Tim Vine quits 'Not Going Out' after six years?

Published May 18 2012, 10:18 BST  |  By Tom Eames

Tim Vine has reportedly hinted that he has quit BBC One series Not Going Out after six years.

The stand-up comedian explained that he is looking for "a change" after the sitcom was ordered for two more series.



BBC executives have reportedly renewed the show, with series six and seven taking the flatmates comedy into 2014, according to The Sun.

"I'm great friends with everyone on the cast and I've had a great time doing it but after five series I simply fancied a change," he is quoted as saying.

A friend of Vine - who plays lead star Lee Mack's best friend Tim in the series - added: "Tim loves the show and it has made him a big star. But he has now had enough. He's got lots of other work coming in and is keen to try other things.

"He's been doing the show for six years and has been through the highs and lows.

"But he figures he may as well quit while he is ahead and make the most of his popularity."

A BBC insider stated: "We'll be introducing some exciting new characters in the next series. It's now what might be termed a long-running sitcom. It has had several changes of cast along the way and has grown audience rather than lost it."

Not Going Out returned for a fifth series to BBC One last month.

Tim Vine told Digital Spy last year that he does not mind being described as a "family friendly" comedian.