The Glasgow-based soap, which has been on our screens for more than 20 years, will air its final episodes in Autumn 2026.
After more than two decades gracing our screens, the BBC has decided to pull the plug on River City. The beloved BBC Scotland drama series is set to broadcast its final episodes in Autumn 2026, marking the end of an era for the show that has captivated viewers with the lives and tribulations of Shieldinch’s residents.
Devotees of the popular programme will be disheartened to learn that next year will see the conclusion of the series. The BBC attributes this decision to a “significant” shift in how audiences consume content, with a preference emerging for shorter series over long-standing dramas. Additionally, “competition” has been cited as a factor in the show’s termination.
The show has launched plenty of careers, including that of Outlander’s Jamie Fraser star Sam Heughan, who played Andrew Murray on the soap, reports the Mirror.
Hayley Valentine, Director of BBC Scotland, expressed: “River City has been a wonderful adventure and of course we’ll all be sad to see it go. The team have done a brilliant job and I know they have some big plans for the finale next year.”
She further explained the rationale behind the move, saying: “But as viewing patterns change and competition intensifies, this is the right time to invest in the next generation of high-impact drama series from across Scotland showcasing storytelling across the UK.
“Our goal is to grow Scotland further on the global drama map with a slate of world-class productions that set the standard not just here but internationally too.”
Devastated fans have taken to social media to mourn the cancellation of River City, with one viewer lamenting: “Another one bites the dust, the end for #RiverCity in 2026.” (sic)
While another shared: “Knew it. With so many major characters being written out recently I predicted this was on the cards. With its often ropey writing and storylines it was definitely a guilty pleasure but I’ll be sad to see #RiverCity go… it’s not the only soap facing the axed right now, I reckon.” (sic)
Echoing the sentiment, a third fan expressed: “Yet another soap bites the dust. That’s the second this year and it’s not even April!”
BBC Scotland has announced today a trio of new shows set to captivate audiences. Among them is Counsels, a gripping legal drama that delves into the lives of five young aspiring lawyers at a prestigious law school in Scotland.
Meanwhile, Grams, billed as a dark comic thriller, spins a tale around a widow who becomes entangled with a criminal gang. Additionally, The Young Team, a six-part saga, chronicles the tumultuous path from boyhood to manhood.
Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning at BBC Scotland, expressed her sentiments on the cancellation of River City, saying: “We are incredibly proud of River City and it is with great sadness that we have come to this difficult decision.
“I want to thank the River City team in front of and behind the cameras for their dedication to the show over the years, past and present.
“For more than two decades, River City has brought drama to life on screen as well as offering industry training at grassroots level, and we know that fans of the programme will be really sad to see it go. The show leaves a tremendous legacy behind and the new productions we’ve announced will offer further opportunities.”
Addressing the evolving media environment, she continued: “However, the media landscape is changing at pace and, as audience viewing habits change, it’s vital we respond to this.
“Our three new dramas, alongside the returning drama favourites, reflect the increasing shift in audience demand for series rooted in Scotland which play to audiences across the UK…and beyond. We’re delighted to be working with such great production teams and remain steadfast in our commitment to invest in Scotland’s creative industry.”