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The BBC has unveiled the viewing figures for its latest comedy-drama offering, Death Valley, following its debut over the weekend. The show received a varied response from audiences after
the first episode aired. Set in the picturesque Welsh countryside, Death Valley stars Gwyneth Keyworth as detective sergeant Janie Mallowan and Timothy Spall as retired actor John Chapel,
who join forces to crack criminal cases. Created by Paul Doolan, known for his work on the sitcom Trollied, the series has been likened to Ludwig and Death in Paradise. The six-part drama
premiered on BBC One last Sunday evening and will air its next episode this coming weekend, although all episodes are currently available on BBC iPlayer. The BBC has proudly reported that
the initial showing of Death Valley, which broadcast from 8.15pm to 9pm, captivated 2.9 million viewers on BBC One, marking the highest overnight audience for a new BBC Scripted Comedy in
half a decade. This figure surpasses the launch of Ludwig in September of the previous year, which garnered an audience of 2.8 million. Featuring Gavin and Stacey alumni Steffan Rhodri and
Melanie Walters, the series focuses on the "unlikely crime-solving partnership" between John, who once portrayed a fictional detective on screen, and Janie, a real-life police
officer, reports the Mirror. A synopsis teases their dynamic: "They'd make the perfect crime-fighting duo - if only they could get along!" The premiere of Death Valley has
elicited a polarised response on social media, despite the show's successful ratings debut earlier this week. Some viewers expressed their disappointment, with one stating: "5 mins
and switching off - this is AWEFUL soooooo baaad." Another viewer remarked: "Had to turn over." While a third shared: "I only lasted 10 mins." The sentiment was
echoed by others who were not taken by the new series. One individual commented: "Ten minutes in...boring...screaming unintelligible actors...no thanks." Another reeled: "Just
sat and watched the biggest heap of s***e ever and it's called #DeathValley that's 45 minutes of life I ain't getting back." However, some offered a more positive take,
with one person recently posting: "Shame #DeathValley had good potential. But it's so cringeworthy. Can't believe it was considered good Sunday night viewing. Can't wait
for #Ludwig series 2!!!" Yet, not all feedback was negative, as there were those who enjoyed the show. One fan enthused: "I really enjoyed that. Hilarious! Policing at its finest!
#DeathValley. Well done all involved! :) I howled all the way through!" Another viewer praised the show on the platform, adding: "Not everyone's cup of tea but I loved
#DeathValley. Quirky but most enjoyable, acting was superb by both lead actors. Full marks to all involved in this series - looking forward to more. Well done #BBC." One enthusiastic
fan posted: "#DeathValley is absolutely excellent. Getting the blend of comedy and drama right is very difficult - but the team have done it here. It can build a following. The
brilliant Brokenwood Mysteries from NZ is now in its 11th season. #DeathValley can follow a similar trajectory." Another viewer shared their positive feedback recently, saying:
"#deathvalley really enjoying the show. Easy going murder mystery. Think Death in Paradise but in Llandeilo. Nice to hear genuine Welsh accents on TV. Tidy." _DEATH VALLEY IS
AVAILABLE TO WATCH ON BBC IPLAYER._