BBC Scotland cancels "River City" after 23 years

BBC Scotland has decided to cancel the popular soap opera "River City" after 23 years on the air. The show first aired in September 2002 and is set to continue filming for another year, with the final series scheduled to air in autumn 2026. "River City" is a beloved show in Scotland, primarily set in the fictional area of Shieldinch, near Glasgow. It has won awards, including 'Best Drama' at the RTS Scotland in 2023. The soap was seen as Scotland's version of "EastEnders" and "Coronation Street," although it was never broadcast on a UK-wide network. The BBC cited a significant change in audience behavior as the reason for the cancellation. They noted viewers are moving away from long-running series towards shorter ones. In light of this shift, the BBC plans to increase its total investment in drama productions over the next three years, focusing on creating "world-class" content. Several new dramas will be produced, including "Counsels," "Grams," and "The Young Team." The BBC also announced the return of popular shows like "Granite Harbour," "Shetland," and "Vigil." Industry representatives expressed concern over the impact of the cancellation. Philippa Childs, head of the Bectu union, described the decision as "incredibly disheartening" for both workers and the local film industry. BBC Scotland's director, Hayley Valentine, praised the show's legacy and promised that the team has exciting plans for the finale. She emphasized the need to invest in a new generation of drama series that reflect diverse storytelling across the UK.