2 weeks Ago By Jane Bradley
The BBC is to scrap flagship soap River City amid a “change” in audience viewing patterns. The soap, which launched in September 2002, is to end in autumn next year. Fans have taken to social media to condemn the cut as a “terrible decision” for the “best show on Scottish TV”.
Set in the fictional west of Scotland town of Shieldinch and filmed in Dumbarton, it was regarded as a Scottish competitor to soaps Eastenders and Coronation Street. The broadcaster, which revealed “big plans” for the finale in autumn 2026, said viewers had moved away from long running series and preferred drama with shorter runs. BBC Scotland director Hayley Valentine said: "The team have done a brilliant job and I know they have some big plans for the finale next year.
"But as viewing patterns change and competition intensifies, this is the right time to invest in the next generation of high-impact drama series from across Scotland showcasing storytelling across the UK." In a statement issued on social media, BBC Scotland said: “After over 20 years telling the stories of the characters in Shieldinch, we’re sorry to bring you the sad news that River City will come to an end in Sept 2026. We're thankful to our amazing viewers, fans, cast, crew, writers & producers who are all a valued part of the community.
“Looking ahead, the BBC will increase investment in other major drama productions set across Scotland.” It added: “Thank you for being part of the show, and we hope you’ll continue to share your favourite moments and characters with us until then.” Many well known actors have appeared in River City over the past two decades, including Grant Stott and Outlander star Sam Heughan, while Stefan Dennis, from Neighbours, and Lorraine McIntosh from pop band Deacon Blue also featured in the show’s early days.
Other celebrities to have made special appearances include singer Susan Boyle, broadcaster Lorraine Kelly and Radio 2 DJ Scott Mills. One fan, Nicola Chalmers, commented on the news with the words “Terrible decision”, while another, Michelle Walker, said: “Why axe the best program on Scottish TV? So sad.” As it announced the end of the long-running show, the BBC said three new dramas - Counsels, Grams and The Young Team - would be launched, creating new opportunities across the independent TV production sector.
It said total investment in BBC drama from Scotland over the next three years is expected to rise to over £95m in total..
