**Richard E Grant Embarks on Heartfelt Gavin & Stacey Tour with Ruth Jones**
Esteemed actor Richard E Grant, well-loved for his roles in films such as ‘Saltburn’ and known for his immense passion for British comedy, has made an emotional pilgrimage to Barry Island, the iconic backdrop of the much-lauded sitcom Gavin & Stacey. His tour was made all the more memorable by being guided by none other than Ruth Jones—the co-creator of the series and celebrated performer behind the iconic Nessa Jenkins.
The pair’s outing is steeped in both professional collaboration and personal significance. Jones and Grant are currently colleagues on the set of BBC’s upcoming adaptation, The Other Bennet Sister. Away from period drama, their visit to Barry Island this week offered Grant a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the locations that have become almost mythical for Gavin & Stacey fans across the nation.
Capturing his journey on social media, Grant shared a video with fans, highlighting the most recognisable spots featured in the beloved series. In the footage, the actor appears genuinely awed, exclaiming, “I’m here, in Barry…” before panning the camera to reveal Jones herself. They can be seen visiting the famous terraced house at the heart of the sitcom, wandering down familiar streets, passing by the well-known Uncle Bryn’s residence, and eventually strolling along the seafront, before calling in at Marco’s café.
Amongst the sights and laughter, Grant candidly spoke about the significant, emotional connection he holds with the series. He revealed that during the most challenging period of his life—his wife Joan Washington’s battle with cancer—Gavin & Stacey was a source of much-needed comfort. “Really emotional being here. The last moments of my wife’s life we watched Gavin & Stacey on repeat, and it just cheered us up endlessly. And I’m in Barry,” he said, visibly moved.
Grant’s late wife, Joan Washington, passed away in September 2021 after being diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. The revelation about the pair’s shared solace found in the sitcom deeply resonated with his followers and fans of the show, illustrating the profound ways in which television can offer companionship during life’s most difficult passages.
Fans were quick to respond with messages of warmth and empathy, acknowledging how special it must have been for Grant to visit the filming locations. One commenter wrote, “Oh goodness, this has made my day, possibly my week! Wonderful Richard.” Another shared, “I felt emotional watching and seeing you reliving special memories. I watch Gavin and Stacey all the time, especially if emotions are in need! I would love to someday visit. What a dream come true that would be. Thank you for taking us along.”
The video concluded on a lighter note, with Ruth Jones as Nessa delighting viewers as she cheekily declared, “Oh Rich, what’s occurin’?”—a nod to one of the show’s most memorable catchphrases. This small gesture was a reminder of the enduring affection both fans and cast members have for the series, which remains a mainstay of British popular culture.
Grant’s enthusiasm for Gavin & Stacey is no passing fancy. Throughout the years, he has publicly shared his fandom and once even mentioned on BBC Radio 2 with Scott Mills his wish to appear in the show, suggesting he’d have loved to play one of Nessa’s colourful ex-partners.
The deeply personal reason behind Grant’s visit offers a poignant reminder of the impact that television and storytelling can have in people’s lives, providing solace, laughter, and a sense of community even in the most trying times. With figures like Grant and Jones involved, Gavin & Stacey’s legacy continues to resonate, weaving together the experiences of fans old and new.
As the pair now work together on their latest production, The Other Bennet Sister, it is clear that their connection extends far beyond the screen, founded on both professional admiration and the shared comfort found in the arts. In a world often dominated by fleeting trends, the enduring influence of shows like Gavin & Stacey—and the profound reasons some people treasure them—reminds us why great storytelling matters.