BBC/Toffee International Ltd./Tom JacksonThe Gavin and Stacey finale attracted an average of 12.3 million TV viewers – the largest Christmas Day audience in more than a decade, overnight data shows.
The new Wallace and Gromit film also attracted a large audience on BBC One, with more than 9 million viewers tuning in to watch the animated duo’s latest adventure.
Nearly 7 million people watched the King’s Christmas message on the BBC, ITV and Sky News.
All figures are based on “overnight” TV ratings – which do not include viewers who watch Christmas specials on catch-up services during the rest of the festive period.
The finale of Gavin and Stacey was the most watched show on Christmas Day since 2008.
An average of 14.3 million viewers tuned in to watch Wallace and Gromit in A Matter Of Loaf And Death that year.
This year’s new Gavin and Stacey episode followed on from an incredible cliffhanger which saw Nessa, played by Ruth Jones, get down on one knee in front of Smithy, played by James Corden, and ask him to marry her.
Millions of viewers had been left wondering if he said yes since the previous Christmas special in 2019.
The hit BBC sitcom attracted huge viewing numbers that year, with 11.6 million people watching the episode on Christmas Day.
BBC/Aardman Animations/Richard Davies/Stuart CollisCharlotte Moore, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, said Jones and Corden created a “magical finale that fans will treasure forever.”
“Their exquisitely written comedy creation is a show all about family, love and joy and it proved to be the unmissable TV event of the year,” she added.
This year’s viewing figures were a success for the BBC – it was the first time that all 10 most watched Christmas Day shows were screened on BBC One.
Despite well-loved Coronation Street character Gail Platt bidding farewell after 50 years, the ITV soap failed to make the top 10, attracting 2.41 million viewers in the overnight ratings.
However, the programme had been released on ITVX for viewers who wanted to watch the episode earlier in the day, which is likely to have impacted numbers.
BBC soap EastEnders split its Christmas Day into two episodes, recording more than 8 million viewers and reaching fifth and eighth in the ratings list.
Perennial favourite Call the Midwife came in fourth place.
Doctor Who, Strictly Come Dancing’s festive edition, the animated film Tiddler and a special of the Weakest Link also featured in the top 10.
Top 10 most watched Christmas Day TV shows
- Gavin & Stacey 12.32m
- Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl 9.38m
- The King (BBC, ITV, BBC News and Sky News) 6.82m (not including other channels)
- Call the Midwife 4.42m
- EastEnders 4.39m
- Doctor Who 4.11m
- Strictly Come Dancing 4.05m
- EastEnders 3.98m
- Tiddler 3.23m
- The Weakest Link 3.05m
Source: BARB overnight figures
The highly anticipated finale of Gavin and Stacey has officially topped the ratings, drawing in millions of viewers across the country. Fans of the hit comedy series were glued to their screens as they watched the beloved characters say their goodbyes in a heartwarming and emotional conclusion.
The finale, which aired on Christmas Day, delivered a satisfying and nostalgic ending that left fans feeling both satisfied and sad to say goodbye to their favorite characters. The show’s creators, Ruth Jones and James Corden, did not disappoint with the final episode, delivering a perfect blend of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments.
Gavin and Stacey has been a beloved show since it first premiered in 2007, and its finale has proven to be no exception. With its witty writing, lovable characters, and relatable storylines, it’s no wonder that the show has captured the hearts of so many viewers.
As the credits rolled on the final episode, fans took to social media to express their love and appreciation for Gavin and Stacey, with many declaring it one of the best finales they’ve ever seen. The show’s success is a testament to the talent of its creators and the dedication of its fans, who have stuck with the show for over a decade.
While it’s always bittersweet to say goodbye to a beloved show, fans can take comfort in the fact that Gavin and Stacey will always hold a special place in their hearts. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll be lucky enough to see the gang back together for a reunion special. Until then, we’ll always have the memories of the hilarious and heartwarming moments that Gavin and Stacey brought us over the years.
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