BBC Christmas show SMASHES viewing record – and it’s NOT Gavin and Stacey

A CHIRSTMAS Day show on the BBC has broken 20-year-old viewing records - and it's not the Gavin and Stacey finale.

The beloved sitcom's last-ever episode may have pulled in an incredible 20.9 million viewers over the past 28 days, but it wasn’t enough to clinch the top spot.

Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl soared past the competition with a jaw-dropping 21.6 million viewers watching on iPlayer and across the BBC’s channels over the same period.

Both shows smashed previous figures, becoming the most-watched scripted or animated programs since modern records began in 2002.

The BBC’s Chief Content Officer described the milestone as "astonishing".

Charlotte Moore said: "These figures exceed all expectations. To reach over 20 million in 2025 is an incredible achievement.

"Wallace and Gromit and Gavin and Stacey couldn’t be more different, but their undeniable quality and iconic characters unite them.

"It’s a privilege to have supported the exceptional creative talents behind these shows."

And the accolades didn't stop there for the BBC's beloved claymation duo.

Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl has just been nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars - the franchise's first nod in 15 years.

A Wallace and Gromit flick last took home the award in 2006, and previously won in the Animated Short Film category in 1993 and 1995.

Creators Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham have been thrilled by the response to their comeback film, saying: "Well butter me crumpets, Gromit!

"We are so truly honoured and utterly gobsmacked by these fantastic viewing figures. That our clay heroes mean so much to audiences here on the BBC is the best thrill of all."

Meanwhile, Ruth Jones and James Corden have also expressed their pride in Gavin and Stacey's success, stating: "What a testament to the BBC to have achieved such impressive viewing figures on Christmas Day. We are so proud to have been a part of it."

The extraordinary numbers cap off a big year for the BBC, which grew its audience share more than any other broadcaster or streamer in 2024.