Not Going Out returns for fifth series
The British Comedy Guide can confirm that the popular BBC One sitcom Not Going Out, written by and starring Lee Mack, has been recommissioned.
This news will come as a relief to many fans after rumours circulated earlier in the year that co-star Tim Vine had quit the show. However, a recent interview with Vine for comedy repeats channel Dave alluded to the series' return and Vine's involvement - and BCG has now confirmed this with show insiders.
The confirmation of the show's recommissioning will not surprise many industry watchers: the series had been steadily building a loyal audience over its four series, recording a healthy high of 4.75 million viewers during the most recent run, broadcast in January and February 2011.
Despite the show's increasing popularity, the sitcom has faced a number of uncertainties and setbacks throughout its life. American actress Megan Dodds had starred in Series 1 as Mack's flatmate Kate, but it was felt that the character wasn't working out quite as intended and she was replaced with Sally Bretton as Lucy from Series 2 onwards. Further, the BBC cancelled the show after 2009's Series 3 in moves largely seen as political against production company Avalon. When the decision was reversed later in the year, it became apparent that another of the show's stars, Miranda Hart, would be unable to return as hapless cleaner Barbara due to clashing production schedules with her own series, BBC Two's Miranda.
The British Comedy Guide understands that preliminary writing for Series 5 has already begun, with a view to broadcast either at the end of 2011 or in early 2012. The full current cast are expected to return.
Story Update (27th April): the BBC have actually ordered two more series, alongside a prime-time entertainment show hosted by Mack. Full Story