River City: Our Story Brings Shieldinch’s Journey to a Close

Image BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

BBC Scotland is preparing to mark the end of River City with a special one-off documentary that looks back on the drama's long and influential run. River City: Our Story will celebrate the series as it bows out in Autumn 2026, closing the door on more than two decades spent in the fictional community of Shieldinch.

The hour-long documentary is being made by Solus Productions and directed by Tony Kearney, a familiar face to viewers who played Scott Wallace for almost ten years after the show launched in September 2002. For Kearney, the project carries a personal weight, returning him to the programme he helped shape from its earliest days.

River City: Our Story will revisit some of the most defining moments from the show's 24 years on screen. Members of the current cast will come together in their on-screen family groups to rewatch key scenes, share memories, and reflect on what it was like filming moments that became part of the show's history. The documentary will also feature behind-the-scenes footage captured as cast and crew prepare to shoot the final episodes at Dumbarton Studios, filmed earlier this year.

The programme will widen its focus beyond the studio gates by including contributions from the audience. Long-time fans will talk about the unexpected impact River City has had on their lives, as well as their memories drawn from more than 1,500 episodes filled with love, murder and humour on Montego Street. Details on how viewers can submit their stories are expected to be announced soon.

Gavin Smith, Commissioning Editor for Drama at BBC Scotland, described the documentary as a key part of the show's farewell. He said the team was delighted to be working with Solus on a celebration that offers a warm look back at Shieldinch, packed with memorable clips and stories.

Tony Kearney, who also serves as executive producer, reflected on the significance of the moment. Having appeared in the very first scene filmed for River City, he said being present to observe the final scene being shot would feel like a full circle moment and a genuine privilege.

A Solus Production for BBC Scotland, River City: Our Story is executive produced by Gavin Smith for BBC Scotland, Martin McCardie for BBC Studios and Jim Webster for Solus Productions. The documentary will air in Autumn 2026 on BBC iPlayer and BBC Scotland.