James Corden and Ruth Jones have hinted ‘Gavin and Stacey’ will return after admitting they "hope one day" viewers will find out "what Smithy said next".
The pair admit it is "mind blowing" that more than 18.5 million tuned in to see the show’s returning Christmas special – which the BBC claim made it the biggest single episode of any scripted TV programme across all channels since current records began in 2002 – and the stars appear keen to write a follow-up episode so fans can see if Smithy (James) accepts Nessa’s (Ruth) cliff-hanger proposal.
They said: "It’s mind blowing that so many people watched our show – we still can’t get our heads round it, what a massive compliment. We are indebted to the BBC for their incredible support but most importantly to those 18.5 million viewers for watching.
"We just hope one day we can let them know what Smithy said next."
James and Ruth co-wrote the comedy, and watched it together over the festive period, and BBC bosses were delighted with the viewing figures.
Charlotte Moore, Director BBC Content, said: "These incredible viewing figures demonstrate the power of British comedy and the love for Gavin and Stacey.
"I want to thank James and Ruth for this gem and like everyone I’m longing to find out what happens next."
Shane Allen, Controller Comedy Commissioning, added: "I’m delighted for Ruth and James that their terrific comic creation is more adored than ever.
"BBC One really does bring the nation together, and these figures are testament to iPlayer’s role in bringing our hit shows to new generations of fans."
Their comments come after Larry Lamb – who plays Mick Shipman in the sitcom – dropped a huge hint there will be more ‘Gavin and Stacey’, admitting he doesn’t think the BBC can "leave that one hanging".
He said: "Quite honestly, with 17 million people that watched it, I don’t think the BBC are going to leave that one hanging.
"I wouldn’t have thought so."
Quizzed on whether he thought at the "very least" there would be another Christmas special, Larry replied: "Yeah."
Ruth Jones and James Corden drop Gavin and Stacey hint
