Series axed despite strong ratings

Channel controller Danny Cohen has declined to order a third series, but has instead commissioned a 60-minute special to tie up the storylines.

The Bafta-nominated show had proved a ratings hit for the channel, attracting around 40 per cent more viewers than other shows in the timeslot.

But the subject matter – a thirtysomething woman trying to extend her youth with her hard-drinking friends – does not fit in with the channel’s youth profile. However, the BBC deny this is why the show has not been recommissioned.

Cohen told MediaGuardian: ‘Pulling has had two fantastic series on BBC3 and we've committed to an hour-long finale episode as a mark of its quality.

‘In an ideal world, we would recommission many more of our comedies - but on BBC3 we have to continually make room for the new. Every recommission means one less space for a new project.’

However, BBC Three has not always been so eager to throw out established comedy hits in favour of new programming: Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps ran for 63 episodes over seven series.

The Pulling finale is expected to air in April.

Despite today’s news, Horgan still has an exclusive two-year deal with the BBC, giving it a first look at all the projects she writes.

Meanwhile, America’s ABC network is developing its own version of Pulling.

Published: 2 Oct 2008