29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC's Death Valley draws record viewers despite mixed reviews
BBC's Death Valley draws record viewers despite mixed reviews
The BBC has shared the viewing figures for new comedy-drama Death Valley following the launch of the show last weekend, after some viewers complained about the first episode.
BBC's latest offering, Death Valley, which started on the weekend, has unveiled its viewership data amidst polarised opinions from audiences regarding its premiere episode.
The series set against the Welsh backdrop introduces us to detective sergeant Janie Mallowan (portrayed by Gwyneth Keyworth) and has-been actor John Chapel (played by Timothy Spall), who join forces in an unexpected twist to crack down on crime.
Created by Paul Doolan, known for his work on the Sky One series Trollied, Death Valley has drawn parallels with Ludwig and been likened to Death in Paradise.
However, it recently made its debut on BBC One this Sunday past, with the show scheduled to continue on the channel the following weekend, while all episodes can be accessed via BBC iPlayer.
BBC's Death Valley draws record viewers despite mixed reviews
(Image: BBC/BBC Studios/Simon Ridgway )
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BBC's revelation confirms that the show's first foray into living rooms garnered 2.9 million viewers during its prime time spot from 8.15pm until 9pm on BBC One—marking the highest debut audience for a new BBC Scripted Comedy in the last half-decade.
This milestone slightly surpasses the viewer count of Ludwig when it premiered in September of the previous year, amassing 2.8 million.
Featuring familiar faces such as Steffan Rhodri and Melanie Walters from Gavin and Stacey in its line-up, Death Valley centres on the "unlikely crime-solving partnership" between washed-up actor John, recognised for his role as a fictional sleuth, and police officer Janie, reports the Mirror.
The show promises engaging dynamics with a descriptive tease: "They'd make the perfect crime-fighting duo - if only they could get along!"
Death Valley aired its first episode on Sunday night
(Image: BBC/BBC Studios/Simon Ridgway )
The premiere of Death Valley was met with a polarised response on X despite its reported success in the ratings. Several individuals indicated an early dislike for the show, with swift dismissals being shared online.
One viewer expressed immediate displeasure, writing: "5 mins and switching off - this is AWEFUL soooooo baaad."
Another viewer switched channels abruptly stating: "Had to turn over." Echoing the sentiment, someone else remarked: "I only lasted 10 mins."
There was a consensus amongst others who found little to enjoy about the programme. Complaints kept coming as one critic mentioned: "Ten minutes unintelligible thanks."
While another reeled: "Just sat and watched the biggest heap of s***e ever and it's called #DeathValley that's 45 minutes of life I ain't getting back."
Death Valley got mixed reactions from people watching online
(Image: BBC/BBC Studios/Simon Ridgway )
Comments continued to critique the show, with another sharing: "Shame #DeathValley had good potential. But it's so cringeworthy. Can't believe it was considered good Sunday night viewing. Can't wait for #Ludwig series 2!!!"
Yet, not everyone felt let down by Death Valley. Some viewers did speak out in support of the show.
An enthusiastic fan praised it, saying: "I really enjoyed that. Hilarious! Policing at its finest! #DeathValley. Well done all involved! :) I howled all the way through!"
Another supporter took to the platform to commend the show: "Not everyone's cup of tea but I loved #DeathValley. Quirky but most enjoyable, acting was superb by both lead actors. Full marks to all involved in this series - looking forward to more. Well done #BBC."
A third viewer shared high praise on social media, writing: "#DeathValley is absolutely excellent. Getting the blend of comedy and drama right is very difficult - but the team have done it here. It can build a following. The brilliant Brokenwood Mysteries from NZ is now in its 11th season. #DeathValley can follow a similar trajectory."
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Another keen fan took to the internet to express their enjoyment, stating: "#deathvalley really enjoying the show. Easy going murder mystery. Think Death in Paradise but in Llandeilo. Nice to hear genuine Welsh accents on TV. Tidy."
Death Valley is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
