Written by James Corden and Ruth Jones, Gavin & Stacey follows the life of two families living in Billericay and Barry. The show, featuring renowned characters like Mathew Horne and Joanna Page, was produced by Baby Cow Productions for BBC Wales. It was widely received, with big names like the Guardian applauding its second series.
Gavin & Stacey’s Appeals to Many
Gavin & Stacey’s widespread adoption could be attributed to its engaging plots and themes such as gambling, family, marriage, etc. For example, in the sixth episode of the second series, Stacey visits a bingo venue while Smithy plans a boys’ night out. Thanks to the internet’s popularity and the rise of online gaming platforms, fans can access similar bingo experiences conveniently. This allows them to participate in their favourite online bingo on mobile at any time from any location.
In 2019, the show succeeded tremendously, as the Christmas Day special garnered more than 17 million views. Only sporting events received such massive viewership in the UK, making the show the most viewed non-sporting event since 2010. BBC added that the programme received over 4.4 million requests on iPlayer.
Ruth Jones and I have been keeping this secret for a while… We’re excited to share it with you. See you on Christmas Day @BBCOne #GavinandStacey pic.twitter.com/gTRa3cp90t
— James Corden (@JKCorden) May 28, 2019
More Applauses for the Show
Other key figures like Deborah Orr, who was once a British Journalist for the Guardian, lauded the show’s progressive and consistent flow. By the end of the second series, its viewership had tripled. Gavin & Stacey’s mainstream acceptance contributed to it being listed as the 17th greatest British Sitcom of all time by Radio Times.
In 2008, Gavin and Stacey won two remarkable awards, the British Comedy Award and the British Academy Television Award. During the previous year, the show won the British Comedy Awards under the Best New British TV Comedy, with James Corden and Ruth Jones leading the Best Male and Female Comedy Newcomer categories.
2020 was also a great year for the show as it won the Best Comedy Award and Impact Award at the National Television Award. The show’s popularity triggered international remakes and adaptations, but they haven’t been as successful as the original.
How it All Began
James Corden conceived the show’s idea at a wedding reception and later shared it with Ruth Jones, with whom he had interacted while filming an ITV drama. After presenting the idea to BBC as a one-off play, It’s My Day, they were required to expand it to a series.
Cardiff, in Barry and its surrounding locations, including Sully and Penarth, were the primary filming locations. The scenic appearances of Barry in the show triggered many audiences to visit the place, contributing to Barry’s tourism sector. Leicester Square in London is also featured in the show’s opening episode, filmed in 2006.
Parting Words
Gavin & Stacey stands as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and genuine human connection. Through its portrayal of ordinary lives and relationships, the show has left an indelible mark on British television and popular culture. With its blend of humour and unforgettable characters, Gavin & Stacey continues to captivate audiences worldwide.