Escape to the Country Fans Frustrated as Celebrity Christmas Special is Replaced by Old Episode

Fans of Escape to the Country were left frustrated on Sunday evening (December 28) when the highly anticipated celebrity Christmas special failed to air on BBC One. Instead of the festive edition featuring sports legend Linford Christie, viewers were shown a regular episode originally broadcast in April 2022.

The aired episode followed a couple searching for their dream home on the Dorset coast as they sought a slower pace of life. With a budget of £550,000, they were looking for a property with three bedrooms, a dedicated workspace, a spacious kitchen, and close proximity to countryside walks and community amenities. Host Sonali Shah guided the couple through their house hunt, highlighting the value of local newspapers in fostering community spirit.

Confusion arose as TV guides reported conflicting information: some correctly labeled the episode as the Dorset special, while others listed the celebrity edition aired previously. Fans expressed their disappointment and bewilderment on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

One viewer wrote, “They changed the celebrity Escape to the Country episode. It was with Lingford [sic] Christie.” Another tweeted, “#escapetothecountry 4-year-old programme repeat. Sunday night entertainment at its best…” A different fan sarcastically commented, “BBC really spoiling us this evening with an episode of #escapetothecountry from 2021.”

Several viewers questioned the BBC’s decision. One exclaimed, “Are you kidding me @BBC? Am I really expected to watch an episode of Escape to the Country from 2021?? What the hell is going on?” Another asked, “@BBC Why is Linford Christie’s Escape to the Country not being shown?” The frustration was echoed by others who demanded the originally advertised episode.

Escape to the Country continues to be available to stream on BBC iPlayer for viewers who missed the initial broadcasts.