BBC viewers pay tribute as soap that aired for over 20 years comes to an end

'End of an era'

Last October, the BBC announced the long-running daytime show was being axed as part of cost-cutting measures.

The show, which was first broadcast in 2000, follows the life of those working in an NHS doctor’s surgery.

However, the BBC confirmed last year that budget constraints meant the show was coming to an end.

And on Thursday, the final ever episode of Doctors aired. The final scenes saw corrupt GP Graham Elton (Alex Avery) confronted by his colleagues over his evil ways, which had put everyone on the verge of quitting.

Doctor Zara Carmichael (Elisabeth Dermot Walsh) was determined to oust Elton even though The Mill surgery faced closure. However, everything came to a happy conclusion in the end as not only was Elton given the boot but the entire staff decided to become partners and run the surgery as a collective, ensuring its survival.

After the final episode aired, some of the shows stars and fans took to social media to pay tribute to one of the BBC's most iconic daytime dramas.

A statement on the show’s official X account read: “After over two decades, Doctors won’t be taking any more appointments! To our incredible fans, thank you for joining us through thousands of stories, twists, and heartfelt moments. Your loyalty and love have made every step of this journey worthwhile. Thank you for watching!”

This prompted other the official accounts for Coronation Street and Emmerdale to both send their well wishes to all of those involved in the show.

The Corrie account said it was the "end of an era," whilst Emmerdale said: “Wishing you all the best.”

Actor Jamie Causer, who appeared in the show, wrote: “Had some of the best times working on this show. One of my favourite episodes was playing PC Liam McConnelly.”

Another former Doctors actor Kyle Lima said he would "treasure forever" his time on the show as DC Devon Newman, adding: "I learned to act for screen and built my confidence in doing so. It was invaluable and I loved it. What a great team to work with too.”

Writer Roland Moore said: “Farewell - and thank you for allowing me and so many writers to tell such a range of stories. The team is wonderful and always encouraged us to push the envelope. Proud of so many personal moments - including writing the first backwards episode of a UK soap opera.”

Fans seemed to be pretty satisfied overall with how the show came to an end, with one describing it as "brilliant", adding: "Thank you for all the years."

Someone else said: “I’ve got to say I love the natural ending... Didn’t feel like it was forced or fake.”

Another said: "My mum got me watching this show, and it's one of the best programmes i have ever seen. you tackled some of the hardest stuff, and represented it beautifully. Will miss tuning in everyday."

A fourth wrote: "Awful that this serial drama is ending. I used to love the characters and also the guest characters that came along sometimes big name actors. I wish the cast the very best and hope to see them on our screens again soon."

Doctors has been praised over the years as a soap where many actors and production staff cut their teeth when starting out in the world of television.

The likes of Eddie Redmayne, Emilia Clarke, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Claire Foy have all appeared in the soap in the past.