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River City: BBC axes one of its longest-running dramas

‘River City’ has been scrapped by the BBC
‘River City’ has been scrapped by the BBC (BBC)
  • The BBC is cancelling its long-running Scottish soap opera, River City, after 23 years on air.
  • The show, which provided opportunities for Scottish actors and crew, will air its final episode in September 2026.
  • The decision has drawn criticism, with concerns raised about the impact on Scottish talent and the decline of continuing drama.
  • The BBC cited changing viewing habits and increased competition as reasons for the cancellation, stating intentions to invest in new drama series.
  • Equity General Secretary Paul Fleming called the decision "short-sighted" and "devastating" for aspiring actors from working-class backgrounds.
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