Filming for the final episode of Gavin & Stacey is about to begin, with the special set to air on Christmas Day. This much-anticipated episode follows the 2019 Christmas special, which left over 18 million viewers on a cliffhanger, eagerly awaiting the show’s conclusion.
With stars like James Corden and Ruth Jones heading to Barry Island for the shoot, local businesses are reflecting on the significant impact the sitcom has had on the area. For many, Gavin & Stacey has not only brought fame to Barry Island but has also been a crucial driver of local commerce and tourism.
Jackie Rogers, the owner of Hyper Value gift shop, credits the sitcom for putting Barry Island on the map, noting that her business has seen a substantial increase in trade since the show’s popularity soared.
Visitors flock to Barry Island specifically because of Gavin & Stacey, often expressing a desire to live in the area due to their attachment to the show.
The impact has been so profound that some tourists prioritize visiting Barry Island over other attractions in the region, indicating the deep connection fans have with the sitcom’s setting.
However, the timing of the last Christmas special in 2019, just before the COVID-19 lockdown, meant that local businesses couldn’t immediately capitalize on the show’s renewed popularity.
According to Louis Ross, owner of Barrybados, the lockdown hindered the anticipated boom in tourism. It wasn’t until 2021, when restrictions were lifted, that the area experienced a surge in visitors, many of whom were new fans of the show.
This delayed effect underscores the show’s lasting influence on the local economy and its ability to attract a global audience to Barry Island.
As filming for the final episode approaches, the excitement in Barry is palpable, especially among the town’s businesses and the show’s dedicated fanbase. Jo Linney from Sofia Souvenirs shared that tourists from around the world, including Australia, the United States, and Scotland, often visit Barry Island specifically because of Gavin & Stacey.
The show’s international appeal has surprised even locals, who didn’t initially realize the extent of its global fanbase. The upcoming filming has only heightened anticipation, with many fans eager to witness the series’ final chapter.
Despite the excitement, not all Barry residents have fond memories of the previous filming in 2019. Some locals expressed frustration over road closures and late-night disruptions caused by the production crew.
County councillor Mark Hooper acknowledged these concerns but emphasized that filming companies strive to be “good neighbors” and manage the impact on the community as best as they can.
With the Gavin & Stacey series coming to an end after 17 years, there are mixed feelings in Barry, as the town prepares to say goodbye to the show that has become a significant part of its identity.
