BBC Unveils 10 New Comedy Gems Featuring UK's Biggest Stars

The BBC has announced a slate of 10 new and returning comedy shows, revealed by Director of Comedy Jon Petrie at the BBC Comedy Festival in Belfast. The broadcaster is championing affordable, distinctive British comedy, with a significant investment in new talent and productions across the UK, particularly in Northern Ireland.

Key Takeaways

• Ten new and returning comedy shows announced.

• Over £500,000 in additional funding for new comedy production in Northern Ireland.

• Emphasis on affordable, distinctive comedy with authentic voices.

• BBC reaffirms its position as the UK's largest investor in original comedy.

A Star-Studded Lineup

BBC Director of Comedy Jon Petrie unveiled a diverse range of upcoming programmes, highlighting the BBC's commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. 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 humorous side 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 turns to renting rooms to students to avoid financial hardship.

• 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 family holiday to Lapland takes an unexpected turn after a Christmas bonus must be repaid.

The festival also confirmed the return of popular shows such as Only Child, Funboys, The Young Offenders, and The Golden Cobra.

Boosting Northern Ireland Comedy

In addition to the network commissions, BBC Northern Ireland announced the commissioning of Leonard and Hungry Paul, based on Rónán Hession's acclaimed novel. This initiative is supported by over half a million pounds in additional, year-long funding ringfenced exclusively for new comedy production in Northern Ireland for 2025/2026. Eddie Doyle, Senior Head Content Commissioning BBC Northern Ireland, expressed enthusiasm for this investment, stating it demonstrates

Sources

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