Kevin Whately Reveals ITV Tried to Cancel Auf Wiedersehen, Pet After Just One Season

Auf Wiedersehen, Pet is widely regarded as one of the greatest British television series of all time. The comedy-drama, which first aired in 1983, launched the careers of several well-known actors, including Kevin Whately, Timothy Spall, and Tim Healy. However, despite its eventual success and critical acclaim, the show almost faced cancellation after just one season. In a recent revelation, Kevin Whately disclosed that ITV executives initially disliked the show and its cast, labeling it a “turkey” and wanting to end it prematurely. This article explores the fascinating story behind ITV’s early rejection of Auf Wiedersehen, Pet and how the show ultimately triumphed to become a beloved classic.

ITV’s Initial Rejection: “The Bosses Hated Us”

Kevin Whately, who played the affable family man Neville in Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, recently opened up about the challenges the show faced behind the scenes. Speaking candidly about the early days of the series, Whately revealed that ITV executives were not impressed with the cast’s behavior or the show’s potential. “The powers that be at ITV hated us,” he said, explaining that the cast’s rowdy antics and cement-dusted appearances after filming caused frustration among the network’s bosses.

Whately described how the ITV executives viewed the cast as a “complete rabble” due to their loud and boisterous behavior in the bar after shooting scenes. This negative perception led ITV to instruct the show’s writer, Dick Clement, to wrap up the series quickly. The network was ready to cancel Auf Wiedersehen, Pet after just one season, believing it was a failure.

Despite this early setback, the show’s reception by viewers told a very different story. Within three weeks of the first season airing, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet had become a massive hit with audiences, drawing in weekly viewers of around 14 million. The critical acclaim and popularity forced ITV to reconsider, and after some delay, the network agreed to produce a second series.

The Rise of Auf Wiedersehen, Pet: From Near Cancellation to Cult Classic

Auf Wiedersehen, Pet follows a group of British construction workers who travel to Düsseldorf, Germany, to find work during a time of economic hardship in the UK. The show’s unique blend of comedy and drama, combined with its authentic portrayal of working-class life, resonated deeply with audiences. It also helped launch the careers of several actors who would go on to enjoy long and successful careers in British television and film.

Kevin Whately’s portrayal of Neville was particularly well-received, and the cast quickly became beloved figures, especially in the North East of England. Whately recalled how the local audience embraced the actors as “one of them,” treating them like rock stars and inviting them for pints at the pub. This genuine connection with viewers was a key factor in the show’s enduring popularity.

Following its initial two seasons in the 1980s, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet returned for two more series in 2003, further cementing its status as a classic British TV show. In 2015, Radio Times readers voted it the best ITV show of all time, a testament to its lasting impact on British popular culture.

Kevin Whately’s Career After Auf Wiedersehen, Pet

After the success of Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, Kevin Whately continued to build an impressive acting career. He is perhaps best known for his role as Detective Sergeant Robert Lewis in the long-running ITV crime drama Inspector Morse. Whately starred in the series for 13 years and reprised his role in the spin-off Lewis, which ran for nine years.

Whately’s career trajectory highlights how Auf Wiedersehen, Pet served as a springboard for talented actors, helping them gain recognition and opportunities in the competitive world of British television.

Reflecting on the Show’s Legacy and ITV’s Early Doubts

The story of ITV’s initial reluctance to continue Auf Wiedersehen, Pet serves as a reminder that even the most successful shows can face significant hurdles early on. Kevin Whately’s candid remarks reveal how the network’s executives underestimated the show’s appeal and the cast’s ability to connect with audiences.

Today, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet is celebrated for its authentic storytelling, memorable characters, and cultural significance. It remains a shining example of British television’s ability to create compelling narratives that resonate across generations.

Conclusion

Kevin Whately’s revelation that ITV once tried to cancel Auf Wiedersehen, Pet after only one season offers a fascinating glimpse into the challenges faced by this iconic show. Despite the network’s early doubts and the cast’s rebellious reputation, the series went on to become a beloved classic that launched the careers of several notable actors. If you’re a fan of British television or interested in the stories behind your favorite shows, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet is a must-watch. Don’t miss the chance to experience this groundbreaking series for yourself—start streaming today and discover why it remains one of ITV’s most cherished programs.