Johnny Vegas Returns to Priesthood for Dark Comedy 'The Nine O'Clock Trot' on Channel 5

Johnny Vegas is set to portray a troubled Catholic cleric in "The Nine O'Clock Trot," a dark comedy drama slated for Channel 5's revived "Play For Today" strand. The series also features "Village Idiot" and "Wild," showcasing a diverse range of comedic and dramatic talent.

Key Takeaways

• Johnny Vegas stars as a priest in "The Nine O'Clock Trot.

• The "Play For Today" revival includes "Village Idiot" and "Wild."

• Notable cast members include Phyllis Logan, Paul Kaye, Joel Fry, and Archie Panjabi.

The Nine O'Clock Trot

Johnny Vegas, who previously trained as a priest, will take on the role of Father Adam in "The Nine O'Clock Trot." The one-off production, written by Joe McNally, delves into themes of grief, social care, and the extreme measures people take for loved ones. The story follows Annie, a young woman struggling after her grandfather's death, who keeps his passing a secret to afford a proper funeral and turns to Father Adam for help. Their interaction spirals out of control, forcing Annie to confront her own limits. Directed by Harry Machray, the play is described as "honest, warm and darkly funny."

Village Idiot

Samson Hawkins' adaptation of his stage comedy "Village Idiot" features Phyllis Logan as Barbara, a fiercely determined grandmother who chains herself to her cottage to prevent its demolition by train developers. She clashes with Max Harwood, who plays the company's liaison and her estranged grandson, Peter. Their conflict escalates into a public spectacle, prompting both to re-evaluate the meaning of home and family ties. The play, directed by Rhys Aaron Lewis and featuring Angus Imrie, Kacey Ainsworth, and Kathryn Drysdale, promises a blend of "laugh out loud comedy with genuine emotional punch."

Wild

Lewis Wren penned the survival dramedy "Wild," starring Daniel Mays, Joel Fry, and Amit Shah. Set in the Scottish Highlands, the story follows three old friends whose annual camping trip devolves into a battle of egos, secrets, and survival when they become lost and face dwindling resources. Directed by BRICK, "Wild" explores the fine line between adventure and recklessness, and the impact of toxic masculinity on men's mental health.

The new "Play For Today" series, which includes other plays like "The Quiet Hour" starring Paul Kaye and Archie Panjabi, builds on the success of last year's revival. Channel 5's commissioning editor, Paul Testar, expressed excitement about the "incredible cast" and the "ambition and diversity" of the new line-up.

Sources

• Johnny Vegas returns to priesthood for dark comedy Nine O'Clock Trot, British Comedy Guide.