BBC Death Valley viewers 'switch off' over 'one of most annoying TV characters'
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Death Valley has been hit with a wave of criticism, with viewers reportedly "switching off" just minutes into the third episode.
The six-part drama, which aired its third instalment on Sunday, 8 June, stars Timothy Spall as John Chapel and Gwyneth Keyworth as DS Janie Mallowan, investigating the mysterious death of a best man.
However, despite drawing in viewers, it was for all the wrong reasons. Disgruntled fans didn't hold back in criticising the show on social media, with one irate viewer exclaiming: "What on earth is this rubbish?".
"#DeathValley No wonder everyone is talking about it... It's utter nonsense and woke to boot. Refund the BBC if this is the best they can churn out."
Another unhappy fan voiced their disappointment: "Heard it was bad, but blimey it's horrendously bad. The lead lady is so irritating and the script is painfully unfunny. A new low for BBC Sunday night viewing, absolutely horrendous," reports the Mirror.
For some, frustration reached its peak, leading them to switch off their televisions, as one viewer admitted: "Caught up with #DeathValley on BBC1. I love stuff starring Timothy Spall but just had to turn off after a few minutes due to the awful co-star detective played by Gwyneth Keyworth shouting all the time. She must be one of the most annoying TV characters ever."
Another viewer was left thoroughly unimpressed, taking to social media to express their disdain: "#DeathValley on BBC1 is one of the worst programmes I've ever sat through!".
Despite some harsh critiques, there are viewers who have found joy in the series, with one fan posting: "I know a lot of people seem to enjoy slagging off #DeathValley, and I admit that when I saw the initial trailer, I thought it looked poor.
"However, having binged the series the other day, I can quash my original reticence and say that I loved it. Daft, funny, cosy and Welsh."
Adding to the positive feedback, another viewer shared their enjoyment: "Enjoying #DeathValley too. It's Sunday night viewing and I remember 'By the Sword Divided' and 'The Pallisers' so this is quite fun."
Despite a mix of reviews, Death Valley has managed to pull in impressive viewing figures, as reported by the BBC. The show's first episode, which aired on 25 May, drew in a significant 2.9 million viewers on BBC One.
This strong debut marks the most successful launch for a new BBC Scripted Comedy in the last five years, surpassing Ludwig's premiere last September, which had an audience of 2.8 million.
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