Holby City fans have set up a petition against the show being axed by the BBC after 23 years.
In a big TV shock earlier this week, it was announced that the long-running medical drama will air its last episode next year, with the BBC saying they were bringing the show to a close in order to 'reshape the BBC’s drama slate to better reflect, represent and serve all parts of the country.'
After thanking all of the show's cast and crew, a tweet from Holby City's Twitter account gave assurances that Holby City will continue to air on Tuesdays until March 2022, adding: "We promise that Holby will get the send-off it deserves. Thank you for your continued support and love for the series."
But the fact that there is still nine months of Holby, which has featured early TV appearances from the likes of Killing Eve's Jodie Comer and even Hollywood star Michael Fassbender over the years, to enjoy wasn't enough to dampen the anger of die hard fans, who immediately lashed out at the BBC for pulling the plug.
And they've taken their upset a step further by launching a petition, which has gathered close to 11,000 signatures in just two days.
Directed towards BBC Director General Tim Davie, it reads: "Holby City has millions of weekly viewers, and has won hundreds of awards. It is also one of the most diverse dramas on the BBC - bringing stories of real people across society, from all backgrounds and experiences.
"The combination of permanent characters and single episode characters offers a huge range of storylines, highlighting important issues and experiences in medicine and society.
"The show has raised awareness about so many issues of value to the public - whether that's mental health, bereavement, exploring faith or sexuality."
It adds: "If like me and my family, you care so much about this program please share and sign this petition.
"The pandemic has shown how highly the public value the NHS, and Holby City is an important representation of the work that the NHS does, and the issues the NHS and its staff and patients face."
After signing the petition, one fan commented: "Great programme & story lines. Ditch Casualty instead, not nearly as good," and another wrote: "If it's about Holby being shot at Elstree, why not move it to Cardiff. Would allow crossover with Casualty. It's not London-centric anyway because it's set in a fictional city."
