Two of Wales’ best‑loved comedy actors are set to share the screen once again, with Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs teaming up to co‑write and star in a brand new series commissioned by BBC Wales and BBC Comedy.
The six‑part show, still untitled, centres on an unlikely friendship that begins in the waiting room of a knee trauma clinic. Clive, a 60‑year‑old retired teacher coming to terms with being widowed, meets Shelley‑Ann, a 55‑year‑old environmental officer in the middle of a messy divorce. What follows is a tender, funny exploration of how relationships can change — and begin — later in life.
Old friends back together
Jones, who grew up in Porthcawl and became a household name through Gavin & Stacey, said she was “so grateful” to the BBC for backing the project.
“I’ve known Steve for years and working with him is always a thrill,” she said. “I can’t wait to get started.”
Speirs, from Troedyrhiw near Merthyr Tydfil, is equally enthusiastic. “I’ve worked with Ruth for over 30 years,” he said. “It’s brilliant to be doing it again.”
BBC hails “something special”
The script has already impressed BBC bosses. Jon Petrie, the corporation’s Director of Comedy, said the team were “weak at the knees” when they first read it, while Nick Andrews, Head of Commissioning for BBC Wales, described it as “a total delight” to be working with the pair again.
The series will be produced by Cardiff‑based Tidy Productions and shown on BBC One, BBC Wales and iPlayer.
A strong Welsh connection
Both Jones and Speirs have long championed Welsh stories on screen. Earlier this year they returned to Porthcawl for a BBC Cymru Wales special celebrating Jones’ roots — covered here.
This latest project continues that tradition, bringing two familiar Welsh voices together to tell a story about resilience, humour and the unexpected friendships that can change lives.
