BBC axes one of its longest-running soaps after 23 years

Farewell to a favourite.

The news was announced today (March 18) that the Glasgow-based soap, River City, is set to come to an end after over two decades on screen.

The broadcaster stated that it wants to concentrate on the "next generation" of drama with investment set to rise to over £95m in the next three years.

Fortunately for fans there's still a bit of time until the final farewell with the last set of episodes of the show not set to air until autumn 2026.

The popular show features a host of Scottish actors including Stephen Purdon, Frank Gallagher, Gayle Telfer Stevens and Darren Brownlie, will air in autumn 2026.

A spokesperson said: “Reflecting a significant change in audience behaviour away from long-running series and towards shorter runs, the BBC will make a considerable boost in major drama productions set across Scotland, moving the River City investment, starting with three new series – Counsels, Grams and The Young Team. 

“As well as these new titles, popular drama Granite Harbour will return for a third series, filming in Aberdeen and Glasgow in the coming months.

“Also making a return is Shetland for its tenth series and Vigil for a third series, while the previously announced eight-part drama, Mint, is filming in Scotland. Combined, these dramas will bring a greater range of stories written by Scots, about Scotland and made in Scotland for a UK-wide audience.”

Hayley Valentine, Director, BBC Scotland said: “River City has been a wonderful adventure and of course we’ll all be sad to see it go.

“The team have done a brilliant job and I know they have some big plans for the finale next year.”

She added: “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.

“Our goal is to grow Scotland further on the global drama map – with a slate of world-class productions that set the standard not just here but internationally too.”

Louise Thornton, head of commissioning at BBC Scotland, said: “We are incredibly proud of River City and it is with great sadness that we have come to this difficult decision. 

“I want to thank the River City team in front of and behind the cameras for their dedication to the show over the years, past and present.

“For more than two decades, River City has brought drama to life on screen as well as offering industry training at grassroots level, and we know that fans of the programme will be really sad to see it go.

“The show leaves a tremendous legacy behind and the new productions we’ve announced will offer further opportunities.”

She added: “However, the media landscape is changing at pace and, as audience viewing habits change, it’s vital we respond to this.”