The BBC has announced the cancellation of one of its longest-running shows in Scotland, River City, despite plans to inject nearly £100 million into Scottish drama over the next three years. The move has sparked backlash from industry unions, who argue it will severely impact local talent and the television industry.
BBC Pulls Plug on River City After Two Decades
For over 20 years, River City has been a staple of Scottish television, bringing gripping stories and beloved characters to audiences across the country. But by next fall, the show will air its final episode.
The decision aligns with the BBC’s strategy to invest more in new high-impact drama series rather than long-running soaps. BBC Scotland Director Hayley Valentine acknowledged the significance of the decision, calling River City “a wonderful adventure” but stating that “as viewing patterns change and competition intensifies, this is the right time” for a shift in investment.
Created by Stephen Greenhorn and produced by BBC Studios, the Glasgow-set soap has provided a launchpad for many Scottish actors and storytellers. Despite its loyal fanbase, the network believes the future lies in fresh drama productions rather than continuing long-standing ones.
A Bigger Budget for Scottish Productions
While axing River City, the BBC is committing over £95 million to Scottish drama from 2026 to 2028, averaging at least £30 million per year. For comparison:
| Year | Previous Annual Budget | New Annual Budget |
|---|---|---|
| 2021-2025 | £25M | N/A |
| 2026-2028 | N/A | £30M |
This marks a 25% increase in spending, a move the BBC hopes will lead to more ambitious and diverse productions. Louise Thornton, head of content at BBC Scotland, has already announced three new drama projects:
- Grams, a darkly comic thriller from Line of Duty producer World Productions.
- The Young Team, an adaptation of Graeme Armstrong’s acclaimed novel.
- Counsels, a legal drama co-created by Skins mastermind Bryan Elsley.
The corporation aims to showcase Scottish storytelling to a broader audience while adapting to changing viewing habits.
“A Disaster for Scottish Television,” Say Critics
Not everyone is convinced by the BBC’s decision. Industry professionals have voiced concerns over the impact on Scottish talent, particularly the opportunities River City provided for emerging actors, writers, and crew members.
Paul Fleming, General Secretary of Equity, did not hold back his criticism: “Axing River City would have a devastating effect on acting and production roles for Scottish talent. There is simply no equivalent to a regular soap for getting your foot in the door of this notoriously cutthroat industry.”
For many actors, soaps like River City provide vital experience and a steady income, something Fleming argues is irreplaceable.
Directors and Writers Demand Accountability
Directors UK CEO Andy Harrower called the cancellation a “killer blow” to Scotland-based directors. He warned that the industry has already struggled to provide enough work opportunities, and this decision could make things worse. “The BBC has indicated that the money saved will be reallocated to other Scottish production. This must happen, and it must translate into work opportunities for Scottish talent. We will hold the BBC to account on this.”
The Writers’ Guild of Great Britain (WGGB) has also intervened. Chair Emma Reeves stated that the guild is in urgent discussions with the BBC, condemning what she calls the “serious erosion of continuing drama,” which she says is essential to nurturing writing talent.
Scottish TV Industry Under Scrutiny
The BBC’s handling of Scottish television has already been under the microscope in recent months. Controversy erupted around The Traitors, filmed in Scotland but criticized for allegedly hiring a disproportionately low number of Scottish-based crew members.
This latest move has reignited concerns about whether Scottish productions genuinely benefit local talent. With industry figures promising to pressure the BBC on its commitments, the fate of Scottish drama remains uncertain.
