Two Pints comes to an end
The long-running BBC Three sitcom Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps is to end, the corporation has confirmed. The British Comedy Guide understands that a final special is unlikely, but has not been ruled out.
The series, about a group of 20-something friends in the Cheshire town of Runcorn, has long courted critical controversy for its unashamed use of crude humour. However, it maintained a large, dedicated fan-base throughout its run, offering a heightened taste of the reality of life for a set of consistent, well-defined characters.
Two Pints was created by Susan Nickson in 2001, based on her and her friends' lives. Just 18 when the series began (on BBC Two), Nickson was sole writer on 50 of the show's 80 episodes, seeing the programme transfer first to BBC Choice and then to BBC Three.
However, the series suffered a number of setbacks during its run, notably multiple cast changes. Ralf Little, one of the original 5 central characters, left the show at the end of its sixth series, with Sheridan Smith and Kathryn Drysdale also being absent for Series 9, which broadcast during April and May 2011.
The numerous cast changes attracted much comment, with critics often citing the changes as "proof" of the show's demise. However, this was never borne out by viewing figures; the most recent series, in which two main characters were replaced, was enjoyed by the show's largest audience in a number of years.
Nevertheless, one comment on the British Comedy Guide forums summed up the run for some fans: "Loved it when they were young and funny. RIP Two Pints." But many others enjoyed the new episodes: "I love the new series with the new characters of Cassie and Billy. Their attempt at revamping has worked and the new characters bring a new level of comedy that is welcomed after a period of being off screen."
BBC Three is currently undergoing a transitionary period, with a number of shows being cancelled following the appointment of a new channel controller, Zai Bennett. Previous channel boss Danny Cohen is now the head of BBC One.
Bennett commented that "BBC Three is all about giving new writers a chance. It's now time to give that chance to others."
Speaking to the British Comedy Guide, Susan Nickson said: "It's sad that Two Pints no longer has a home at BBC Three but Zai has an informed and clear vision for his channel and I completely respect this decision. I'm heartened to see the figures for this last series have grown and the show has remained one of the BBC's most popular brands. I hope the core audience retain as much affection for the show, the characters and BBC Three as I do. I also hope people stop shouting 'bring back Jonny' at me now."
Alongside fellow writer Tim Dawson and veteran director/producer Ed Bye, Susan Nickson established her own production company earlier in the year, Tall TV, and is already working with broadcasters on both sides of the Atlantic, including the BBC.
In celebration of Two Pints' 10th anniversary earlier this year, Nickson shared her thoughts on the series and her own experiences during its run.