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River City Axed: BBC Scotland Ends Iconic Soap After 22 Years

Media and Entertainment

Business Honor
19 March, 2025

Viewer trends shift as BBC invests £95m in new high-impact Scottish dramas.

BBC Scotland has confirmed that it is to axe its flagship soap opera “River City” after over two decades on television. The show, which originally launched in September 2002, will keep filming for a further year before broadcasting its last episodes in autumn 2025.

The move follows viewer trends away from long-term soaps and towards shorter, more intense drama series. BBC Scotland said although River City was a Scottish TV favourite, the broadcaster is shifting its attention towards international drama shows. The show's cancellation comes despite the fact that the BBC has committed to growing it’s spend on Scottish drama, with a total of £95 million projected over the course of three years.

Recorded on a purpose-built set in Dumbarton but set in the imaginary region of Shieldinch, River City was Scotland's version of EastEnders and Coronation Street. Though never broadcast throughout the UK, the series attracted a devoted audience and had well-known actors such as Stefan Dennis (Neighbours), Lorraine McIntosh (Deacon Blue), and Outlander star Sam Heughan. It also had celebrity guest appearances by Susan Boyle, Lorraine Kelly, and Scott Mills throughout its run.

BBC Scotland Director Hayley Valentine complemented the team behind the show and vowed an unforgettable ending. In addition, the BBC established that new series of dramas like Counsels, Grams, and The Young Team will take the place of River City, opening avenues for the regional TV industry.

Philippa Childs, leader of the Bectu union for TV crew, described the move as "devastating" for staff and the sector. Admitting the shift in the media world, she stressed the workforce's future should be taken into account.

Other BBC Scotland dramas, such as Granite Harbour, Shetland, and Vigil, will be going on despite River City's cancellation, reflecting the broadcaster's determination to keep telling Scottish stories.