Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom’s final episode

Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode

As a devoted fan who has followed Gavin & Stacey since its inception, I can’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia and anticipation as we approach the return of Barry Island’s favorite residents. Having grown up with this series, it feels like catching up with old friends after a long absence.


Ruth Jones bid farewell to Sister Act The Musical after portraying the role of Mother Superior at London’s Dominion Theatre, doing so by embodying her cherished Gavin & Stacey character Nessa Jenkins.

In March, the actress, who is now 57 years old, became part of the illustrious ensemble of a popular West End production. She subsequently prolonged her tenure, performing onstage until last month, marking her final appearance then.

Furthermore, during her final performance, Ruth delighted the crowd by inviting back a beloved character, Nessa, and hinted at the upcoming revival of Gavin & Stacey.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the grand finale of our cherished comedy series is underway! Following the exciting announcement from creators Ruth and James Corden, we’ve all been eagerly awaiting its return since May.

In a heartfelt moment, Lesley Joseph expressed deep admiration for her friend and co-star, Ruth, by saying she is simply outstanding and ‘exceptional.’

Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode

Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode
Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode

She started by saying, “The convent bids farewell to the delightful Ruth Jones. It’s truly an honor and a pleasure to share time with Ruth.”

1. “Ruth has expertly guided this company, making it a pleasure to work alongside her, both on and off the stage – her kindness, her inspiring presence, and her sense of humor are truly remarkable.”

Overwhelmed with excitement, I couldn’t help but fuel the crowd’s fervor as I gleefully declared, “The one silver lining in Ruth leaving the convent is that we finally get to see where she’s headed!”

She added, “I can assure you that everyone here on the stage, as well as many of you celebrating Christmas, will likely tune in to Gavin & Stacey.”

Ruth received a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and her feelings showed clearly as she exclaimed warmly, “The last few months have truly been among the most wonderful in my life.”

Working on a professional musical for the first time, I find it truly an honor to collaborate with such remarkable individuals, both onstage and behind the scenes. It’s a humbling experience for me.

‘It’s just been the most wonderful experience I can’t tell you and thank you to the audiences.

‘It’s been fantastic and I got a little message from a friend of mine, Nessa Shanessa Jenkins…’

Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode
Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode
Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode

Amidst the crowd’s fervor, Ruth spoke fluently in a robust Welsh accent that sounded like: “Well, I must admit, this place with its rules is starting to grate on me, so I think I’ll be making my way back to Barry.”

Over the next while, I’ll work some shifts at the slot machines. Until then, I bid farewell to this motley crew. It’s uncertain when I’ll cross paths with them again, but it’s been simply terrific. You’ve certainly made it enjoyable! Farewell, sweethearts!

After James, aged 46, verified that filming for Gavin & Stacey was indeed in progress, he posted a sneak peek photo from the initial day of shooting on set.

On Monday, the actor shared an image on Instagram featuring the side profile of his character Neil ‘Smithy’ Smith’s well-known blue Volvo, a vehicle he employs for promoting his building and renovation business.

The message written on the window says: ‘At Smithy’s: If your spouse fails to accomplish it – I can help… Services include Tilining, Roof Repair, Plastering, and Feng Shui. Reach me at 07700978978.

In a playful post, James labeled the first day’s shot with: “Day 1. Let’s get started!” which sparked an enthusiastic response from his fans, who exclaimed: “This is historic!” and “I’m more thrilled about this than I am for Christmas itself!”

After Rob Brydon suggested that filming had begun for the series by sharing a selfie with Ruth on Saturday, it transpired that this was indeed the case.

As a die-hard admirer, I couldn’t help but stand beside my beloved co-star, the one who breathes life into Uncle Bryn, and I winked, hinting mysteriously, “There’s something brewing… #GavinAndStacey”.

Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode
Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode

People can look forward to revisiting Barry Island, as the popular sitcom last aired on December 25th, 2019, and was the most-watched non-sports event in the past ten years.

Towards the end of the show, Nessa knelt to pop the question to Smithy, leaving viewers eagerly waiting for his answer.

Earlier, it was shared that Robert found himself shedding tears upon reading the script, and he expressed that this upcoming episode would pack a significant emotional punch.

In conversation with Chris Evans at Laverstoke Park Farm, Rob mentioned about the concluding episode: “Initially, we realized it was inevitable, yet we were instructed to preserve the secret.”

“Apparently, you find yourself in a position where you must deceive others. This is an uncomfortable situation for you, as honesty is important to you and deceiving someone directly goes against your principles.”

He continued: ‘It was a couple of months before the cast saw the script. I only saw it, we were on holiday, we were away, about a month ago. I read it. Oh, it’s so good.’

When Chris questioned Rob about his statement, Rob answered: “Not at all, I honestly wouldn’t. I’d rather not take chances, but I genuinely believe it’s amazing.”

He revealed: ‘Do you know what? I was moved to tears, because it’s emotional.’

Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode
Ruth Jones transforms into her iconic character Nessa Jenkins onstage to tease return of Gavin & Stacey as she bids West End goodbye after finishing her run in Sister Act The Musical to begin filming sitcom's final episode

In July, James shared some significant news about Gavin & Stacey during his interview on Capital Breakfast radio, stating that the final draft of the script was nearly complete.

Host Jordan North inquired: ‘Has everything been finalized, or are there more parts to be written?’

James responded: ‘Although it’s correctly written initially, we’re currently undergoing revisions. This means we need to trim down certain parts and rearrange certain elements.’

‘Currently, we have been working while being challenged due to the fact that Ruth Jones, who plays Nessa in Sister Act on the West End stage, is also performing, and I am engaged with The Constituent at the Old Vic.’

It seems we’ve been penning down quite a few thoughts in changing rooms and such places. Despite feeling rather exhausted due to performances, we’re gearing up for more action tomorrow.

‘Back at it Friday. I hope by Friday… it will be done and finished this Friday!’

Jordan then said: ‘This Friday? Is that the deadline?’

James jokingly commented: “It seems that time has flown by since we established our own deadline, as the filming begins shortly. It’s fast approaching now.”

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2024-09-03 11:24

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