Since its debut in 2000, Doctors has followed the fictional lives of NHS doctors, nurses, and receptionists, as well as their families and friends. Alongside these continuing story lines, they also have a story of the week which focuses on a patient and their individual life, usually for a one or two episode arc.

Because of these changing stories, series producer Peter Lloyd estimated that 800 actors are taken onboard for the series every year. The show has given a helping hand to some of Britain’s most celebrated stars, such as Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Eddie Redmayne, Sheridan Smith, Claire Foy, and Nicolas Hoult.

The BBC has explained their decision: "With super inflation in drama production, the cost of the programme has increased significantly, and further investment is also now required to refurbish the site where the show is made, or to relocate it to another home.

"With a flat licence-fee, the BBC’s funding challenges mean we have to make tough choices in order to deliver greater value to audiences."

The broadcaster has assured, however, that it "remains fully committed to the West Midlands and all of the funding for Doctors will be reinvested into new programming in the region.

"We would like to thank all the Doctors cast and crew who have been involved in the show since 2000. We know the crucial role Doctors has played in nurturing talent, and we will work to develop new opportunities to support skills in scripted programming."

The final episode of Doctors will air in December 2024, and the BBC says they are "working closely with BBC Studios to give it the finale it deserves."