A double treat for comedy fans: BBC revives classic dinnerladies and launches new AI sitcom

The BBC is set to delight audiences with a dual focus on nostalgia and cutting-edge satire. While the iconic Victoria Wood sitcom dinnerladies prepares to make its triumphant return to the stage in early 2027, the broadcaster is simultaneously launching Ann Droid, a bold new series exploring the complexities of modern artificial intelligence.

The return of a canteen classic

• A brand-new stage adaptation of dinnerladies is scheduled to debut in February 2027.

• Comedy veteran Les Dennis will star as the maintenance man, Stan.

• The production is the first piece of Victoria Wood’s work to be commissioned by the Estate.

More than a quarter of a century after its initial broadcast, the beloved workplace comedy dinnerladies is being reimagined for the theatre. Originally created and written by the late comedy legend Victoria Wood, the sitcom followed the lives and workplace dramas of staff at the fictional HWD Components canteen. The upcoming adaptation, penned by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by Sean Foley, aims to capture the original programme's warmth, wit, and affectionate portrayal of working-class British life. Playing at the Grand Opera House York from 23rd to 27th February 2027, the tour promises to reunite audiences with classic characters like Bren, Tony, and Dolly.

Exploring artificial intelligence in comedy

• Ann Droid premieres on BBC One on 17 July.

• The series stars comedy heavyweights Diane Morgan and Sue Johnston.

• The plot centers on a grieving mother and her socially inept eldercare robot.

While one show embraces nostalgia, the BBC is also pushing ahead with a high-concept new sitcom titled Ann Droid. The six-part series, co-written by star Diane Morgan and Sarah Kendall, depicts the unlikely bond between Sue, a grieving mother, and Linda, a second-hand eldercare robot tasked with helping her live independently. Described by BBC Comedy Director Jon Petrie as a blend of 'heart and high-jinks,' the series provides a satirical look at the role of AI in modern society. Fans can catch the premiere on 17 July on BBC One, with all episodes becoming available on BBC iPlayer immediately following the broadcast.

Sources

• The Victoria Wood Estate announces the return of beloved sitcom Dinnerladies, Northern Arts Review.

• Diane Morgan's brand-new BBC sitcom with Royle Family's Sue Johnston gets first-look trailer, Digital Spy.