Comedian Lee Mack has finally spoken out about the future of the beloved BBC sitcom Not Going Out, putting an end to speculation that the show has been “shelved” for 2024.

The long-running series, which first hit the screens in 2006 and recently marked its 100th episode with a Christmas special in 2023, has been a fan favourite for years. Starring Lee Mack as a fictionalized version of himself alongside Sally Bretton as his on-screen wife Lucy, Not Going Out has garnered numerous awards and a dedicated fan base over its run.

However, Mack has now revealed that fans will have to wait a little longer for the show’s return. In an interview with The Sun, the 55-year-old comedian confirmed that Not Going Out will not be returning this year, marking the first hiatus in quite some time. He explained that the decision is not solely his, stating, “It’s not always my decision, these things. I just wait for someone to say, ‘There’s a bag of money, get on with it’.”

While disappointed fans may have to wait until 2025 for new episodes, Mack assured that discussions about the show’s future are already underway. Expressing his love for the series and its cast, he emphasized his desire to continue, saying, “I’d love to do more, I love doing it, it’s great fun, I love the cast.

Reflecting on the show’s origins, Mack shared how Not Going Out was initially conceived during a sketch show at the Edinburgh Festival, where a small sketch set in a flat evolved into a significant portion of the performance.

Additionally, Mack fondly recalled the late Bobby Ball’s portrayal of his on-screen father in Not Going Out, highlighting the uncanny resemblance to his real father. He reminisced about Ball’s comedic talent and the shock of his passing due to Covid-19.

As fans eagerly await the return of Not Going Out, all episodes of the series are available to watch on BBC iPlayer, offering a chance to relive the laughs and memorable moments from past seasons.