Fans of Gavin and Stacey were ecstatic when the highly anticipated finale aired on Christmas Day, bringing with it a heartwarming moment that left some viewers puzzled.
The episode, which wrapped up several loose ends from the previous special and featured the return of cherished characters, will undoubtedly be etched in fans’ memories for years to come. After a five-year wait to discover whether Smithy accepted or declined Nessa’s proposal, the latest episode centred around Smithy’s upcoming wedding to Sonia.
However, one particular moment during the wedding ceremony left audiences scratching their heads. As the entire cast reunited for a final time – including Gavin and Stacey, Pam and Mick, Pete and Dawn, Gwen, Brynn, Jason, and even ‘Dave Coaches’ – Oscar Hartland, who portrays Neil the Baby, the son of Smithy and Nessa, delivered a poignant rendition of The Beatles’ iconic song, Blackbird.
Although the performance seamlessly integrated into the episode, many wondered about its significance, reports . Upon delving into Oscar’s past television appearances, it was revealed that the young actor had previously competed in The Voice Kids the previous year, showcasing his remarkable vocal talent.
Television critic and broadcaster Scott Bryan explained earlier in the week: “Baby Neil, who was actually one of the… babies in Gavin and Stacey when it first debuted, he was in The Voice, and they loved him in The Voice, so that’s why he sings in the film.”
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The star plays baby Neil in the sitcom (Image: BBC)
During his 2023 appearance on the show, Oscar shared his aspirations beyond his acting roots, as reported by OK!
He explained: “People know me for being Neil the Baby in Gavin and Stacey, which I absolutely love, but now I want to be known for my music and singing.”
In a candid chat with The Sun, he reflected on his solo performance, saying: “It was weird being on the studio stage without the band, but I thought I’d just do what I do with the boys and hopefully get a result out of it. I went into it wanting Danny to turn, or Ronan. But it was really something.”
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Fans were perplexed by the song at first (Image: BBC)
Ruth Jones, famed for her role as Nessa, sent a video message brimming with support and in-character advice, remarking: “We knows what’s occurring, you’re on The Voice Kids. Don’t forget you takes after your mother when it comes to music.”
She added with Nessa’s trademark confidence: “Go out there and you smash it kid alright? Crackin’.”
Neil, the character played by Oscar, was born from a fleeting encounter between Nessa and Smithy, adding a twist to their complex relationship. He first graced television screens in the season two finale of ‘Gavin and Stacey’ back in 2008 and was last seen reuniting with the ensemble cast for the much-loved 2019 Christmas special.
The actor appeared on The Voice (Image: BBC)
Oscar was barely recognisable as he strutted down the red carpet at the Gavin and Stacey: The Finale screening in London, donning a white T-shirt, baggy jeans and a red star-patterned cardigan. Shifting his focus from his role as Neil, the star has ventured into the music industry.
He is the guitarist and co-frontman of South Wales band Redwood City and last year he even showcased his talent on The Voice Kids as a solo artist.
Gavin & Stacey is available to watch on IPlayer.