Fans rally to resurrect goodnight sweetheart through crowdfunding campaign

In the United Kingdom, Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the writers of the popular sitcom Goodnight Sweetheart, have sought help from fans after the BBC decided against commissioning a seventh series. Originally aired between 1993 and 1999, the show focused on Gary Sparrow, a time-travelling bigamist portrayed by Nicholas Lyndhurst. After a 17-year hiatus, the series returned for a one-off special in 2016, much to the delight of its long-time followers. However, disappointment ensued when the BBC opted not to produce any further episodes despite viewer enthusiasm for the program. In response to the lack of further development, Marks and Gran have initiated a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign with the goal of raising £30,000 to finance a sequel novel entitled Goodnight Sweetheart: Many Happy Returns. The campaign specifically seeks to revisit the story of Gary Sparrow, picking up where the 2016 special left off. The authors have expressed that they believed a new series would follow the special but have noted the unexplained decision by the BBC to not commission more episodes. As of the current date, the campaign has raised over £8,000 towards their target, with 38 days remaining. The novel is fully licensed by the production company Freemantle, ensuring that the story aligns with the established narrative created in the series. The plot of Many Happy Returns revolves around Gary dealing with a white lie he told his wife, which has created insecurities in their relationship. The story further explores his time travelling adventures and complex relationships as he navigates his life in both the past and present. The writers encourage the show’s fanbase to contribute to the campaign, highlighting the emotional investment viewers have in the characters and story. They have stated that this novel aims to serve as what the seventh series of the programme might have been, allowing fans to immerse themselves in Gary Sparrow's further escapades and experiences in a narrative form. With significant support from the community, the writers hope to breathe new life into the beloved series.