A fresh wave of comedy hits UK screens and airwaves

UK audiences are in for a treat this summer as a diverse range of new comedy programming launches across television and digital platforms. From animated detective capers to poignant robotic sitcoms and innovative audio series, the latest slate offers something for every viewer looking for a laugh.

Key takeaways

• Jon Hamm stars in the new animated mystery series Grimsburg, arriving on Sky One.

• Diane Morgan takes on a challenging physical role in the new BBC1 comedy Ann Droid.

• The Kiwi comedy series Kid Sister makes its UK streaming debut on ChaiFlicks.

• A new scripted audio series, You’ve Got Braille, launches to provide a humorous look at life with visual impairment.

Animated mystery in Grimsburg

Sky has secured the UK premiere of the FOX adult animated series Grimsburg. Starring Jon Hamm as the brilliant but socially inept detective Marvin Flute, the show follows his attempts to solve bizarre crimes while navigating complex family relationships in a town where everyone has secrets. The first season is scheduled to debut on Sky One on 31 July 2026, offering viewers a mix of surreal humour and traditional detective tropes.

Diane Morgan’s robotic turn in Ann Droid

BBC1 is set to air Ann Droid, a new six-part comedy co-written by and starring Diane Morgan. Morgan plays Linda, a reconditioned robot carer purchased to look after an elderly widow, portrayed by Sue Johnston. The series explores themes of loneliness and ageing with a comedic touch. Morgan revealed that the role was physically demanding, requiring her to remain motionless for extended periods to capture the robotic nature of her character.

Kiwi comedy and audio innovation

Streaming service ChaiFlicks has acquired the exclusive rights to the New Zealand series Kid Sister, a semi-autobiographical comedy created by and starring Simone Nathan. The show follows a 29-year-old woman navigating family pressure and secret relationships in Auckland. Meanwhile, the audio space is expanding with the release of You’ve Got Braille, a new scripted podcast from Hat Trick Podcasts. Featuring a star-studded cast including Steve Pemberton, the series uses comedy to explore the experiences of living as a blind person in a way that is both relatable and refreshingly honest.

Sources

• ChaiFlicks picks up Kiwi comedy Kid Sister for US, UK and Australia | News, C21media.

• Sky Picks Up Jon Hamm-Led FOX Animated Comedy ‘Grimsburg’ For UK Premiere | TV News, Geektown.

• New Scripted Comedy Audio Series Starring Steve Pemberton, Beyond The Joke.

• Diane Morgan reveals playing a robot for new BBC comedy gave her an ulcer, Mirror.