BBC Scotland has revealed that the beloved drama series, River City, will conclude next year after more than two decades on air.

The series, which premiered in 2002, is set to air its final season in Autumn 2026.

River City was based in the imagined town of Shieldinch and filmed on a specially designed set in Dumbarton.

The BBC states that the decision to end the long-standing drama is due to “a notable shift in audience preferences away from lengthy series and towards shorter formats.” Three new Scottish dramas have been unveiled from Balloon Entertainment, World Productions, and Synchronicity Films.

Hayley Valentine, Director, BBC Scotland, shares: “River City has been an incredible journey, and naturally, we will all feel a sense of loss as it concludes. The team has performed superbly, and I am aware they have ambitious plans for next year's finale. However, as viewing patterns evolve and competition grows fiercer, this is the opportune moment to invest in the new wave of impactful drama series from Scotland that will showcase storytelling across the UK. Our objective is to further elevate Scotland on the global drama stage—with a collection of top-tier productions that set the benchmark not only locally but also on an international scale.”

Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning at BBC Scotland, states: “We take immense pride in River City, and it is with deep regret that we have reached this challenging decision. I want to extend my gratitude to the River City team, both in front of and behind the camera, for their unwavering commitment to the show throughout the years. For over twenty years, River City has breathed life into drama on screen while also providing industry training at the grassroots level, and we understand that devoted fans of the show will be quite saddened by its departure. The series leaves a substantial legacy, and the new projects we have announced will create additional opportunities.

“Nevertheless, the media landscape is evolving rapidly, and as audience viewing habits shift, it’s crucial that we adapt accordingly. Our three new dramas, along with the return of beloved series, reflect the growing demand from audiences for stories rooted in Scotland that resonate throughout the UK…and beyond. We are excited to collaborate with outstanding production teams and remain committed to investing in Scotland’s creative sector.”

In reaction, Directors UK CEO Andy Harrower remarked: “This will be a severe blow to our members based in Scotland, who have faced considerable challenges in the past few years regarding consistent employment. The BBC has indicated that savings from this decision will be redirected to other Scottish productions. This must take place and should result in job opportunities for Scottish talent. We will hold the BBC accountable for this.”

The BBC has confirmed it will provide a “substantial increase in major drama productions set across Scotland”, utilizing the River City funding to initiate three new series: Counsels, Grams, and The Young Team. In addition to these new titles, Granite Harbour will make its return for a third season, filming in Aberdeen and Glasgow in the coming months. Shetland will be back for its tenth season, and Vigil for its third season, alongside the previously announced eight-part drama, Mint. “Together, these dramas will present a broader range of narratives crafted by Scots, about Scotland, and produced in Scotland for an audience across the UK.”

The BBC has announced its total investment in BBC drama from Scotland is “expected to exceed £95m cumulatively (2026-28).”

Counsels, Grams, and The Young Team were commissioned by Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning for BBC Scotland, and Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama.

The BBC also stated it will “collaborate with industry partners on a new talent training initiative in Scotland. A new framework for training will build on the successful training academy from River City and the ongoing efforts of other series to advance individuals into senior creative positions while also aiding and developing production teams.”