Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs Begin Filming BBC Comedy 'Better Later' — A Partnership 35 Years in the Making

Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs Unite for New BBC Comedy Series

After three and a half decades of friendship and a shared creative journey, Welsh acting duo Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs have officially begun production on their highly anticipated new BBC comedy series, Better Later. The six-part show is currently being filmed across various locations in Wales, including the breathtaking Bannau Brycheiniog — widely known as the Brecon Beacons — with the story set in the charming fictional Welsh village of Brynfach.

What Is 'Better Later' About?

At its heart, Better Later is a warm and witty comedy about two unlikely people finding connection at an unexpected time in their lives. The two central characters — both navigating significant personal upheaval — cross paths at a knee trauma clinic, where an improbable friendship begins to blossom.

Jones portrays Shelley Anne, a 55-year-old environmental health officer in the midst of a painful divorce, while Speirs plays Clive, a 60-year-old retired teacher learning to rebuild his life following the death of his wife. Together, the two characters offer a refreshingly honest and humorous look at reinvention, resilience, and the unexpected bonds that can form later in life.

A Creative Partnership Decades in the Making

For Jones, this project carries deep personal significance. Speaking about the production, she reflected warmly on her long-standing relationship with her co-star and co-writer.

"In a funny way, this show has been 35 years in the making — which is when I first met Steve," Jones explained. "It's not that we're slow writers, it's just that we've been up to other things. It's fantastic to be back in front of the camera with him again."

Speirs, never one to miss a comic opportunity, acknowledged the pair's natural on-screen chemistry — though admitted it comes with its own challenges. "Our first time acting together for quite a long time, Ruth makes me laugh more than anyone and I'm a terrible giggler," he said, joking that the shoot "could be a long one."

Reuniting After 'Stella'

This is not the first time Jones and Speirs have combined their talents on screen. The duo previously co-wrote and starred in Stella, a beloved BBC series set in a fictional South Wales valleys community, which ran successfully from 2012 through to 2017. Their reunion on Better Later is sure to delight fans who have long awaited their next collaborative venture.

Beyond their work together, both performers have enjoyed thriving individual careers. Jones is perhaps best recognised globally for her iconic role as Nessa in the hit sitcom Gavin & Stacey, while Speirs created and starred in The Tuckers, a comedy centred on a South Wales family. More recently, the pair appeared together on television last year, touring each other's hometowns and exploring the places that helped shape who they are today.

Release Date Still to Be Confirmed

While production is now well underway, the BBC has yet to announce an official broadcast date for Better Later. Fans of Welsh comedy — and of Jones and Speirs individually — will no doubt be eagerly watching for further updates as filming progresses.

With its roots in genuine friendship, authentic Welsh settings, and a story that celebrates second chances and new beginnings, Better Later already has all the hallmarks of a future favourite.