BBC Comedy Festival Unveils Ambitious Slate of New and Returning Shows, Championing UK Talent

The BBC Comedy Festival, held in Belfast, has announced a robust lineup of 10 new and returning comedy programmes, underscoring the BBC's commitment to fostering distinctive and affordable British comedy. Director of Comedy Jon Petrie highlighted the importance of strong characters and unique voices, emphasizing that impactful comedy doesn't require extravagant production values.

Key Takeaways

• Ten new and returning comedy shows announced.

• Over £500,000 in additional funding ringfenced for comedy production in Northern Ireland for 2025/2026.

• Third cohort of the BBC Comedy Collective announced, supporting 10 mid-level creatives.

• BBC reaffirms its position as the largest single investor in original UK comedy content.

New and Returning Comedy Series

At the festival, Jon Petrie revealed several exciting new commissions, including:

• Ann Droid (w/t): A sitcom starring Diane Morgan as a social humanoid robot designed for elderly companionship, 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 man facing financial difficulties who rents rooms to students.

• Small Prophets: Created by Mackenzie Crook, this series stars 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.

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

Investment in Northern Ireland Comedy

Eddie Doyle, Senior Head Content Commissioning BBC Northern Ireland, announced over half a million pounds in additional, year-long funding specifically for new comedy production in Northern Ireland for the 2025/2026 period. This investment aims to bolster the local comedy sector and provide a significant boost for network commissioning opportunities.

The BBC Comedy Collective

In parallel, the BBC announced the 10 creatives selected for the third cohort of the BBC Comedy Collective. This bursary scheme provides mid-level writers, producers, directors, editors, and writer/performers with paid shadowing opportunities, development grants, and dedicated support from the BBC Comedy Commissioning team. The initiative aims to nurture the next generation of comedy talent, with previous participants having achieved BAFTA awards and secured significant broadcast credits.

The selected creatives represent diverse regions across the UK, including Wales, London, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the West Midlands, and the North East. The programme partners with various organizations, including BBC Northern Ireland, BBC Scotland, BBC Wales, BAFTA, and several screen agencies, to offer comprehensive development and networking opportunities.

Sources

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

• BBC Comedy announces 10 creatives joining the third cohort of the BBC Comedy Collective, BBC.