Crossroads (British TV series)

Crossroads was a British television soap opera that ran on ITV from 1964 to 1988, and again from 2001 to 2003. Set in a fictional motel, the Crossroads Motel (later renamed Crossroads Kings Oak), near Birmingham in the West Midlands, the series focused on the lives and loves of its staff and owners.

History:

Created by Hazel Adair and Peter Ling, Crossroads was initially conceived as a low-budget daytime drama. Despite facing criticism for its wobbly sets, amateurish acting, and often-implausible storylines, it quickly gained a large and devoted audience, particularly among housewives.

The original run from 1964 to 1988 saw a number of iconic characters come and go, with Meg Richardson (played by Noele Gordon) becoming the series' central figure. Her storylines, often involving romance and family drama, were a major draw for viewers. The show also featured memorable characters such as Benny Hawkins (Paul Henry), whose naive and well-meaning nature made him a fan favourite, and David Hunter (Ronald Allen), Meg's son.

In 1988, ITV controversially cancelled Crossroads in an attempt to revamp its daytime schedule. A final episode was broadcast featuring the destruction of the Crossroads Motel.

Revival:

In 2001, Carlton Television revived Crossroads with a revamped format, new characters, and a significantly increased budget. The revival attempted to modernize the series, introducing more contemporary storylines and a faster pace. However, it failed to recapture the magic of the original and was ultimately cancelled in 2003 after only two series.

Criticism and Popularity:

Despite being a target for critical scorn, Crossroads held a special place in British popular culture. Its perceived low quality became a part of its charm, and the show was often parodied. The series' popularity also led to spin-off books, merchandise, and even a stage adaptation.

Key Characters (Original Run):

• Meg Richardson (Noele Gordon): The matriarch of the series and owner of the Crossroads Motel.
• Benny Hawkins (Paul Henry): A lovable and naive handyman.
• David Hunter (Ronald Allen): Meg's son and a key figure in the motel's management.
• Jill Harvey (Jane Rossington): Meg's daughter, known for her complicated love life.

Impact:

Crossroads, despite its criticisms, remains a significant part of British television history. It demonstrated the potential of daytime soap operas to attract large audiences and influenced the development of subsequent series. The show's iconic characters and storylines continue to be remembered and discussed, solidifying its place in the cultural landscape.