THE BBC HAS SHARED THE VIEWING FIGURES FOR NEW COMEDY-DRAMA DEATH VALLEY FOLLOWING THE LAUNCH OF THE SHOW LAST WEEKEND, AFTER SOME VIEWERS COMPLAINED ABOUT THE FIRST EPISODE. JOEL LEAVER

Showbiz Reporter and TIANNA CORBIN TV Reporter 08:03, 29 May 2025Updated 08:05, 29 May 2025 BBC's latest offering, Death Valley, which started on the weekend, has unveiled its

viewership data amidst polarised opinions from audiences regarding its premiere episode. The series set against the Welsh backdrop introduces us to detective sergeant Janie Mallowan

(portrayed by Gwyneth Keyworth) and has-been actor John Chapel (played by Timothy Spall), who join forces in an unexpected twist to crack down on crime. Created by Paul Doolan, known for his

McGuinnessREAD MORE: Mastermind winner details unique first date after finding love on BBC show BBC's revelation confirms that the show’s first foray into living rooms garnered 2.9

million viewers during its prime time spot from 8.15pm until 9pm on BBC One—marking the highest debut audience for a new BBC Scripted Comedy in the last half-decade. Article continues below

This milestone slightly surpasses the viewer count of Ludwig when it premiered in September of the previous year, amassing 2.8 million. Featuring familiar faces such as Steffan Rhodri and

Melanie Walters from Gavin and Stacey in its line-up, Death Valley centres on the "unlikely crime-solving partnership" between washed-up actor John, recognised for his role as a

fictional sleuth, and police officer Janie, reports the Mirror. The show promises engaging dynamics with a descriptive tease: "They'd make the perfect crime-fighting duo - if only

they could get along!" The premiere of Death Valley was met with a polarised response on X despite its reported success in the ratings. Several individuals indicated an early dislike

for the show, with swift dismissals being shared online. One viewer expressed immediate displeasure, writing: "5 mins and switching off - this is AWEFUL soooooo baaad." Another

viewer switched channels abruptly stating: "Had to turn over." Echoing the sentiment, someone else remarked: "I only lasted 10 mins." There was a consensus amongst others

who found little to enjoy about the programme. Complaints kept coming as one critic mentioned: "Ten minutes in...boring...screaming unintelligible actors...no thanks." While

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." Comments continued

to critique the show, with another sharing: "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 everyone felt let down by Death Valley. Some viewers did speak out in support of the show. An enthusiastic fan praised it, saying:

"I really enjoyed that. Hilarious! Policing at its finest! #DeathValley. Well done all involved! :) I howled all the way through!" Another supporter took to the platform to commend

the show: "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." A third viewer shared high praise on social media, writing: "#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." Article continues below Another keen fan took to the internet to express their enjoyment, stating: "#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._