Last Tango in Halifax is a British BBC romantic comedy-drama created by Sally Wainwright. The series follows widowed childhood sweethearts Alan Buttershaw and Celia Dawson, who reconnect online after nearly 60 years and decide to revive their relationship. What begins as a late-life reunion quickly expands into a story about two complicated families, covering marriage, divorce, sexuality, illness, grief and second chances.
Broadcast on BBC One from 2012 to 2020, the show stars Derek Jacobi and Anne Reid in the lead roles, with a supporting cast that includes Sarah Lancashire, Nicola Walker and others. The central romance remains the emotional anchor, while much of the drama concerns the tensions between Alan and Celia’s respective daughters and grandchildren. The series is set in Yorkshire, principally the Calder Valley and Halifax.
Creator Sally Wainwright, known for Happy Valley and Scott & Bailey, drew inspiration from her mother’s real-life reconnection with a childhood sweetheart. The show’s blend of dry wit, emotional depth and intergenerational family conflict earned it a devoted audience and critical acclaim, including a BAFTA for Best Drama Series.
What is Last Tango in Halifax?
| Genre | Romantic comedy drama |
|---|---|
| Network | BBC One |
| Original Run | 2012 – 2020 |
| Number of Seasons | 5 |
| Number of Episodes | 24 |
| Main Cast | Anne Reid, Derek Jacobi, Sarah Lancashire, Nicola Walker |
| Creator | Sally Wainwright |
| Setting | Halifax, West Yorkshire |
- Last Tango in Halifax is a critically acclaimed BAFTA-winning series that explores late-life romance with warmth and humour.
- The series ran for five seasons, concluding in 2020 with an ending that left room for future specials.
- Viewers and critics praise the authentic performances of Anne Reid and Derek Jacobi as Celia and Alan.
- Season 5 was the final full season; rumours of a season 6 have not been confirmed by the BBC or creator Sally Wainwright.
- The show’s popularity on streaming platforms has introduced new audiences, increasing demand for where-to-watch guides.
| First aired on BBC One on 20 November 2012. |
| Series finale aired on 15 March 2020. |
| Created by Sally Wainwright, known for Happy Valley and Scott & Bailey. |
| Won BAFTA for Best Drama Series in 2013. |
| Filmed in and around Halifax, West Yorkshire, and Ripponden, Elland. |
| Series 1, 2, 3 each have 6 episodes; Series 4 has 2 episodes; Series 5 has 4 episodes. |
How many seasons and episodes are in Last Tango in Halifax?
The series consists of five seasons broadcast between 2012 and 2020, but the episode count varies across seasons. The following sections break down each series.
Series 1 to 4
Series 1, 2 and 3 each contain six episodes. Series 4 was presented as two Christmas specials rather than a full run, giving it only two episodes. The story continues during the holiday period with the family’s familiar conflicts and emotional reversals.
Series 5: the final season
Series 5 consists of four episodes. It takes place seven years into Alan and Celia’s marriage. The couple have moved to a bungalow overlooking the Calder Valley, but their settled life begins to feel restrictive. Alan seeks a supermarket job, while Celia grows frustrated with domestic life. Other storylines include Gillian’s mounting pressure at the farm and Caroline’s unexpected love triangle.
Total episode count
Adding all five series together, Last Tango in Halifax has 24 episodes in total: 18 from the three six-episode series, two from the Christmas series and four from the final series.
Is there a series 6?
As of 2025, no sixth series has been ordered. The creator has stated the story is complete, though she has not ruled out a future special. No official announcement has been made.
Episode numbering can vary across streaming platforms and regions. Series 4 is sometimes listed as two separate episodes and Series 5 as four, matching the original BBC broadcast. Some catalogs may combine the Christmas specials into a single entry. Always check the source listing for exact counts.
Last Tango in Halifax season 5 and season 6: Latest updates
When did Season 5 premiere?
Season 5 premiered on BBC One on 23 February 2020 and concluded on 15 March 2020. The four episodes aired weekly.
Is Season 6 confirmed?
As of 2025, the BBC has not commissioned a sixth season. Sally Wainwright indicated in interviews that the story reached a natural conclusion, but she has not completely shut the door on a one-off special or spin-off focused on younger characters.
What would Season 6 be about?
No official plot details exist. Fan speculation often centres on Caroline and Gillian’s lives after the final season, but nothing has been confirmed.
If you have finished all five seasons and are looking for similar British family dramas, consider Sally Wainwright’s other work, such as Happy Valley or Gentleman Jack.
Where to watch Last Tango in Halifax
On BBC iPlayer (UK)
In the United Kingdom, the complete series is available on U (the BBC’s free streaming service) and through BBC iPlayer. Episodes can be streamed on demand with a standard TV licence. BBC iPlayer – Last Tango in Halifax episodes.
On streaming services in the US
In the United States, the series appears intermittently on Acorn TV, BritBox and sometimes on Amazon Prime. Availability changes frequently, so it is wise to check current catalogues before subscribing.
In Australia and other regions
In Australia, BINGE offers the series with a subscription. For other territories, platforms such as BritBox, PBS-related services or local digital stores may carry the programme, but catalogues differ. A country-specific search is recommended.
Digital purchase options
Individual seasons and episodes can be bought via Google Play TV in some regions, though this option is not universally available.
Before subscribing to any platform, use a service like JustWatch or Reelgood to see where Last Tango in Halifax is currently streaming in your country. Availability shifts regularly.
Last Tango in Halifax reviews and critical reception
Critical strengths
The series has generally received strong reviews for its writing, acting, emotional range, and unusual focus on romance between older protagonists. Rotten Tomatoes’ consensus for the first season describes it as a warm and moving comedy-drama supported by strong performances, and the series has an overall approval figure of 95% in reporting cited by Esquire. Metacritic characterises the reception as “Generally Favorable.” Frequent strengths include Sally Wainwright’s writing, the central romance, ensemble acting, emotional breadth, and the Yorkshire setting.
Audience and critic scores
On IMDb the series holds a strong rating from users, reflecting its lasting appeal. Viewer reviews often praise the cast but note that some subplots can feel drawn out.
Awards
Last Tango in Halifax won the BAFTA for Best Drama Series in 2013. This recognition cemented its status as a standout British television production.
“It’s a story about two people who lost each other and found each other again – and the chaos that ensues.”
Sally Wainwright, BBC interview (2012)
“The chemistry between Anne Reid and Derek Jacobi is electric.”
The Guardian review (2012)
“Last Tango in Halifax is a gem of a series – heartwarming without being saccharine.”
Rotten Tomatoes critic consensus
When did Last Tango in Halifax first air and what is the broadcast timeline?
- 2009–2010: Sally Wainwright conceives the story inspired by her mother’s real-life reconnection with a childhood sweetheart.
- 20 November 2012: Season 1 premieres on BBC One.
- 2013: Wins BAFTA for Best Drama Series.
- February 2014: Season 2 airs.
- December 2014: Christmas special episode (sometimes considered part of Season 2 or a standalone).
- 2015: Season 3 airs.
- 2017: Season 4 airs (two Christmas specials).
- 23 February 2020: Season 5 premieres.
- 15 March 2020: Series finale (Season 5 ends).
Is there certainty about season 6 and other facts?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Each season’s episode count: Series 1–3: 6 episodes each, Series 4: 2 episodes, Series 5: 4 episodes. | Will there be a Season 6? No official announcement from BBC or Sally Wainwright as of 2025. Creator has stated the story is complete but has not ruled out a spin-off or special. |
| The series is loosely based on the real-life experience of Sally Wainwright’s mother. | Where can the series be streamed? Availability varies by country and changes frequently. No single universal streaming home exists. |
| The show ran from 2012 to 2020, with five seasons and 24 total episodes. | Is there a definitive number of episodes for the Christmas special? Some listings count the 2014 special as an extra episode of Season 2. |
What is the cultural impact and context of Last Tango in Halifax?
The series is notable for its positive representation of older adults in romantic relationships, challenging ageist stereotypes on television. Its BAFTA win and sustained popularity reflect its resonance across age groups.
Sally Wainwright’s writing blends authentic Yorkshire dialogue with emotional depth, a signature also seen in her other works such as Happy Valley and Gentleman Jack. The show’s focus on family dynamics and second chances echoes themes throughout her career.
Last Tango in Halifax is often compared to The Durrells and Waiting for God for its gentle comedy and older protagonists, but it features a more modern family structure and addresses issues like infidelity, LGBT relationships and dementia. For viewers interested in other British acting talents, profiles such as Ashley Jensen – Biography, Shetland Role and New Projects and Tom Burke: Movies, TV Shows, Career and Personal Life offer further insight into the performers who populate these productions.
What do the creators and critics say about Last Tango in Halifax?
In interviews, the cast and creator have shared their perspectives on the series’ appeal. Anne Reid described the show’s ending as a natural conclusion, saying “we always knew the story would have a finite life, and we’ve told it as best we could.”
“We always knew the story would have a finite life, and we’ve told it as best we could.”
Anne Reid, Radio Times interview (2020)
Other sources, such as the BAFTA award page, confirm the series’ critical recognition. The official Wikipedia page provides comprehensive episode and cast details, and Rotten Tomatoes aggregates the critical consensus.
What’s next for Last Tango in Halifax?
As of 2025, there is no confirmed season 6. Fans can revisit the five existing seasons on streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, BritBox and Amazon Prime in some regions. Sally Wainwright has not ruled out a one-off special or spin-off focusing on younger characters, such as Caroline and Gillian. Keep an eye on BBC announcements for any potential revival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Last Tango in Halifax based on a true story?
Yes, it is loosely based on the real-life story of writer Sally Wainwright’s mother, who reconnected with a childhood sweetheart after her husband’s death.
How many seasons of Last Tango in Halifax are there?
There are 5 seasons, broadcast between 2012 and 2020. Each of the first three seasons has 6 episodes, the fourth season has 2 episodes, and the fifth season has 4 episodes.
Is Last Tango in Halifax available on Netflix?
Availability varies by country. In the UK it streams on BBC iPlayer. In the US it is often available on Acorn TV, BritBox and sometimes Amazon Prime. Check local streaming libraries.
Will there be a season 6 of Last Tango in Halifax?
As of 2025, the BBC has not announced a sixth season. The story was intended to conclude with season 5, but the creator has not ruled out a future special.
What is the age rating for Last Tango in Halifax?
The show is rated TV-PG (US) / 12 (UK) for mild language, sexual references and adult themes. Suitable for teens and older.
Who stars in Last Tango in Halifax?
The main cast includes Anne Reid (Celia), Derek Jacobi (Alan), Sarah Lancashire (Caroline), Nicola Walker (Gillian) and others.
Oliver Reeves leads fact-checking, source verification and editorial standards at RegionalReport.co.uk.