The iconic BBC sitcom Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps appears poised for a major television comeback, fifteen years after the beloved series originally concluded its broadcast run. This nostalgic noughties favourite, which launched the careers of stars including Sheridan Smith, Will Mellor, and Ralf Little, represents the latest classic show from that era to be earmarked for a contemporary revival.
A Decade-Long Legacy and Sudden End
The programme originally enjoyed a successful ten-year tenure on our screens, running consistently from its debut in 2001 until BBC executives made the decision to axe the series in 2011. The show developed a dedicated cult following during its original broadcast, with its unique blend of humour focusing on the lives, relationships, and misadventures of five young friends navigating adulthood in northern England.
Rights Acquisition Paves the Way
The significant development enabling this potential revival comes directly from the show's creator, Susan Nickson, who has successfully negotiated and obtained the full rights to the series from the BBC. This crucial legal step effectively liberates the programme from the corporation's control, allowing Nickson and her team to pitch the revived concept to alternative broadcasters and streaming platforms.
A television industry insider provided context to this strategic move, stating: 'Securing the rights is absolutely fundamental as it creates the opportunity to present the show elsewhere. The sitcom's content, with its emphasis on sexual themes and alcohol-fuelled scenarios, doesn't align with the contemporary direction and editorial priorities of what many perceive as today's more socially conscious BBC.'
Cast Enthusiasm and Previous Attempts
The original cast members have expressed considerable enthusiasm about returning to their iconic roles. Actor Will Mellor, who portrayed Gaz Wilkinson throughout the series' original run, has been particularly vocal about his desire to see the show revived. Mellor previously revealed to the Daily Mail that a complete script for a new series had already been drafted by creator Susan Nickson, tentatively titled 'Two Pints Last Orders.'
Mellor elaborated on the proposed revival concept, explaining: 'The draft envisioned a final series exploring where the characters are now. For instance, Johnny wouldn't be deceased but rather on the run from a loan shark. It was designed as a proper conclusion for the fans.' Despite this prepared material and clear audience demand evidenced through strong repeat viewing figures on BBC Three, the corporation declined to commission the new series.
Financial Realities and Fan Considerations
Mellor has openly discussed the practical challenges surrounding a potential independent revival. While expressing willingness to help fund production personally alongside co-star Ralf Little, he acknowledged the ethical dilemma this would create: 'We could theoretically finance it ourselves and release it via download, but that would require fans to pay during a severe financial crisis. That feels fundamentally wrong given their longstanding support. The appropriate solution is for a channel or platform to properly commission it.'
The insider further confirmed the cast's current position, noting: 'The ensemble are genuinely eager to participate and remain hopeful that concrete developments could materialise within this calendar year.'
Cultural Impact and Future Prospects
First airing on BBC Two, Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps quickly established itself as a defining sitcom of its generation, capturing the spirit of early-2000s Britain with its frank portrayal of friendship, romantic entanglements, and the humorous struggles of young adulthood. Its potential return signifies a growing trend of revisiting and revitalising successful properties from that period, tapping into both nostalgia and discovering new audiences.
With the rights now secured and key creative figures actively pursuing options, the path appears clearer than ever for this beloved series to finally pull another pint for its loyal fanbase. The coming months will determine whether a broadcaster or streaming service will raise a glass to this revival opportunity.
