BBC Comedy Festival Unveils Ambitious Slate of Affordable, Distinctive UK Humour

The BBC Comedy Festival, held in Belfast, has revealed a robust lineup of ten new and returning shows, underscoring a commitment to affordable, distinctive British comedy. BBC Director of Comedy, Jon Petrie, highlighted the corporation's significant investment in original content, emphasizing the enduring appeal of strong characters and sharp writing over elaborate production.

Key Takeaways

• Over half a million pounds in additional, year-long funding is ringfenced for new comedy production in Northern Ireland for 2025/26.

• The BBC remains the UK's largest single investor in original comedy.

• Eight out of the top ten scripted comedies last year were broadcast on the BBC.

• Focus remains on affordability, distinctiveness, and authentic voices in comedy creation.

New And Returning Comedy

BBC Comedy announced a slate of exciting new and returning programmes designed to entertain audiences across the UK. Among the new commissions are:

• Ann Droid (w/t): A sitcom starring Diane Morgan as a social humanoid robot designed to assist the elderly, exploring the intersection of technology and human connection.

• The Reluctant Vampire: A supernatural family sitcom featuring BAFTA winner Lenny Rush.

• Bill’s Included: Rob Brydon stars as a middle-aged divorcee who rents rooms to students to avoid financial ruin.

• Small Prophets: Created by BAFTA winner Mackenzie Crook, this series boasts a cast including Pearce Quigley, Sir Michael Palin, and Sophie Willan.

• Stuffed: Guz Khan plays an office worker whose Christmas bonus trip to Lapland takes an unexpected turn.

Additionally, audiences can anticipate the return of popular shows such as Only Child, Funboys, The Young Offenders, and The Golden Cobra. BBC Northern Ireland also confirmed the commissioning of Leonard and Hungry Paul, based on Rónán Hession's novel.

A Focus On Affordability And Authenticity

Jon Petrie stressed that great comedy relies on fundamental elements: brilliant characters, sharp jokes, and a unique voice, rather than expensive sets or large casts. He stated, "Our priority is to keep our shows affordable and distinctive, because comedy doesn't need explosions and continuous shots, it needs punchlines, authentic voices, and that gleeful point of view that no algorithm can touch."

This philosophy is supported by financial realities, with production costs rising. The BBC is refocusing its commissioning strategy to prioritize what is achievable and impactful, ensuring that investment directly enhances the humour and storytelling. Petrie noted that award-winning and popular comedy can be made on a BBC budget alone, emphasizing that audiences connect with compelling characters and writing.

Investment In Northern Ireland Comedy

Eddie Doyle, Head of Commissioning at BBC Northern Ireland, highlighted the unique comedic talent within the region. The commitment of over half a million pounds in additional funding for Northern Ireland comedy production for 2025/26 signifies a strong belief in local talent and aims to provide a significant boost to the sector, facilitating network commissioning for comedy-focused projects.

The Value Of UK Comedy

A forthcoming report on the value of the UK comedy industry is expected to confirm the substantial cultural and economic returns generated by British comedy, with the BBC leading as the primary commissioner. The report will also address financial headwinds and advocate for targeted tax relief to maintain global competitiveness. The BBC's strategy encourages creators to retain their intellectual property, allowing for long-term growth and revenue streams, as demonstrated by the success of shows like Ghosts.

Sources

• BBC Director of Comedy Jon Petrie unveils 10 star-studded new and returning shows, championing affordable,distinctive, UK comedy, BBC.

• Jon Petrie's Speech at the BBC Comedy Festival 2025, BBC.