Channel 4's Most Iconic Theme Tunes Get a Piano Makeover

 

Channel 4, renowned for its innovative programming and unique approach to entertainment, is set to delight viewers once again with a musical twist that celebrates the return of a beloved show. In anticipation of the new second series of "The Piano," which is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, April 28th at 9 pm, some of Channel 4's most iconic theme tunes are undergoing a transformation – they're being rearranged and performed on the piano.

This musical celebration promises to add a new dimension to viewers' favorite shows. Imagine hearing the familiar melodies of Gogglebox, Countdown, Channel 4 News, and Come Dine With Me: The Professionals, interpreted through the elegant keys of a piano. It's a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation that aims to captivate audiences in a whole new way.

Leading the charge in this musical endeavor is Kodaline frontman Steve Garrigan, who has lent his talent to rearranging the hit song 'Perfect World,' which serves as the title music for Gogglebox. Viewers tuning in to the episode airing on Channel 4 tonight at 9 pm will have the pleasure of experiencing the opening and closing music of the BAFTA-winning series in a captivating piano medley for the first time.

But the musical magic doesn't stop there. Channel 4 News' beloved theme, 'Best Endeavours,' originally composed by Alan Hawkshaw, is also getting a piano makeover. Sunday's news bulletin, airing on Channel 4 at 6:30 pm, will feature a version of this iconic music rearranged and recorded by Phase Music and Universal Production Music.

Countdown fans are in for a treat as well, with the show's famous theme receiving a toe-tapping piano remix by Steve Holness and Pascal Wyse. This new version will grace episodes airing from Monday, April 29th to Friday, May 3rd. And let's not forget about the forthcoming series of Come Dine With Me: The Professionals, which will showcase new piano title music by Patrick Duffin in episodes airing from Monday, May 6th to Friday, May 10th.

Ian Katz, Channel 4's Chief Content Officer, expressed his excitement about this musical initiative, stating, "The Piano is that rarest of things, a TV show that makes people feel better about the world after watching it than they did before. We are spreading a little of that musical magic by replacing the theme tunes of some of our best-loved shows with specially recorded piano versions."

The new piano theme tunes will debut according to the following schedule:

• Gogglebox: Friday, April 26th at 9 pm. Music by Steve Garrigan, series produced by Studio Lambert.
• Channel 4 News: Sunday, April 28th at 6:30 pm. Music by Phase Music and Universal Production Music, programme produced by ITN.
• Countdown: Monday, April 29th to Friday, May 3rd at 2:10 pm. Music by Steve Holness and Pascal Wyse, series produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios.
• Come Dine With Me: The Professionals: Monday, May 6th to Friday, May 10th. Music by Patrick Duffin, series produced by Multistory Media, part of ITV Studios.

So mark your calendars and get ready to experience your favorite Channel 4 shows in a whole new light, as the soothing sounds of the piano usher in a new era of television magic. Don't miss out on the enchantment – tune in and let the music transport you to a world of wonder and delight.

Lioness Legends Ella Toone and Alessia Russo Team Up with Vick Hope for BBC Sounds Podcast

The Tooney & Russo Show promises an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the England camp like never before

BBC Sounds is set to welcome two Lioness legends, Ella Toone and Alessia Russo, as they team up with Radio 1's Vick Hope to launch their first-ever podcast series, "The Tooney & Russo Show." This exciting new venture will offer audiences an exclusive peek into the England camp like never before, promising a no-holds-barred conversation where nothing is off-limits.

Download the BBC Sounds app at https://amzn.to/3Qk1ogQ

Tooney and Russo, known for their unfiltered opinions and lively banter, will be joined by Vick Hope, who will take on the role of the ultimate 'third wheel,' asking the burning questions that fans have been dying to know. Listeners can also expect some juicy insights from Vick's own world of TV, radio, music, and more.

In the first episode, the trio delves into the story of how Tooney and Russo became best friends, discussing their wildly different tastes in music and food. Vick Hope doesn't shy away from addressing the whispers that circulated when Alessia made her move to Arsenal, ensuring that nothing is left unexplored.

Commenting on the new podcast series, Alessia Russo said, "Ella and I wore the same trainers to our first-ever England camp, and I knew since then that we would definitely go on to be best friends, so being able to host this podcast with her feels right! It's so exciting to be alongside Vick, who is such an icon, and I can't wait for the listeners to hear a new side to us."

Ella Toone added, "When we first met, I followed Alessia on Insta, and she never followed me back. I thought she's dead cool, she's funny, she's got nice shoes - so I was desperate to be her friend since we were 12 years old. I'm so happy we get to spend some quality time together and welcome Vick into the friendship on BBC Sounds."

Vick Hope expressed her excitement, saying, "Like so many people, I am absolutely obsessed with the Lionesses, so I hope the girls don't mind me third-wheeling, getting involved, and becoming the third best friend! I'm going to be asking all of the questions that we're desperate to know more about, so I hope the listeners on BBC Sounds enjoy hearing all the tea, just as much as I do."

Episode 1 & 2 of the Tooney & Russo Show will be available on BBC Sounds and on the BBC Sounds YouTube channel on April 29, with new episodes dropping weekly. This promises to be an entertaining and insightful journey for fans, offering a unique perspective on the lives of these two footballing stars.

BBC Two and iPlayer to Premiere Gripping New Series: Cold Case Investigators: Solving Britain’s Sex Crimes

 

BBC Factual has announced an unprecedented two-part series, "Cold Case Investigators: Solving Britain’s Sex Crimes," set to air on BBC Two and iPlayer. This groundbreaking series provides unprecedented access to the cutting-edge science used to identify suspects in previously unsolved sex offenses.

The show follows determined detectives from Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire’s Major Crime Unit as they reinvestigate unsolved sexual offenses dating back to the 1980s. Using the latest DNA techniques, this remarkable team is dedicated to bringing justice to victims whose cases have remained unsolved for decades.

With hundreds of thousands of unsolved sexual offenses across the UK, this dedicated unit has undertaken a pioneering forensic and investigative project. They are revisiting 5,400 unsolved rape and sexual assault cases from the last 50 years, harnessing the power of modern DNA techniques to identify perpetrators and provide closure to victims.

In this compelling series, viewers will witness the indomitable spirit of these detectives as they focus on three previously unsolved cases:

Three teenage girls attacked on their way home from school in the early 2000s.

A 16-year-old boy raped while walking home through a park in 1983.

A woman kidnapped and raped after getting into a taxi on the way home from a night out in 1993.

With an impressive 90% success rate in cases taken to court, this unit proves that there is no timescale on justice. The series prompts the question: what impact could be made if more police forces around the country undertook similar initiatives?

Tom Coveney, Head of Commissioning, Science, BBC, said: “I hope our viewers are inspired and captivated by the work of the cold case investigators in this series. The detectives’ skill and dedication and the meticulous work of the forensic scientists are extraordinary. But ultimately these investigations are about delivering justice for victims, and we’re incredibly grateful to the victims who’ve chosen to share their stories with our audience.”

"Cold Case Investigators: Solving Britain’s Sex Crimes," a 2x60’ series for BBC Two and iPlayer, is produced by Brinkworth Productions Ltd. It was commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual. The Executive Producer is Malcolm Brinkworth, the Series Director is Natasha Zinni, and the Commissioning Editor is Tom Coveney, Head of Commissioning, Science.

Stephen Merchant’s "The Outlaws" Returns with a Deadly Secret

The BBC has released new images from the upcoming series of the hit comedy-thriller "The Outlaws," created by award-winning writer and director Stephen Merchant. The series is set to return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer next month, promising another thrilling season.

Catch Up on previous series at https://amzn.to/3WaJMry

"The Outlaws" follows a group of strangers from different walks of life who are forced to come together to complete a community payback sentence in Bristol. As the third series begins, crime boss The Dean, played by Claes Bang (known for "Bad Sisters"), is behind bars awaiting trial. The Outlaws are moving on with their lives, but their peace is short-lived when one of their own returns with a deadly secret, throwing them back into mortal danger. With a murder manhunt closing in on the gang, they must prove their innocence before The Dean's case collapses, and he seeks revenge.

Returning to the series are Stephen Merchant ("The Office") as Greg, Rhianne Barreto ("No Escape," "Hanna") as Rani, Gamba Cole ("Soon Gone: A Windrush Chronicle," "Hanna") as Ben, Darren Boyd ("Killing Eve," "Trying") as John, Clare Perkins ("Silo," "The Wheel of Time") as Myrna, Eleanor Tomlinson ("Poldark," "The Couple Next Door") as Lady Gabby, Jessica Gunning ("Back," "Baby Reindeer") as Diane, Charles Babalola ("Black Mirror," "Shaka: King of the Zulu Nation") as Malaki, Tom Hanson ("Brassic") as Spencer, and the legendary Christopher Walken ("The Deer Hunter," "Dune: Part Two") as Frank.

"The Outlaws" is a Big Talk and Four Eyes production co-created by Stephen Merchant and Elgin James ("Mayans M.C.," "Lowriders"). Merchant also serves as an executive producer, director, and writer alongside Luke Alkin, Kenton Allen, and John Butler. Co-produced by BBC One and Amazon Studios, "The Outlaws" is distributed globally by BBC Studios for all three seasons.

Channel 4’s Tempting Fortune Returns for a Supersized Second Series with Paddy McGuinness

Voltage TV's highly successful reality format, Tempting Fortune, has been recommissioned for an eight-episode second series on Channel 4. Hosted by the charismatic Paddy McGuinness, the show's first series was one of Channel 4's most successful new launches last year, captivating audiences and becoming one of the most-watched shows of 2023 among 16-34-year-olds on Channel 4's free streaming service.

For more Paddy check out - https://amzn.to/3JvDueq

In this exciting new series, a fresh group of contestants will be transported to a tropical jungle location to face the ultimate test of willpower and honesty. Stripped of their comforts, they will rely solely on basic rations and survival gear. However, surviving the jungle is not the real challenge; it's resisting the tantalizing temptations that could transform their rugged jungle experience into a luxurious tropical getaway.

With a substantial cash prize at stake, contestants must resist spending any of it on luxuries if they want to take home their full share. While some are in it for the chance to win a life-changing sum, others are more interested in indulging themselves. Will the bonds formed between contestants convince some to resist temptation? Will those who give in come clean to the rest of the group? And will any of the prize money be left by the end of the adventure?

Paddy McGuinness, the show's host, commented: "Last series was full of backstabbing, betrayal, and sheer determination… but this time there are added twists! I'm thrilled to be back for an even bigger series, challenging a new set of brave, daring, and cunning contestants in the hot and sticky jungle. Let's see if anyone can resist my temptations!"

Steve Handley, Head of Reality & Entertainment at Channel 4, said: "Tempting Fortune has all the hallmarks of a classic Channel 4 format. It's the smart and mischievous love-child of an adventure series and a reality show, testing free will and human nature, often with hilarious consequences. I can't wait to see if our next batch of recruits can resist the irresistible temptations that Paddy has in store for them in the jungle."

Genna Gibson, Commissioner Editor, Reality & Entertainment at Channel 4, added: "It is fantastic news that Voltage and Paddy McGuinness are once again teaming up to deliver another exciting series of Tempting Fortune. Building upon the success of the first series, our new tropical jungle location will provide an even more challenging backdrop for our intrepid but somewhat unlikely explorers to dodge or succumb to their deepest desires. I, for one, can't wait to see what unfolds."

Tempting Fortune was commissioned for Channel 4 by Steven Handley, Head of Reality and Entertainment, with commissioning editor Genna Gibson. It is an 8x60' series produced by Voltage TV and GroupM Motion Entertainment. The executive producers are Sanjay Singhal and Jon Crisp for Voltage TV, with Melanie Darlaston for GroupM Motion Entertainment. Georgina Hinds serves as Showrunner. Cineflix Rights is the exclusive worldwide distribution partner for the format and series.

For those looking to embark on the adventure of a lifetime this summer, applications to take part are now open here.

https://shortaudition.net/adventureseries

Channel 4 General Election fronted by Guru-Murthy and Maitlis

Channel 4's upcoming General Election night coverage promises to be a spectacle, complete with heavyweight commentators, top-tier analysis, and some... interesting choices.

Firstly, let's talk about the hosts. Krishnan Guru-Murthy and Emily Maitlis are seasoned journalists, no doubt, but can they handle the unpredictability of a live election night? Well, if their experience is anything to go by, it's going to be a rollercoaster. Guru-Murthy has a history of asking the tough questions, and Maitlis, well, let's just say she's not afraid to challenge her interviewees.

But the real eyebrow-raiser here is the addition of The Rest Is Politics podcast hosts, Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart. Yes, you read that correctly. The same Alastair Campbell who was at the heart of Tony Blair's government and the same Rory Stewart who couldn't decide if he wanted to be a Tory or an independent. If there's one thing this election coverage needs, it's more political flip-flopping, right?

And let's not forget the inclusion of Gogglebox favorites. Because nothing says serious political analysis like getting the opinions of people famous for watching TV.

Cathy Newman will be at the campaign HQs for the Conservatives and Labour. Hopefully, she'll be able to keep track of who's promising what, but we wouldn't count on it.

Clare Balding will be on hand to break down the data. Because nothing makes sense of complicated political data like a sports presenter.

Of course, we can't forget Channel 4's Political Editor, Gary Gibbon, who promises "first class analysis." Well, we certainly hope so, Gary.

The program will be made by ITN Productions. Because who else would agree to this madness?

In a move that surprises no one, the coverage will also include "exclusively commissioned inserts from Gogglebox favorites." Because, apparently, watching people watch TV is now considered legitimate political commentary.

But fear not, because Louisa Compton, Channel 4's Head of News and Current Affairs, assures us that this is going to be "first class analysis." Well, Louisa, we certainly hope so. We're going to need it.

So, grab your popcorn and settle in, folks. It's going to be a wild ride. And remember, no matter what happens, at least we'll have Gogglebox to give us their hot takes.

Hope Street Returns with a Fresh Face and a New Mystery

Filming has commenced for the highly anticipated fourth series of "Hope Street," and this time, a new Police Inspector is taking charge in Port Devine.

For previous series of Hope Street see https://amzn.to/4bnwrRh

The acclaimed series celebrates local writing, acting, and production talent from Northern Ireland, showcasing the BBC's commitment to nurturing homegrown storytelling in its nations and regions.

Set in the fictional town of Port Devine on the Northern Ireland coast, "Hope Street" revolves around the local police department, which is relocating to new headquarters. Joining the cast this series is "Derry Girls" star Tara Lynne O'Neill, alongside Marcus Onilude from "Ted Lasso."

Tara Lynne O'Neill takes on the role of the new Police Inspector, Eve Dunlop. Inspector Dunlop, a character who left Port Devine many years ago, returns with her family to investigate a mysterious disappearance and rebuild bridges in the community.

Expressing her excitement about joining the cast, Tara Lynne O'Neill says: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining Hope Street and cannot wait to work by the sea. Port Devine, watch out!"

Filmed in and around County Down's picturesque seaside town of Donaghadee, "Hope Street" has garnered a dedicated fan base across the UK, the US, and beyond. Returning for this eight-part series are familiar faces including Kerri Quinn (Marlene Pettigrew), Niall Wright (Callum McCarthy), Aaron McCusker (Clint Dunwoody), Niamh McGrady (Nicole Devine), Finnian Garbutt (Ryan Power), Des McAleer (Barry Pettigrew), Rachel Tucker (Siobhan O'Hare), and Karen Hassan (Jo Lipton). More new additions to the cast will be announced soon.

The fourth series of "Hope Street" has been commissioned as part of the partnership between the BBC and Northern Ireland Screen, aiming to support the local screen industry and better represent Northern Ireland to audiences across the UK and internationally.

Eddie Doyle, Head of Content Commissioning, BBC Northern Ireland, comments: "It's great to be back in Donaghadee, filming a fourth series of Hope Street, and this time round we are welcoming a new family to Port Devine. I think Hope Street captures the humor and warmth of the people here, and I'm really looking forward to Tara-Lynne O'Neill, along with some other new faces, joining the cast."

The series has been a hit with audiences, with Helen Munson, Commissioning Editor, BBC Daytime, adding: "I'm thrilled that we'll be bringing the beautiful backdrop of Northern Ireland back for another series of Hope Street. Fans of the series will be delighted to see well-loved characters returning along with some new faces. With a brilliant mix of drama and crime solving, it's all going on in Port Devine!"

Jess O'Riordan, Commissioning Executive, BritBox International, also expressed her excitement about the new series: "We're delighted to be working with BBC and Long Story again on a fourth installment of Hope Street. BritBox fans of the show will be thrilled to return to stunning Port Devine for more crime-solving and gripping storytelling set against the backdrop of that beautiful scenery we've all come to know and love."

Behind the scenes, acclaimed producers Paul Marquess and Donna Wiffen from Long Story TV, known for their work on "London Kills" and "The Light in The Hall," lead the production. They are joined by co-creator Susanne Farrell ("Dirty God") and Producer John Fox.

Paul Marquess, from Long Story TV and one of the show's creators and producers, says: "It's all change in Port Devine as we return for series four of Hope Street - with a new Police Inspector and a new Police Station. What hasn't changed is Hope Street's unique mix of crime stories and warm character-led drama. We love making Hope Street – and we're delighted it's being enjoyed by audiences in Northern Ireland, the UK, and all over the world."

The fourth series of "Hope Street" promises to be heartwarming and funnier than ever, with a familiar but expanded cast that audiences at home and abroad will surely want to spend time with. Series three is currently broadcasting on Fridays at 1.45 pm on BBC One, and series one, two, and three are available to watch on BBC iPlayer and BritBox.