Fans of the beloved BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey have been delivered a crushing blow, as co-creator and star Ruth Jones has publicly quashed any hope of a fifth series.
The declaration comes directly contrary to recent comments made by her fellow cast member, Larry Lamb, who plays Mick Shipman. Lamb had fuelled fan excitement by stating he was "sure" the show would make a comeback.
‘No Plans Whatsoever’ Says Jones
Setting the record straight, Ruth Jones, who plays the iconic Nessa, stated unequivocally to The Mirror: "There are no plans for more Gavin & Stacey." She expressed a touch of bewilderment at her co-star's optimism, adding, "I don't know what Larry is talking about."
This isn't the first time Jones has had to manage expectations. She emphasised that this has been her consistent message, saying, "I always say this. There are no plans whatsoever."
A History of Teasing a Return
The will-they-won't-they saga surrounding the show's return has been a constant source of speculation since the last Christmas special aired in 2019, which shattered BBC viewing records with an audience of over 18 million.
Larry Lamb's recent interview had sent rumours into overdrive. He confidently told The Sun: "I'm sure it will come back. I'm sure there will be another one."> He even suggested the creators, Jones and James Corden, were likely "thinking about it now."
This hope was further echoed by Melanie Walters, who plays Gwen West, Stacey's mother. She previously told fans she was "hoping and praying" for another special and believed the entire cast would be "up for it."
The Nation Holds Its Breath
The bittersweet finale of the 2019 special left the nation on a cliffhanger, with Nessa famously proposing to Smithy (James Corden). The unresolved question of his answer has haunted fans for years.
Despite the overwhelming demand from the British public, it appears the final decision rests solely in the hands of Jones and Corden. For now, the message from Jones is definitive: the iconic characters from Barry and Billericay will remain in hiatus.
