What’s the Plot for James Corden and Ruth Jones' New Show After Gavin and Stacey?

James Corden and Ruth Jones, the creative duo behind the beloved series Gavin and Stacey, are set to return to television with a brand new sitcom titled The Choir. Following the success of their Christmas special, they signed a deal with Apple TV Plus to develop this new show, which will follow the story of two estranged siblings. The news comes amid speculation regarding their future projects, with fans hoping for a return to the world of Gavin and Stacey. However, the creators have firmly stated that their time in that universe has concluded.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• James Corden and Ruth Jones have signed a deal with Apple TV Plus for a new sitcom.
• The show, titled The Choir, focuses on estranged siblings Ben and Lisa.
• They are confirmed to write, star, and executive produce the eight-part series.
• Initial reports suggested the deal was worth £8 million, but this figure has been disputed.
• The duo has stated they are finished with Gavin and Stacey following the 2024 Christmas special.

The New Sitcom: The Choir

The Choir marks a significant departure for Corden and Jones, who have been synonymous with the characters of Smithy and Nessa. In their latest venture, the duo will explore the complexities of family dynamics through the lens of estranged siblings. The series revolves around Ben, played by Corden, who is compelled to return to his hometown after years apart from his sister, Lisa, portrayed by Jones. This return forces him to confront a past he has tried to escape, setting the stage for both comedic and poignant moments.

Plot Overview of The Choir

The premise of The Choir taps into universal themes of family, reconciliation, and personal growth. Ben's unexpected return to a life he thought he had left behind brings a myriad of challenges, particularly as he grapples with his relationship with Lisa. The show promises to blend heartfelt storytelling with the humour that fans expect from Corden and Jones.

Behind the Scenes: Corden and Jones’ Creative Partnership

James Corden and Ruth Jones have enjoyed a successful partnership since the inception of Gavin and Stacey, a show that has become a cultural touchstone in British television. Their chemistry is evident both on-screen and in their writing process, which Jones describes as a collaborative and joyous experience. In interviews, both have expressed excitement about their new project, indicating that their creative synergy remains strong.

Executive Production and Writing Roles

Alongside their acting roles, Corden and Jones will serve as executive producers for The Choir. This dual responsibility enables them to maintain creative control over the series, ensuring that it resonates with audiences in the same way their previous works have. Their dedication to quality storytelling and character development will be crucial as they embark on this new chapter.

The Financial Landscape of The Choir

Reports initially suggested that the deal with Apple TV Plus was valued at £8 million. However, sources close to the negotiations have since indicated that this figure may be inflated. Apple has chosen to remain tight-lipped about the financial details of the agreement, with insiders noting that it could be more accurately described as a “multi-million pound deal.” This ambiguity highlights the competitive nature of the streaming market, where high-profile talent often commands substantial fees.

The Impact of Gavin and Stacey's Success

The success of the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special in 2024 has undoubtedly played a significant role in the renewed interest in Corden and Jones’ work. The special attracted millions of viewers, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the characters and their stories. This reception has likely influenced the deals and offers they received from various studios, ultimately leading to their collaboration with Apple.

The Future of Gavin and Stacey

While fans remain hopeful for more content from the Gavin and Stacey universe, both Corden and Jones have made it clear that their time with these characters is over. In a documentary about the Christmas special, they expressed their desire to leave Smithy and Nessa's story as it stands, citing concerns that revisiting their lives would detract from the original narrative. Ruth Jones stated, “Once Smithy and Nessa got together, that really is the end.”

Why This Matters to Fans

The announcement of The Choir will likely stir mixed feelings among Gavin and Stacey enthusiasts. On one hand, the excitement of new content from Corden and Jones is palpable; on the other, the closure of the Gavin and Stacey chapter feels definitive. Fans have taken to social media to express their hopes for spin-offs or further explorations of beloved characters, but the creators have remained steadfast in their decision to move forward.

The Creative Process: What to Expect

As with their previous work, audiences can expect a blend of humour and emotional depth in The Choir. Corden and Jones have a knack for crafting relatable characters and scenarios that resonate with viewers. Their writing often draws from personal experiences and observations, making their stories feel authentic and grounded. The eight-part series is anticipated to deliver a similar mix of laughs and heartfelt moments, appealing to both new viewers and long-time fans.

Anticipated Reception and Cultural Impact

The Choir is poised to make a significant impact on the television landscape, particularly as streaming services continue to dominate viewership. With a strong narrative and the established popularity of its creators, the series is likely to attract a broad audience. Additionally, the dynamics of sibling relationships explored in the show may resonate with many viewers, potentially sparking discussions around family, estrangement, and reconciliation.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead

As James Corden and Ruth Jones embark on this new venture with The Choir, fans are left to ponder what lies ahead for their creative partnership. While the world of Gavin and Stacey may be closed, their collaboration promises to deliver fresh stories that still capture the essence of what made their previous work so beloved. Only time will tell how The Choir will be received and what further projects may emerge from this talented duo.

What new directions do you think Corden and Jones will take their storytelling in? The anticipation builds as we await the debut of The Choir, which may redefine their legacy in the world of British comedy. #TheChoir #JamesCorden #RuthJones

FAQs

What is The Choir about?

The Choir follows estranged siblings Ben and Lisa, exploring their complicated relationship as Ben returns to his hometown after years apart. It combines humour with emotional depth, typical of Corden and Jones’ work.

Who are the creators of The Choir?

James Corden and Ruth Jones, the creators of Gavin and Stacey, are behind The Choir. They will write, star, and executive produce the series.

How much is the deal with Apple TV Plus worth?

Initial reports suggested the deal was worth £8 million, but this figure has been disputed. Apple has not confirmed the financial details, and insiders suggest it may be a “multi-million pound deal.”

Will there be more Gavin and Stacey?

Both Corden and Jones have stated that their time with Gavin and Stacey is over, emphasising that they will not be pursuing further stories in that universe after the Christmas special.

When will The Choir be released?

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding the release date for The Choir. Fans are eagerly awaiting further details from Apple TV Plus.