Entertainment

Benidorm fans devastated as ITV sitcom ends with star-studded finale

It featured cameos from a host of stars.
It featured cameos from a host of stars. It featured cameos from a host of stars.

Benidorm fans have expressed their sadness as the last episode of the TV comedy aired.

The ITV show – which has been running since 2007 – was revealed to be coming to an end by creator Derren Litten earlier this week.

Set in the Spanish resort, Benidorm follows an ensemble cast of holidaymakers and staff at the Solana all-inclusive hotel.

Now in its 10th series, the show has attracted cameos from the likes of Tony Hadley, Denise Welch, Bananarama, Dame Joan Collins and Cilla Black.

After the star-studded finale, one fan wrote on Twitter: “Ah man I’m actually really sad that’s the last ever @BenidormTVshow thanks for all the laughs over the past decade. This show set the bar for comedy and really inspired me to get into comedy too. All the best to @DerrenLitten in his next venture.

Another wrote: “I’m SHOCKED too This CAN’T be the last EVER episode of #Benidorm? Can we start from the very beginning please.”

Another viewer said: “Oh Benidorm we’re going to miss you Thank you for all the laughs & for making us feel like we was on holiday with you.”

Another fan wrote on Twitter: “the best show on telly…. @BenidormTVshow !! Gutted it’s the end of the series, really hope it’s not the last!!! IT BETTER BLOODY NOT BE!!”

The episode featured a scene-stealing cameo from Claire Sweeney as an airline employee with a huge bun and severe make up.

One viewer said: “Love @clairesweeney’s contouring and absurd hair – looks exactly like SO many airport staff I’ve seen!”

It also featured an appearance by Frankie Goes To Hollywood singer Holly Johnson  and Cannon and Ball comedian Bobby Ball.

Litten announced the news it was coming to an end on Twitter, writing: “Crazy to think Wednesday will be the last episode of Benidorm!

“I created the series over 11 years ago, wrote it, guest starred in it and ended up directing it. It’s difficult to think what else there is to do! Thank you for watching!”

The finale included a cameo from Litten as an Elivis impersonator. Ahead of the episode he tweeted a picture of a bottle of vodka and a glass, writing: “Too early? (Please don’t say yes because this will be my 2nd).”

He added: “I feel like getting wrecked and seeing the Bruno Mars Tribute in Morgans tavern…. is there anyone in Benidorm now that can do that for me later??? Thanks x RT if you can (and send PICS!)”

However, star Jake Canuso gave fans hope there could be more episodes, writing on Twitter: “Hope you gonna enjoy the last episode of series 10 of @BenidormTVshow starring the one am only @DerrenLitten as Elvis #Benidorm see you next series.”

The show will soon embark on a tour of the UK and Ireland, featuring Canuso, Sherrie Hewson, Janine Duvitski, Adam Gillen, Shelley Longworth and Tony Maudsley.