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Fans of long-running BBC sitcom Not Going Out can breathe a sigh of relief, the hit show is officially returning for not one, but two more series.
Comedy favourite Lee Mack will be back in action, along with Sally Bretton as his ever-patient on-screen wife Lucy, as the couple embark on a brand-new chapter of suburban chaos.
After reaching the monumental milestone of 100 episodes, many fans feared the end was nigh for the wise-cracking sitcom. But the BBC has now confirmed that the beloved series is very much staying in, and staying on.
A TV insider spilled: “Reaching the milestone of 100 episodes could have been a fitting way to end Not Going Out. But both the BBC and Lee were keen to do more, so a 14th series has been green lit.”
And while the laughs will continue, the show is set for a bit of a shake-up. The new series will see Lee and Lucy swapping city life for the countryside as they attempt a quieter existence with their children now off at university.
The move opens up a whole new range of comedic opportunities as the pair adjust to rural routines, nosey neighbours, and possibly even a few midlife meltdowns.
The decision to commission more episodes is being seen as a significant boost for traditional British comedy, which has faced increasing pressure in recent years due to shrinking budgets and shifts in programming priorities.
Credit: Avalon//BBC
“It’s a positive move given the lack of funding placed in comedy over the years,” the insider added. “But the BBC clearly wants to maintain traditional studio-based sitcoms, viewers still love them.”
Not Going Out first aired in 2006 and has become a staple of British television, thanks to its razor-sharp one-liners, slapstick humour, and old-school sitcom charm. Its longevity has made it one of the UK's longest-running comedies, with a loyal fanbase tuning in year after year.
With two more series in the pipeline, it looks like Lee Mack’s hapless alter ego isn’t hanging up his trainers just yet.
So, whether it’s dodging DIY disasters or causing countryside commotion, one thing’s certain, Lee’s still not going out, and we’re still here for it.