Cold Feet Stars Push for Christmas Comeback Nearly Three Decades After Debut
The beloved cast of ITV's hit relationship drama Cold Feet has publicly urged television executives to consider bringing the show back, specifically proposing a Christmas special as a potential testing ground for a full revival. Speaking exclusively during a reunion podcast recording, stars including James Nesbitt, Fay Ripley, and John Thomson expressed their enthusiasm and revealed that fan demand for more episodes remains remarkably strong.
Enduring Fan Appetite Sparks Revival Talks
James Nesbitt, 61, who played Adam Williams in the series, emphasized the persistent interest from viewers, stating, "I am constantly stopped and asked when Cold Feet is coming back. That appetite never goes away." The drama originally aired from 1997 to 2003 before enjoying a successful revival in 2016, with its final series concluding in 2020. Despite this hiatus, the cast believes the show's timeless appeal warrants another return.
Fay Ripley, 60, who portrayed Jenny Gifford, highlighted the positive audience response during the 2016 revival, noting, "The very fact people responded in the way they did suggests there's no reason why it shouldn't come back. When the show returned after all those years it reminded everyone how much fun it was." Her comments underscore the show's lasting impact and the potential for future success.
Christmas Special Proposed as Testing Ground
John Thomson, who starred as Pete Gifford, pointed to the success of other series like Gavin & Stacey in reviving with special episodes. He suggested, "After the success of Gavin & Stacey bringing back their Christmas special, why not test the water with a Cold Feet Christmas special?" This idea reflects a strategic approach to gauge current viewer interest without committing to a full series immediately.
The cast also reflected on the unique chemistry that contributed to the show's original success. Nesbitt recalled, "What I remember most is that it was fun. When we first got together it was just magic — and that translated to the audience." This bond has endured over the years, with Ripley adding, "We know each other really well. Proper friends. You don't have to see each other all the time to pick up exactly where you left off."
Cross-Generational Appeal and Lasting Legacy
Remarkably, Cold Feet continues to attract new audiences, with the cast revealing that younger viewers are discovering the series more than 25 years after its debut. This cross-generational appeal highlights the show's relevance and enduring place in popular culture. Nesbitt summarized this sentiment, telling podcast host Gaby Roslin, "People still love it and still talk about it. That's very special."
The reunion podcast episode, part of Reasons To Be Joyful with Gaby Roslin, provided a platform for these discussions, further fueling speculation about a potential return. As the cast advocates for a Christmas special, fans and industry observers alike are watching closely to see if ITV will heed their call and revive this cherished drama for a new chapter.
