A heartwarming moment in the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special almost didn't happen, but for a last-minute email to Sir Paul McCartney. This pivotal scene, featuring a young actor's emotional performance, left the entire cast in tears and became a defining moment in the show's history.
The story begins with Oscar Hartland, a 16-year-old actor playing Neil the Baby, who was tasked with singing Blackbird by The Beatles during a crucial wedding scene. Hartland, aware of the importance of this moment, practiced tirelessly, knowing it could make or break the episode.
However, a budget constraint threatened to derail the plan. James Corden, who played Smithy, realized they couldn't afford the licensing fees for the song. Undeterred, Corden reached out to McCartney himself, explaining the significance of the scene and his desire to use the song without causing any offense.
McCartney's response was swift and generous. He waived the usual fees, touched by Corden's passion and the scene's importance. Within 20 hours, the song was cleared for use, and Hartland's performance became a highlight of the episode.
But here's where it gets controversial... The scene's impact was undeniable, with the Christmas Day finale becoming one of the most-watched scripted TV shows of the century. Official ratings showed a massive audience of over 19 million viewers within seven days of its release.
And this is the part most people miss... Hartland's connection to the role ran deeper than just acting. He revealed that he was one of the original babies used for the character of Neil, returning to the show ten years later to audition for the 2019 special.
Now, Hartland, a singer and actor, is embarking on his debut tour, nervous yet excited to share his music with the world.
So, what do you think? Was this scene a stroke of genius, or did it rely too much on a famous song to create an emotional impact? Let's discuss in the comments!
