Footballers' Wives: The Iconic Noughties Drama Now Free to Stream
All five series of the iconic noughties television phenomenon Footballers' Wives are now available to stream for free on ITVX, sparking a wave of nostalgia and renewed interest among fans. The drama, which originally aired from 2002 to 2006, has achieved cult status for its explosive storylines and memorable characters.
A Star-Studded Cast and Cult Following
Inspired by real-life WAG Shelley Webb's book, Footballers' Wives Tell Their Tales, the TV adaptation quickly became a cultural touchstone. The series chronicled the lives of various footballers and their partners as they navigated fame, controversy, and personal dramas both on and off the field. Notably, the programme featured cameo appearances from high-profile personalities including:
- Katie Price
- Tara Palmer-Tomkinson
- Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan
- Peter Stringfellow
- Calum Best
- Peter Andre
Two decades since its debut, enthusiasts have taken to social media to urge viewers to binge-watch the drama, which centres around the players and management of the fictional Premier League side Earl's Park FC.
Fan Reactions and Enduring Appeal
Devotees of the show have been vocal in their praise, highlighting its unique blend of entertainment and over-the-top storytelling. One fan wrote: "Footballers Wives is one of the best television dramas to come out of the UK. I just love it." Another commented: "Classic show from the 2000s. Outrageous plots and characters that made for unmissable TV every week."
A third viewer declared: "I absolutely love Footballers' Wives! It may have over the top characters and storylines but that's why everyone loves it." A fourth concurred: "Sex, glamour, fame, top notch storylines yet so unreal but we can't help loving it. The show has it all."
The series originally focused on three contrasting couples but evolved from the third series onwards to centre on an intricate love triangle involving Tanya Turner (Zöe Lucker), Amber Gates (Laila Rouass), and Conrad Gates (Ben Price).
Streaming History and Revival Discussions
Since its cancellation, Footballers' Wives has garnered a devoted following, first launching on BritBox in 2021 before arriving on ITVX two years later in 2023. This availability has reignited interest in the show, with fans celebrating its return to the streaming landscape.
In a recent development, Gary Lucy, who portrayed Kyle Pascoe in the series, revealed that discussions are underway for a potential revival. The former Hollyoaks star told The Sun: "We're trying to bring it back but it might be in a slightly different format. I can't say too much about it."
He added: "But I won't be a footballer in it, I'm too old for that. But in some capacity, yes I'll be in it, definitely. We had a great time filming it, it was a lot of fun. Footballers used to come up and say they watched the show, but not so much now. I mean, it was a long time ago."
All episodes of Footballers' Wives are currently available to stream on ITVX, offering both longtime fans and new viewers the chance to experience this quintessential piece of British television history.
