Lee Mack, the star and creator of the long-running BBC sitcom Not Going Out, has opened up about his plans for the show's eventual conclusion. Rather than planning a flashy finale akin to other popular sitcoms like Gavin and Stacey, Mack prefers a more understated approach. He envisions the show fading out gradually once it is time for it to end, suggesting a quiet withdrawal rather than a grand spectacle when the series reaches its conclusion — a kind of soft exit that mirrors the show’s low-key beginnings.

Currently, Lee Mack is in the process of writing the 15th and 16th series of Not Going Out, which has been on air for two decades. His perspective stems from a desire to maintain authenticity and integrity in the show's narrative, emphasizing that it will conclude naturally when the time feels right. He shared that he dislikes large fanfare for endings, reflecting on the trend of some shows making significant events out of their finales, such as the recent Gavin and Stacey Christmas special, which received much fanfare and publicity.

Mack believes that this approach would stay true to Not Going Out’s ethos, allowing the audience to savor the series as it slowly fades from the programming slate. He hints at the possibility of a Christmas special in the future, implying that the ending may not be abrupt but rather a gradual phase-out as the viewers adjust to its absence, signifying an end that feels natural rather than forced. This philosophy reveals a unique insight into his creative process and his understanding of audience expectations.