Johnny Vegas Returns to Priesthood in Dark Comedy 'The Nine O'Clock Trot'

Johnny Vegas is set to star as 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, who previously trained for the priesthood, will play Father Adam in "The Nine O'Clock Trot.

• The drama explores themes of grief, social care, and the extreme measures people take for loved ones.

• Other upcoming "Play For Today" productions include "Village Idiot" and "Wild."

• The cast for the new "Play For Today" series includes Phyllis Logan, Paul Kaye, Joel Fry, and Archie Panjabi.

The Nine O'Clock Trot

"The Nine O'Clock Trot," penned by Joe McNally, centres on Annie (Kalli Tant), a recent graduate struggling after her grandfather's death. Facing an unaffordable funeral bill and lacking family support, she keeps his death a secret from council services. Desperate for a proper send-off, she turns to Father Adam, a priest grappling with his own issues. What begins as an act of love quickly 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" stars Phyllis Logan as Barbara, a fiercely determined grandmother who chains herself to her cottage to prevent its demolition by train developers. She finds herself in an awkward standoff with Max Harwood's character, Peter, the company's liaison who also happens to be her estranged grandson. The play, directed by Rhys Aaron Lewis, promises a blend of "laugh out loud comedy with genuine emotional punch" as it explores rural England on the brink of change.

Wild

Lewis Wren's "Wild" is a survival dramedy set in the Scottish Highlands, starring Daniel Mays, Joel Fry, and Amit Shah as three old friends whose annual camping trip devolves into a battle of egos and survival when they get lost and face dwindling supplies. Directed by BRICK, the film delves into the fine line between adventure and recklessness, and the impact of toxic masculinity on men's mental health.

Play For Today Revival

Channel 5's "Play For Today" strand, originally a BBC staple from 1970 to 1984, was revived last year. The upcoming series of six plays aims to build on the success of the initial revival, featuring a mix of established and emerging talent. Paul Testar, commissioning editor for Channel 5, expressed excitement about the "ambition and diversity" of the new lineup.

Sources

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