Doctors fans petition to save cancelled soap – writers' union backs bid
The Writers’ Guild of Great Britain called the show's cancellation a "terrible loss to the UK writing community".
Following the announcement that BBC daytime soap Doctors has been cancelled after 23 years on screen, fans have launched a petition attempting to get the broadcaster to change its mind.
The petition, which as of Friday 20th October has over 2,000 signatures, calls on fans to sign in order to "save" the soap, saying that "fans have grown with the characters over the years and feel part of the ever changing Doctors family", and that "we need a program that reflects the NHS in an entertaining but also educational way".
This petition has subsequently been supported by The Writers’ Guild of Great Britain, with the union's general secretary, Ellie Peers, saying in a statement: "The closure of Doctors is a terrible loss to the UK writing community, and to audiences.
"Initially considered a ‘training’ show for creatives, it has long developed into a much-loved programme with fantastic stories written by dedicated teams of scriptwriters. It is essential in an increasingly global market that the UK continues to provide distinctive content and opportunities for our writers."
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Peers continued: "It is, therefore, of real concern that this is the second long running drama series to be scrapped by the BBC in the last two years, the first being Holby City. The closure of another drama series leaves a big hole in the drama slate, and in the pockets of Doctors writers, many of whom have written for the show for years.
"We will be continuing our conversations with the BBC on this and providing support for our members who are affected."
The union has also provided a link to the petition and called on members to sign it.
When the news of the soap's cancellation was announced, the BBC said in a statement that it was a "very difficult decision", while revealing that "the final episode will screen in December 2024, and we are working closely with BBC Studios to give it the finale it deserves."
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This year on the soap has been a big one, as Jan Pearson's character Karen Hollins, who had been a part of the show for 14 years, died suddenly in shocking scenes.
Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.
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Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.
