quite exciting. Joyce would actually have to vet them all - that would be brilliant.'
Navigating a 'Woke' World
The former Coronation Street star commented on the need for sensitivity: 'I mean with woke, everybody has to watch their language, shall I say. I think we know that. There was never anybody I know in this world who was ever offended by Benidorm. There was nothing offensive about it.'
She added that if the show returned, it would likely stay true to its roots: 'If it ever did come back, I can't see what they could do to make it different. It would be the same, but it would have new people. Maybe that would move on to a different level.'
Why Benidorm Endures
Hewson attributed the show's lasting popularity to Derren Litten's writing and casting. 'It's the writing. Derren Litten knows how to write, for women in particular. I think that's quite rare. He also casts very well. All those characters were cast, like Tim Healy as Les, every character was cast beautifully.'
She noted that viewers often tell her they recognise characters in their own lives: 'People say to me, “I've got an auntie just like Joyce Temple Savage, or my mother's just like Joyce.” Viewers can relate to all the characters. Everybody loves it because apart from anything else, it's so funny. The music makes me smile to this day.'
Benidorm boasted an impressive cast including Johnny Vegas (Geoff Maltby), Jake Canuso (Mateo), and Steve Pemberton (Mick Garvey). The series is available to stream on ITVX.
