I’m a lifelong Gavin and Stacey fan and dreading the Christmas special

Oh! What's happening? It's a Christmas Day finale of Gavin and Stacey, that's what!

As someone who has loved Gavin and Stacey for a long time, you might expect that I would be super excited. I mean, who wouldn’t want to journey to Barry Island and celebrate Christmas Day with the Shipman and West families? However, let me explain my thoughts.

I have a feeling that I could end up feeling let down.

Five years ago, Nessa, portrayed by Ruth Jones, surprised everyone by proposing to Smithy (James Corden) during the final Christmas special of Gavin and Stacey. This memorable moment left viewers with one of the most thrilling cliffhangers in recent television history.

We never got to hear Smithy's response, but it wasn't important. The idea of creating another show seems to come across as unplanned or a second thought.

I don't want a tidy, cheerful conclusion because that doesn't fit the essence of Ness and Smithy. They simply aren't meant to end up together—except when they've enjoyed a few too many drinks.

Honestly, I have no interest in a Christmas special for 2024.

In 2007, Gavin and Stacey captured my affection with their gradual unfolding plots, a funny group of characters, and clever little jokes sprinkled throughout.

I was in the same phase of life as they were, going out on casual dates like Stace and discussing everything with my own version of Ness. I completely adored Pam and Mick’s amusing home life, especially Uncle Bryn, who is undeniably one of the funniest characters of our time.

Even today, whenever I'm having a rough day, I find myself watching Smithy's perfect rendition of the American Boy rap again.

The initial episodes were heartfelt and didn’t depend heavily on action. They were intentionally subtle, created with a sense of purity since writers James Corden and Ruth Jones had no idea that the show would turn into a massive phenomenon filled with catchphrases.

The show blended references to serial killers, Nessa's famous former partners (including Russell Brand and John Prescott), and a cheeky moment involving a toilet brush. It served as a charming snapshot of its time, embracing humor without taking things too seriously—something that wouldn't be possible to create in today's climate.

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It’s evident that it wasn’t meant to be a standout feature for BBC One’s Christmas Day lineup; however, we ended up with the 2019 Christmas special anyway, and honestly, I wish we hadn’t.

On Christmas Day 2019, there was a completely absurd plot featuring Dawn, Pete, and a joint that they later passed to Pam and Mick. Am I the only one who felt uncomfortable watching them awkwardly dance around the living room to "Dreadlock Holiday"? And certainly not in a fun way.

Another major misstep was adding a flat new character, Smithy’s prissy girlfriend Sonia, who wouldn’t even sleep on an air mattress. This led to an uncomfortable and tedious plotline that distracted us from the characters we actually cared about, as Smithy spent Christmas Day trying to keep her happy.

While the 2019 Christmas special brought joy to many, it didn't quite capture the essence that made the original series so special.

Watching Mathew Horne and Joanna Page in Gavin and Stacey during their mid-20s was a delightful experience, and every time I catch another rerun, it brings back memories of those wonderful early 2000s. However, the idea of seeing them work to revive the spark in a 17-year marriage doesn't interest me at all—it just seems too predictable.

However, with entire families coming together to watch TV on Christmas Day, Jones and Corden undoubtedly understand the need to provide a storyline packed with surprises and excitement to ensure that audiences continue discussing the show well into the new year.

This approach isn't what created the charm of Gavin and Stacey.

And that's the issue: the pressure is overwhelming, resulting in more obvious jokes instead of the subtle humor they had in 2007. Those earlier episodes, intricately crafted and enveloped in Nessa's pipe smoke, often had their funniest moments revealed only upon a second or third viewing.

At that time, Corden and Matthew Horne were just about to become famous, but how will Corden portray Smithy now that he has skyrocketed to success in the United States?

The program was at its neatest when it aired on BBC Three, where the subtle laughs didn't come from the main couple, but from the quirky pair of Smithy and Nessa, who slurped corn on the cob.

Throughout the series, there were numerous subtle hints about Uncle Bryn's fishing trip. It nearly came to light during the Christmas special in 2019, but whatever happened between him and Jase on that chilly, enigmatic night must stay a secret.

Suggesting that "it was extremely dark, in every possible way," without providing the specifics is much more humorous.

Sharp observation played a crucial role, and the more experienced cast members, such as Alison Steadman and Sheridan Smith, willingly stepped aside throughout the series to allow others to take the spotlight. Their willingness to share the stage provided newcomers with invaluable opportunities, all while ensuring that the characters were well taken care of.

One of the best aspects of the characters is how easily recognizable they are, as they feel very relatable and genuine. From the friendship group with their quirky and puzzling nicknames (like Dirtbox, Deano, and Fingers) to Pam-laaar’s fascination with Camilla Parker Bowles and her phrase "the drama, Mick!"—these traits capture the essence of real life.

In the past, earlier seasons focused on subtlety and unexpressed thoughts (who could forget Owain Hughes saying, ‘…and just to clarify, no I don’t’), but now Jones and Corden likely realize they need to go all out for a Christmas special. Unfortunately, this approach takes away some of the show's original charm.

I'm really hoping the finale won't be as overhyped as Dick Powell's bread sauce. Still, I'll be settling in to watch it with a Mint Baileys, feeling quite anxious. Ever since the show was announced, there have been all sorts of rumors about different storylines floating around.

Will there be one or more funerals? Is Nessa planning to give everyone the second tap this year to finish off her 2019 gift (the first tap)? And will she and Smithy get married?

Honestly, I'd prefer they don’t, but regardless, I have a request for James Corden and Ruth Jones: please maintain their relationship as a complex, relatable will-they-won’t-they storyline, instead of giving in to the audience’s desire for a tidy, happy conclusion.

I mean no offense, but honestly, when all is considered, diehard fans really don’t anticipate a typical Christmas special from their favorite show.

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