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Monday 30 November 2020

COMPETITION: Win Billy Connolly's Great American Trail Blu-ray



Billy Connolly's Great American Trail is out on Blu-ray on December 7th

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 2 copies to give away,


Synopsis
Billy Connolly’s Great American Trail is an epic three part travelogue that sees the comedy legend going far off the beaten track into the places you’ve heard of but have rarely seen, as he follows the migratory trail of the Scots through America. 

Starting in New York and finishing in the heart of America, Nashville, Tennessee, this is a series bursting at the seams with music, football, gangsters, whales, real life moonshiners and not one but two, mad, bad and terrible presidents who both had Scottish parents! And they’re all tied up together in this incredible story of the land of the free, as seen through the eyes of our nation’s favourite comedian / On Blu-ray, DVD & Digital from 7th December 

Buy From Amazon at
https://amzn.to/2Jq5rsC


For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 14-12-20
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

Friday 27 November 2020

Channel 4 Commissions New Scripted Comedy Big Boys

Channel 4 has commissioned Big Boys, a new six-part comedy series from the award-winning Roughcut Television (Stath Lets Flats).

The funny and heart-breaking new comedy created, written and narrated by Jack Rooke centres on an unlikely friendship between sweet, shy, closeted Jack (Dylan Llewellyn, Derry Girls) and boisterous, laddish and ever-so-slightly mature student Danny (Jon Pointing, Plebs).

Jack has spent the past year at home with his wonderful, potty-mouthed mum. He's been grieving for his father and she for her husband, but the time has now come for him to take his place at the local uni.

There he meets his roommate Danny as the pair are thrown together during Freshers week, watched over by an entirely over-enthusiastic Student Union head. Jack and Danny are at significantly different places on the spectrum of masculinity but closely bond during the inevitable chaos and frenzy of a first year.

Big Boys is based on comedy writer Jack Rooke's award-winning live comedy shows 'Good Grief', 'Happy Hour' and 'Love Letters'.

Jack Rooke, creator and writer said: "As a kid I'd stay up late to sneakily watch something a bit 'queer' on Channel 4. I'd ask Dad: 'Why does that bloke have his face in that other bloke's lap?' and he'd grin and say, 'They're just having a fun time!!' Now I am thrilled to have my first comedy series with Channel 4, writing and narrating Big Boys, based on the teen years after losing my dad with all the ups and downs of grief, sexual discovery, freshers' week and making one very special best mate. (And I'll be sure to include some of my own 'fun times' too!)"

Channel 4 announces Jo Brand’s How to Stay Sane in a Mad World to get us through the winter ahead

2020, it's been quite the year, which is why Channel 4 has commissioned Jo Brand to take an alphabetic romp through the most creative and Covid-friendly ways to help us stay sane over the months ahead via Jo Brand's How to Stay Sane in a Mad World (w/t), 1x60' from Two Rivers Media.  

Let's face it banana bread was so last March and we're all slightly puzzled at the number of jigsaws we've managed to complete over the last eight months. The nights have drawn in and we need new ways to lift our spirits and keep us going through the low-key winter that's set to come. So from health to horticulture, QR codes to UV rays, and hibernation to isolation this is the A-Z guide that you never knew you needed.

Along with a host of famous faces and brimming with expert advice to keep you fighting fit and mentally strong Jo will have tips, quips and tonnes of takeout to hopefully make surviving a pandemic that little bit easier.

Louisa Compton, Head of News, Current Affairs and Sport says: "With coronavirus restrictions set to impact our lives for months to come – this guide will be the perfect companion to help us get through the gloomy winter months".

Jo Brand adds: "I did suggest we stop after A is for Alcohol and C is for Cake but I'm assured there are 23 more suggestions to follow so stay tuned."

Channel 4 announces Jack Thorne’s ‘Help’ starring Stephen Graham and Jodie Comer

Channel 4 has commissioned Roadkill producer The Forge in association with One Shoe Films to produce Help (w/t), a new 1x120' drama from the BAFTA award-winning writer Jack Thorne (His Dark Materials, National Treasure) and BAFTA award-winning director Marc Munden (The Third Day, Utopia).

Help, set in a fictional Liverpool care home, tells the moving story of the relationship between a young care home worker (Comer) and a patient (Graham), whose lives are changed forever by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic last spring.

Sarah (Jodie Comer – Killing Eve, Doctor Foster) is smart, but she's never fitted in, not in education and not in work. Her family told her she'd never amount to anything but she unexpectedly finds her calling as a carer at Sunshine Homes. Sarah has a special talent for connecting with the residents, including one in particular, 47-year-old Tony (Stephen Graham – Save Me, This is England). Tony's Young Onset Alzheimer's has left him living out his days in care as his mind slowly deteriorates. His illness causes periods of confusion and violent outbursts, which the other members of staff can't handle, but with Sarah he begins to build a real bond. Sarah's success at managing Tony and the other patients helps build her confidence and restore her self-belief.

Then March 2020 hits and everything Sarah has achieved is thrown into doubt with the arrival of the Coronavirus pandemic. She and her colleagues tirelessly fight tooth and nail, ill-equipped, poorly prepared, and seemingly left helpless by the powers that be. A determined Sarah goes to extraordinary lengths to protect those in her care, whose conditions make their suffering and isolation all the more traumatic. But the staff's unwavering commitment, compassion and heroic efforts can only do so much, and Sarah is pushed into a dark corner and desperately looks for a way out.

Caroline Hollick, Head of Channel 4 Drama says: "This extraordinarily powerful show is right at the heart of what Channel 4 drama is all about – it will shine an unflinching light on the terrible events of 2020 through telling us a compelling, heart-wrenching relationship story. And to have Jack Thorne bringing Jodie Comer and Stephen Graham to our screens, directed by Marc Munden and produced by The Forge, is a level of talent I would be lucky to even dream of."

Jack Thorne says: "About two years ago Stephen Graham came to me with an idea to write something for him and Jodie Comer. I tried to think of something and got nothing. Then this crisis happened, and we saw care homes getting squashed and battered by the government. It's been both a long process and a short one, trying to find a way to tell this story, the amazing thing has been sharing in working out the story with Stephen, Jodie, the amazing Marc Munden, Beth Willis and everyone at the Forge and Channel 4. 30,000 people have died unnecessarily in these care homes because of the indifference and incompetence of our government. Hearing the stories of those at the frontline, having people break down in tears on zoom in front of us has been incredibly moving and galling. Getting the story right will be incredibly important, we are aware of the pressure upon us, this has to be written and made with anger and precision. We hope we do it justice."

Marc Munden says: "It's a privilege to be working with Jack Thorne and The Forge again on so urgent a subject and to have the incredible honour of directing Jodie and Stephen. Help is an angry and immediate film with an unlikely tender relationship at its heart and it responds to the government's abandonment of care homes as a result of the pandemic, a Play for Today for our times."

Stephen Graham says: "Jack is one of the greatest and most truthful writers of our generation and in Help he has crafted a profoundly important piece of social realism. I've wanted to work with Jodie for ages, and together we're hugely passionate about shining a light on one of the biggest tragedies of our time and the people at the heart of it."

Jodie Comer says: "I am, of course, thrilled to finally be working alongside Stephen and the supremely talented Jack, Marc and those at Channel 4. For us to be able to explore such a relevant and emotive story through the eyes of such beautifully real characters, and in our home city of Liverpool, is a real honour. We're determined to do justice to so many of the untold stories and heroes that have been affected as a result of this crisis and to handle them with care."

Wednesday 25 November 2020

Noel Clarke and Ashley Walters return in Bulletproof: South Africa as three-part special comes to Sky One

After two hugely successful series of Sky Original, Bulletproof, Noel Clarke and Ashley Walters are reprising their roles as cop buddies, Pike and Bishop, for a special event, Bulletproof: South Africa. The three-part special, produced by Vertigo Films, is set to air on Wednesday 20 January 2021 on Sky One and NOW TV, and sees the boys take a much-needed vacation from their London day-job and head to Cape Town, South Africa.

Unfortunately for our two holidaymakers, things don't quite go to plan. While trying to relax after a tough year, Bishop, Pike and his family soon find themselves caught up in the frightening kidnap of a young girl. Having befriended the young girl's parents earlier that day, Bishop and Pike decide it's their duty to use their expertise to help the couple win their daughter back. The kidnappers demand an unreasonable reward for the safe return of the girl, but have no idea who they're now up against.

Paul Gilbert, Executive Producer for Sky, said: "We're really excited to see TV's favourite cop duo back in action, but transported from the mean streets of London to one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet. Played brilliantly by Noel and Ashley, Bishop and Pike will offer a New Year thrill ride to die-hard fans of the show and new viewers alike, as they navigate their way through an unfamiliar world to seek justice in their inimitable style."

Allan Niblo, co-founder of Vertigo Films, said: "I'm thrilled to have Bishop and Pike burst onto our TV screens with a ray of sunshine to brighten up any dull January. Expect carnage, mayhem and comradery as they take on formidable new enemies."

Bulletproof: South Africa is to air on Sky One on Wednesday 20 January 2021 and will also be available on streaming service and NOW TV.

Married at First Sight U.K. gets a major makeover for 2021

Wedding bells are ringing as Married at First Sight U.K. gets a major makeover for 2021, with the home-grown version of the global phenomenon making its way to E4.  

Taking inspiration from the hugely successful Australian version that gripped British viewers this summer, the new UK series will be a bigger, more explosive take on the format, following a fresh batch of singles as they search for love and a happy-ever-after with complete strangers.

Produced by CPL Productions, a Red Arrow Studios company, over 20x60' episodes the series will follow the couples as they meet for the very first time at the altar. Following the Australian format, rather than legal marriages, the couples will make a lifelong commitment to one another at a glamorous ceremony, overseen by a wedding celebrant, that includes guests, bridal gowns, dancing, speeches and cake.

After the ceremony and celebrations are over, true love is well and truly put to the test, as they embark on a luxurious honeymoon, before moving in with each other AND their fellow couples. Relationships will be put under the microscope, by fellow brides and grooms at weekly dinner parties – as well as by the experts, at recurring commitment ceremonies, where couples choose whether they want to stay in or leave the process.

All this and more will build to a dramatic series finale: glossy, high-stakes vow renewals, in which each couple must decide if they will recommit to their partner or go their separate ways.

Celebs Go Dating - The Mansion

Just when you thought it was safe to re-enter the dating pool, think again, as Celebs Go Dating is back and supercharged for 2021, it's bigger, bolder and sexier than ever. For the very first time, the celebs and their potential matches will all bed down together in one very plush mansion. There'll be dates, drinks and drama, and most importantly, there'll be nowhere to hide!

In this brand-new series, our single and unlucky-in-love celebrities will be heading off on a luxurious UK dating retreat where they will spend four weeks looking for love. But that's not all – for the first time in Celebs Go Dating history, our cameras will be following our celebs 24/7 as they try to navigate the choppy waters of modern dating.

Joining this supersized series will be Geordie lass Chloe Ferry, Love Island fave and dancing pro Curtis Pritchard, actor and Strictly Come Dancing runner up Karim Zeroual, Former Hollyoaks and Coronation Street actor Kimberly Hart-Simpson, socialite with razor sharp wit, Made In Chelsea's Sophie Hermann, Internationally renowned DJ Tom Zanetti and Ibiza's King of Ocean Beach Wayne Lineker.

As always, they'll be under the ever-watchful eyes of dating experts Paul C Brunson and Anna Williamson, ably assisted by Junior Client Coordinator and celeb confidante, Tom Read Wilson. Rob Beckett will also be back delivering his trademark humour as voiceover. Every hang up and hook up will be scrutinised like never before, as our celebs embark on this immersive search for true love.

Living with our lucky celebs will be a group of potential matches with whom the celebrities will go on a series of dates. But this time, whether they want to continue the romance, or cut all ties, avoidance won't be an option because face to face communication is the order of the day. But will the close proximity lead to committed couples, or romantic rivalry? If our celebs find themselves in any illicit liaisons, they certainly won't stay secret for long!

With plenty of new challenges, memorable dating excursions and more chances than ever to find the perfect connection, all-new Celebs Go Dating is sure to be its most dramatic series yet.

Upon joining the virtual dating agency Geordie Shore lass Chloe Ferry said

"I am absolutely buzzing to join the agency for the second time this year! I did the virtual series and loved the whole process but am now really ready for the agents to find me a proper match. Hopefully meeting face to face will help with feeling a real connection."

Love Island fave and dancing pro, Curtis Pritchard said:

"I'm so excited to join the celebs go dating agency. I'm really looking forward to learning more about myself. I can't wait to see who the agents set me up with. I have not been on many dates in my life, so I'm super exited to explore the dating scene, hopefully I'll find my version of the perfect woman"

Actor and Strictly Come Dancing runner up, Karim Zeroual said:

"Sadly, this year I came out of a long-term relationship, but I feel ready now to start dating again and throw myself in the deep end. Hopefully the agents are going to help me find the girl of my dreams!"

Former Hollyoaks and Coronation Street actor, Kimberly Hart-Simpson said:

"I've joined the agency because I'm 33, still live with my mum and don't know why I'm still single. I've been putting myself out there, and joined pretty much every dating app going, so not sure what I'm doing wrong. Hoping Anna and Paul will help me figure that out and find my perfect match (whatever gender!)"

Made in Chelsea's Sophie Hermann said:

"2020 has definitely been a bleak year for dating, how many socially distanced park walks can one go on?! I've joined the agency to hopefully find love and not have to spend another lockdown alone. I think the agency will have their work cut out for them, mainly due to my lack of filter and pickiness, but I am putting all of my trust into their hands."

Internationally renowned DJ, Tom Zanetti said:

"I don't have a girlfriend; all my businesses have shut down and I've been asked to live in a mansion full of gorgeous women and crazy characters for a month. ERMMM, SIGN ME UP!"

Ibiza's King of Ocean Beach, Wayne Lineker said:

"After being single for over 2 years, I am so ready to meet somebody I can hopefully spark a romance with. I've heard great things about the agency, and that Anna, Paul and Tom give sound advice. I'm excited to see the potential dates that the agents bring to the table, and hopefully learn a few things about myself along the way."


Celebs Go Dating will return to E4 in early 2021.

Monday 23 November 2020

COMPETITION: Win Marcella - Series 1 & 2 Box Set DVD



Marcella - Series 1 & 2 Box Set is out now on DVD

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and a copy to give away on DVD

This Christmas, ladies lead the way in Acorn Media International’s outstanding array of bingeworthy Box Sets, from super sleuths to awesome army heroes and miraculous medics, there’s something for everyone. With more than 20 years in the business, Acorn Media continues to blaze a trail in Box Set gifting, offering the best entertainment in DVD Box Sets of best loved TV series that will enthral and entertain for a lifetime.



Synopsis
Marcella is a multi-stranded crime drama from international superstar screenwriter and novelist Hans Rosenfeldt (The Bridge). Set in contemporary London and starring Anna Friel, Marcella centres on the psychological struggles of a Metropolitan police officer at a crisis point in her life, driven by rejection and intuition. In Series One, while investigating the murder of her husband s mistress, she is unnerved by what she discovers deep within her and harbours a dangerous suspicion that far from solving crimes she might be right at their heart. Series Two sees Marcella investigating the murder of a friend of her son and with so much at stake, both personally and professionally, she is finding it harder and harder to keep her violent fugues under control.


Buy From Amazon at
https://amzn.to/2Hsqlql

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED


Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 07-12-20
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

Friday 20 November 2020

Coronation Street unveils official 60th anniversary cast photograph

Coronation Street unveils official 60th anniversary cast photograph to celebrate the programme reaching this broadcasting milestone. And there has never been a cast image quite like it!

The shot had to be taken adhering to the Government's health and safety guidelines for TV and film production and the covid protocols and measures introduced by the programme which meant all of the actors in the portrait were photographed at different times.

Previous photography to celebrate the show's big milestones has featured all the cast, starting with the famous black and white shot to launch the first episode.

With the pandemic meaning that large gatherings are not possible a decision was taken to represent the show by photographing the first seven of the current cast to join the soap alongside the most recent seven actors to have appeared on screen as a regular cast member.*

Over a period of two weeks the actors were photographed individually in a covid secure studio and then cleverly photoshopped to give the impression of being together.

Finally, with a nod to the show's history Hilda Ogden's iconic ducks from her 'muriel' were added to the image, complete with wonky middle one!

The following actors appear in the photograph:

William Roache (Ken Barlow) - 9 December 1960

Barbara Knox (Rita Tanner) - 2 December 1964

Helen Worth (Gail Platt) - 29 July 1974

Sue Nicholls (Audrey Roberts) - 16 April 1979

Michael Le Vell (Kevin Webster) - 19 October 1983

Sally Ann Matthews (Jenny Connor) - 6 January 1986

Sally Dynevor (Sally Metcalf) - 27 January 1986

Ryan Russell (Michael Bailey) - 12 June 2019

Lorna Laidlaw (Aggie Bailey) - 12 June 2019

Jane Hazelgrove (Bernie Winter) - 24 July 2019

Mollie Gallagher (Nina Lucas) - 11 November 2019        

Adam Hussain (Aadi Alahan) - 15 April 2020

Tony Maudsley  (George Shuttleworth) -16 September 2020

Gareth Pierce    (Todd Grimshaw) - 7 October 2020

The Chase unveils new Chaser Darragh ‘The Menace’ Ennis

ITV's The Chase unveiled its sixth Chaser - Darragh 'The Menace' Ennis.

Darragh joins the award-winning series' formidable quizzing pros Jenny 'The Vixen' Ryan, Shaun 'The Dark Destroyer' Wallace, Mark 'The Beast' Labbett, Anne 'The Governess' Hegerty and Paul 'The Sinnerman' Sinha.

Dubbed 'The Menace' by host Bradley Walsh, Darragh, 40, is an Oxford-based scientist who hails from Dublin. His Chaser attire sees him sport a velvet paisley print jacket and bolo tie.

He previously appeared on the show as a contestant, facing Paul in 2017.

Of turning Chaser to join the smash hit series, Darragh said: "I'm so pleased to be the sixth Chaser. It's brilliant to be on such an amazing quiz team, and so much fun working with Bradley Walsh. It's such an exciting opportunity and I can't wait to take on more contestants!"

Host Bradley Walsh added: "Another Chaser? ANOTHER CHASER? That's another person cleverer than me on The Chase. I must have words with the producers. But I can't wait to educate Darragh on the important things in life; custard creams, cowboy films and real ale."

Aisling Bea’s award-winning comedy This Way Up returns to Channel 4 for second series

Aisling Bea's Merman-produced comedy co-starring Sharon Horgan has been commissioned for a second series (6 x 30) for Channel 4 and Hulu. Bea took home the Breakthrough Talent BAFTA Craft award for writing series one earlier this year.

In the forthcoming series, viewers can expect more bittersweet sister-related shenanigans, including ill-advised trips to infra-red saunas, and possibly another sung duet... to give the people what they want.

Series two is set after the events of the series one finale, with things in flux for Aine (Aisling Bea, Living With Yourself; Quiz) and her sister, Shona (Sharon Horgan, Catastrophe; Military Wives).

Aine's starting to leave her time in rehab behind and live less cautiously, which may not be entirely wise. Will she and Richard (Tobias Menzies, The Crown; Game of Thrones) make a cheeky go of it? Or continue to exist in the odd tension of the employer-employee dynamic? Or is emotional risk the "sexy bit"?

At the end of series one we saw Shona newly engaged after Vish's (Aasif Mandvi, Evil; The Brink) proposal, despite sharing a stolen kiss with business partner, Charlotte (Indira Varma, Game of Thrones; Luther). How will Charlotte and Shona manage running a new business together after *that* kiss? Will Shona be able to go through with marrying Vish? Planning a wedding? Can she tell him what happened? Is there anything more to tell?

Despite the sisters' numerous ups and downs, This Way Up centres on the unshakable bond between Aine and Shona and their passionate, caring, often-angry, always-hilarious relationship. In the darkest moments, when faced with overwhelming loneliness and sadness, the two sisters will always save each other and bring each other back into the light.

Creator Aisling Bea said: "I am over the moon that our little baby This Way Up gets to grow up and start school. Thanks to its grandparents Channel 4 and Hulu for paying its school fees and to my wonderful team, crew and cast for helping bring it to life the first-time round.  I was so overwhelmed by the love and support for the show.

The themes of loneliness and vulnerability seemed to connect in a far more widespread way than I had anticipated, and it feels particularly relevant writing series two during the last few months. I was so touched by the people from different countries, ages, genders and backgrounds who have gotten in touch to share their stories since the show has aired. I'm entirely grateful to be working and to be able to get our brilliant team back to work too, even though it is odd as hell filming during a worldwide pandemic. Our priority will be to keep our crew and cast safe and healthy whilst also staying creative and trying to make the best show we can.

I hope you love seeing where Aine and Shona have moved on to. In the meantime, thank you to everyone who has offered myself and Sharon large record deals since hearing us sing Zombie and please wear a mask literally, but drop your metaphorical one."

Wednesday 18 November 2020

The Royal Variety Performance 2020

Jason Manford to Host this Year's Royal Variety Performance in Blackpool

Comedian, actor and singer Jason Manford is to host The Royal Variety Performance at the historic Blackpool Opera House in the Winter Gardens Complex. His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales will deliver a special message to the charity and the artistes performing in the show, as he looks forward to this exceptional evening of entertainment.

Returning to the North after nine years, the show promises to be an unforgettable evening of exceptional performers, world class British theatre and superb comedy, plus some exciting surprises.

2020's stellar line-up includes the inspirational and much-loved Captain Sir Thomas Moore who captured the nation's hearts with his fundraising efforts during the pandemic. He will be joining forces from his home for an exclusive performance with legendary singer and entertainer Michael Ball who will be on stage at the Opera House with the NHS choir to perform their chart-topping anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. Plus a special solo appearance by British superstar Gary Barlow.

The evening will also herald the welcome return of musical theatre with an exclusive performance from the award-winning Sheridan Smith as Cilla in the heart-warming and spectacular Cilla The Musical and a mesmerising exclusive from Frozen the Musical starring leading lady Samantha Barks.

There's more music from Brit Award winner and rising star Celeste, singer and Spice Girl Melanie C and high energy choreography from the eternally popular Steps.

Magic from much loved TV presenter Stephen Mulhern, a phenomenal performance from West End sensation Marisha Wallace as well as a high octane and jaw-dropping performance from Kenyan acrobats The Black Blues Brothers.

Also taking to the stage with a specially composed and heart-warming performance, musical comedian and Britain's Got Talent 2020 winner Jon Courtenay. Plus more comedy from stand ups Jo Caulfield and Daliso Chaponda.

Jason Manford said: "After appearing at the Royal Variety Performance three times since 2009, it is an honour and a privilege to be hosting the show this year. It's been a hugely difficult year for everybody, so I hope that for a couple of hours on a cold Winter's night in Blackpool, we can take people's minds off things and do what us Brits do best; have a laugh.

The event is staged in aid of the Royal Variety Charity, whose patron is Her Majesty The Queen. The money raised from the show helps those people from the world of entertainment in need of care and assistance.

The star studded spectacular will be screened on ITV in December.

Channel 4 confirms Stand Up and Deliver celebrity line up

Channel 4 has today confirmed the five plucky celebrities who are set to be thrust into the often-unforgiving world of stand-up comedy for Stand Up and Deliver, an entertaining new two-part series in support of Stand Up To Cancer.

Broadcaster and Reverend Richard Coles, Happy Mondays frontman Shaun Ryder, former Conservative Party Co-Chairwoman Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, Love Island's Curtis Pritchard and former Coronation Street actress Katie McGlynn will each be paired up with an established comic who'll mentor and train them in their attempt to master the art of stand-up comedy.

David Baddiel will coach Reverend Richard Coles, Jason Manford will be tasked with shepherding Shaun Ryder, Nick Helm will guide Baroness Warsi, Judi Love will be in charge of Curtis Pritchard and Zoe Lyons will champion Katie McGlynn.

Comedy is no laughing matter; it takes great skill and timing to deliver a stand-up routine. The professionals have years to perfect their art whilst these celebrities have just weeks. The five famous faces will be tasked with perfecting their routine alongside their celebrity mentor before performing in a special stand-up performance. Who'll have the last laugh and get top-billing as Stand Up and Deliver Champion?

Tuesday 17 November 2020

ITV commissions four-part crime drama, The Long Call

ITV commissions The Long Call, a four-part crime drama adapted by Kelly Jones and produced by ITV Studios label, Silverprint Pictures

ITV's Head of Drama, Polly Hill, has commissioned The Long Call from ITV Studios label, Silverprint Pictures.

The drama will be produced in association with ITV Studios, who are handling international distribution.

The evocative and gripping four-part event drama is inspired by the best-selling novel of the same title from award-winning writer Ann Cleeves, creator of the iconic Vera and Shetland series. Des and Baptiste screenwriter, Kelly Jones, will write all four episodes in her first solo series.

The character-led, atmospheric crime drama is driven by an intriguing and flawed protagonist, Detective Inspector Matthew Venn, who has returned to live in a small community in North Devon with his husband, Jonathan.  It's a place Matthew walked away from 20 years ago, after being rejected by his family.

Commented Polly Hill:

"I'm delighted that ITV is working with Silverprint Pictures to bring another of Ann's brilliant novels to screen. It's very different to Vera, but I think audiences will take to DI Matthew Venn and this compelling story in the same way. Kelly has written a wonderful adaptation and this promises to be a really distinctive and original new crime series."

We first meet the reserved, but intense Matthew Venn outside the local church as his father's funeral takes place. Sadly, the day Matthew turned his back on the strict evangelical community in which he grew up, he lost his family too.  

Now he's back, not just to mourn his father at a distance, but to take charge of his first major murder.  A body has been found on the beach near to Matthew's new home: a man with the tattoo of an albatross on his neck, has been stabbed to death.

Through Venn and his team's investigation, we are introduced to a wonderfully rich ensemble of characters, in a compelling crime story which captures the stark beauty of the North Devon coastline, and a community where murder and intrigue bubble beneath the surface.

Written and adapted by Kelly Jones (Baptiste, Des, Call The Midwife, The Good Karma Hospital) with Silverprint Pictures' Creative Director Kate Bartlett (Flesh and Blood, Shetland, Vera, Dark Heart) executive producing the series. Angie Daniell (Vigil, Alex Rider, Clique) will produce the series with Lee Haven Jones (Dr Who, Shetland, The Bay) directing each of the four episodes.

Commented Kate Bartlett:

"After almost a decade working together, we are thrilled to be continuing our creative partnership with Ann. The Long Call is a rich and deeply engrossing mystery with a whole host of new Cleeves characters led by the inimitable Matthew Venn. Just as the novel feels like a progression of Ann's writing, this feels like the opportunity to create a unique and ambitious event crime drama with a wholly iconic character at its heart."
   

Monday 16 November 2020

Jim Sheridan and Sky Studios examine murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in new documentary series



Six-time Oscar® nominee Jim Sheridan (My Left Foot, In The Name of the Father) is to make his documentary series debut with Murder at the Cottage: The search for justice for Sophie, a new five-part series that examines the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in West Cork in 1996. The documentary series is produced by Hell's Kitchen in association with Sky Studios, the studios' first in-house documentary series, and features access to those closest to the case, including Sophie's family and key suspect Ian Bailey.

In 1996, two days before Christmas, Sophie, the wife of French filmmaker Daniel Toscan du Plantier, was brutally murdered at her holiday cottage in Schull, West Cork. The murder rocked the quiet, Irish town and 24 years later, the case remains a mystery. The key suspect, English journalist Ian Bailey – the first reporter on the scene – was quickly arrested by local police following eye-witness reports, yet was never found guilty in Ireland, owing to a lack of reliable evidence. Despite this, Bailey was found guilty in absentia by the French courts in 2019 and sentenced to 25 years in prison. Having successfully fought repeated extradition requests from the French authorities, Bailey still resides in West Cork and maintains his innocence to this day.

Sheridan, who narrates the documentary and appears on-screen, will take viewers on a journey as he unravels the unsolved case that has haunted West Cork for almost 25 years The series pieces together original evidence, never-before-seen footage and interviews with those closest to the case as Sheridan tries to make sense of what happened that night; all set against the rural landscapes and wilderness of his home country.

First look at Dawn French as Beatrix Potter & Harry Tayler as Roald Dahl in the Christmas Sky original Roald & Beatrix: The Tail Of The Curious Mouse

Beatrix Potter sat at her famous writing desk, gazing through a snow-covered windowpane and Roald Dahl hiding in the potting shed. Just three of the first look images of Dawn French as Beatrix Potter and the all-star cast of the upcoming Sky original Roald & Beatrix: The Tail Of The Curious Mouse.

The uplifting 90-minute comedy drama airing on Sky One and streaming service NOW TV will form the key highlight of Sky's festive schedule.

Roald & Beatrix: The Tail Of The Curious Mouse, is inspired by the true story of when a six-year old Roald Dahl set off on a big adventure to meet his favourite author, Beatrix Potter. It's a magical story of what can happen when you are brave enough to follow your dreams…

Joining Dawn French will be a cast including Jessica Hynes, Rob Brydon, Alison Steadman, Nina Sosanya, Bill Bailey and Nick Mohammed, and introducing Harry Tayler as the young Roald Dahl.


COMPETITION: Win Upright on DVD - Starring Tim Minchin



Upright  is released on DVD on November 23rd

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 3 copies to give away on DVD

Synopsis
INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED, award-winning all-rounder Tim Minchin (Matilda the Musical) turns his hand to TV with another winner, writing and starring in eight-part Aussie road-trip comedy drama Upright. The hit series comes to DVD and digital on 23 November 2020 courtesy of Acorn Media International after airing to unanimous praise on Sky Atlantic last year.

Minchin leads the irreverent series as the ironically named Laclan “Lucky” Flynn, a down-on-his-luck middle-aged man road-tripping across Australia to deliver an old upright piano to his dying mother. In a dramatic twist of fate, his path collides with teenage runaway Meg (Milly Alcock – A Place to Call Home, The Gloaming), who has some secrets of her own.

Set against a backdrop of stunning outback scenery, this unlikely pair throw in their lot with each other and slowly reveal, through a series of quirky happenings along the way, what each of them might be running away from, and what it is they’re seeking on the road.

Juggling grief and complex family dynamics with gleefully dark humour, and with the touching surrogate father-daughter relationship that develops between the duo at its heart, this series “begs to be binged” (★★★★ Pilot TV), and now you can do just that, either Upright, horizontal, or anywhere in between.


Buy From Amazon at
https://amzn.to/3lzXTlf

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

Which actor plays Laclan “Lucky” Flynn in Upright?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 30-11-20
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

COMPETITION: Win All Creatures Great & Small on DVD



All Creatures Great & Small is released on DVD on November 23rd

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 3 copies to give away on DVD

Synopsis
BELOVED CLASSIC All Creatures Great and Small – based on the life and times of veterinary surgeon and writer James Herriot (aka James Alfred Wight OBE) – gets a brand spanking new remake with all the charm of the original, arriving on DVD 23 November 2020 courtesy of Acorn Media International, following its record breaking run on Channel 5. Launching to a whopping 5 million viewers, the series is their #1 British drama ever and highest rated programme so far this year.

Newcomer Nicholas Ralph plays the young vet who is taken under the wing of renowned veterinary surgeon Seigfried Farnon (Samuel West – Darkest Hour, Mr Selfridge) in the stunning countryside of 1940s Yorkshire.

As James settles in to rural professional life, he must prove himself and his credentials under Siegfried’s watchful eye, all whilst trying not to be distracted by Siegfried’s unruly younger brother Tristan (Callum Woodhouse – The Durrells, Cold Feet), stern housekeeper Mrs Hall (Anna Madeley – Deadwater Fell, Patrick Melrose), and beautiful farmer Helen Alderson (Rachel Shenton – White Gold, Hollyoaks) with whom romance may be on the cards…

Featuring a menagerie of guest stars including screen legend the late Diana Rigg (Game of Thrones, Victoria), Nigel Havers (Chariots of Fire, Coronation Street), Matthew Lewis (Harry Potter, Ripper Street), Philip Gascoyne (The ABC Murders, Peaky Blinders) and Naomi Radcliffe (Three Girls, Coronation Street), our vet heroes must handle everything from horses with injured hooves, feline mix-ups, milk-fever, Mrs Pumphrey’s Pekingese Tricky Woo, and of course classic calfing scenes, there’s something for every animal lover.

All Creatures Great and Small will love this feel-good, fun family show.

Buy From Amazon at
https://amzn.to/3lClEsG

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

Which actor plays Seigfried Farnon in All Creatures Great & Small?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 30-11-20
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

Friday 13 November 2020

First look image arrives from the outskirts of outerspace for brand new Sky original drama, Intergalactic, landing on Sky One and NOW TV in 2021

First look image for brand new Sky original prison break drama, Intergalactic which imagines life 'off-earth' and is bound for Sky One and TV streaming service NOW TV in 2021. 

The first look image give viewers a taste of what to expect from this high octane drama from Eleanor Tomlinson (Poldark), Thomas Turgoose (This is England), Sharon Duncan-Brewster (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Sex Education), Natasha O'Keeffe (Peaky Blinders, Misfits), Savannah Steyn (The Tunnel, Wannabe), Oliver Coopersmith (Tin Star), Imogen Daines (Black Mirror), new comer Diany Samba-Bandza (Jack Ryan), Parminder Nagra (Bend It Like Beckham, ER) and Craig Parkinson (Line of Duty) against the backdrop of the galaxy.

Written by award-winning showrunner, Julie Gearey (Prisoners' Wives, Cuffs, Secret Diary of a Call Girl), the series tells the story of fearless young cop and galactic pilot, Ash Harper (Steyn), who has her glittering career ripped away from her after being wrongly convicted of a treasonous crime and exiled to a distant prison colony. But on the way there, Ash's fellow convicts stage a mutiny and seize control of their prison transfer ship. With the flight crew dead, mob leader Tula Quik (Duncan-Brewster), is intent on reaching the free world – Arcadia – with her gang; and Ash is the only pilot who can get them there. Ash is forced to join them on the run towards a distant galaxy and an uncertain future. From the fringes of outer space to the depths of human emotion, Intergalactic is a drama set in space, but with its feet firmly on the ground.

Jordan Banjo & Dr Sara Kayat to present new health & weight loss pilot

Channel 4 has commissioned a Jordan Banjo & Dr Sara Kayat fronted pilot from Manchester based Flying Saucer Television, marking the Gobstopper backed company's first commission for the broadcaster.

Lose Weight Like Me is an inspirational new format that introduces two people who want to make a dramatic change to their lifestyle to four 'health heroes' – members of the public who have done just that, each losing up to 200lbs on safe and sustainable weight loss plans combining a mixture of diet and exercise.

The four 'health heroes' are in the studio, each hidden behind pictures of what they used to look like before changing their lives and their habits. The contributors will only get to meet them if they choose them as their mentor and select to follow their tried and tested weight loss plan, approved by a leading dietician. Having followed their new plan for up to eight weeks, the two contributors will share their results with Jordan and Dr Sara.

Jordan Banjo, who has first-hand experience at overhauling his own lifestyle having shed over 10 stone, and Dr Sara Kayat will be there every step of the way to help the contributors understand how particular plans may be right for them and to help motivate them to succeed at becoming healthier.

Tuesday 10 November 2020

ITV commissions new drama Manhunt II: The Night Stalker starring Martin Clunes

ITV's Head of Drama Polly Hill today confirmed commission of a sequel to the critical-ly acclaimed drama Manhunt, starring Martin Clunes as the former London Metro-politan Police detective, DCI Colin Sutton.

Manhunt II: The Night Stalker, a four part drama, is the real life story of the police pursuit of a notorious serial rapist, whose 17 year reign of terror left thousands of el-derly people in south east London living in fear. It is based on the diaries of Colin Sut-ton.

Acclaimed actor Martin Clunes will again take the role of DCI Sutton, the detective portrayed in the first series of Manhunt tenaciously pursuing serial killer Levi Bell-field.

The first series of Manhunt attracted an average audience of nine million viewers, and was the highest rated new drama on any channel during 2019. The drama also won many plaudits for Martin Clunes' portrayal of the dedicated detective.

Manhunt II The Night Stalker is written by Ed Whitmore (Silent Witness, Rillington Place, Strike Back), who also wrote the first series of Manhunt, which told the real life story of how the murder of Amelie Delagrange on Twickenham Green in 2004 was eventually linked to the murder of Marsha McDonnell in 2003 and the abduction and murder of Milly Dowler as she travelled home from school in 2002.

Both dramas are produced by Buffalo Pictures. The executive producer is Philippa Braithwaite, the producer is Jo Willett, the co-producer is Evie Bergson-Korn, the di-rector is Marc Evans. The stories are by Colin Sutton and Ed Whitmore, who is also an executive producer.

ITV2 - I'm A Celebrity...The Daily Drop hosted by Vick Hope

Exclusively available on the ITV Hub will be I'm A Celebrity…The Daily Drop. A brand-new series hosted by Vick Hope dissecting all the camp activity and behind the scenes gossip.

I'm A Celebrity…The Daily Drop brings you the latest gossip and exclusive content direct from Gwyrych Castle in North Wales. Joining presenter Vick Hope each episode are a stellar panel of ex-campmates and celebrity superfans who will delve, debate, and dissect all of the daily action from the camp.

New episodes will drop on the ITV Hub every morning after the main show. It will also get a repeat airing on ITV2 later that same day.

Monday 9 November 2020

Geri Horner transforms into Queen Elizabeth I in YouTube series launch for Rainbow Woman

Geri Horner (née Halliwell) has launched her YouTube series Rainbow Woman with a grand tribute to one of Britain's most iconic Girl Power figures, Queen Elizabeth I. Watch below.

In a personal message to her fans, Geri pens:

"Hello you,

For the last twenty-five years, we've been on an amazing journey together.
I want to share something from my heart… something real, something I hope will inspire.
Rainbow Woman is my love letter to you. It's about sharing our spirit.

I'm taking you on a girl power adventure of discovery. Together, we go up a mountain,
down the river and back in time ... and with music I wrote, it'll be a 360 experience,
for you, for us, for everybody. Thank you for being there for me. I want to be here with you ... for all the rainbow people.

With love, Geri."

Written, directed and executive produced by Geri, Rainbow Woman is a collection of vibrant vignettes following her on big and little adventures, each hued with humour and their own message of hope and positivity. A new episode will be unveiled every Sunday on Geri's YouTube channel with bonus content for fans to follow. 

Ben McOwen Wilson, Managing Director, YouTube UK said: 
"Geri is an icon of British female creative achievement and we are so proud that Rainbow Woman is launching on YouTube. Suitably, the series launch is a grand tribute to one of Britain's most iconic Girl Power figures, Queen Elizabeth I. Rainbow Woman is a great example of diverse Britain and the incredible creative content that we love."

Before we go forward, Geri takes us back in time. On its debut episode, 'Queen Speaks', she undergoes a regal transformation to pay homage to Queen Elizabeth I – the Queen of Girl Power and a 'Rainbow Woman', who ruled England for 45 years. The Queen was a lyricist, she enjoyed Shakespeare, and writing poetry. Her most symbolic portrait was of course titled, The Rainbow Portrait. Ever an avid storyteller and lover of English history, Geri shot the episode in Ashridge House, where Princess Elizabeth – the future Queen Elizabeth I – lived until she was arrested by her sister Queen Mary in 1554. This picturesque episode was shot in collaboration with BAFTA-winning cinematographer Laurie Rose, who has worked on Peaky Blinders and Riviera.

Rainbow Woman will also feature some new, original music by Geri, who has written several unforgettable hits that have soundtracked our lives with the Spice Girls and as a solo artist.



ITV commissions a second series of Rolling In It

ITV has commissioned a second series of the popular game show, Rolling In It.

Produced by Over The Top Productions, the gameshow proved a hit with viewers and was regularly the most watched show of the evening attracting a peak audience of 4.2 million.  

Presented by Stephen Mulhern, three contestants play alongside some of their favourite celebrities in a bid to go home with a big cash prize, but they need to have luck on their side because everything could change on the roll of a coin.

Three teams - made up of the player and their celebrity partner - have to roll a coin down a moving conveyor belt towards slots which are labelled with large cash sums to win, but they must avoid the dreaded 'Bankrupt' slots which mean the player loses everything.

As the game progresses, the money values get larger, but so do the penalties. The roll of one final coin determines whether the contestant leaves empty handed or goes home 'Rolling In It.'

Stephen Mulhern said: "I thoroughly enjoyed making this series and I am delighted that the viewers loved it as much as I did and that we will get the chance to do it all again.  I can't wait to get started."

Rolling Updates: I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!

Series overview

I'm A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! returns which can mean only one thing… the time has come for a brand new cast of celebrities to battle it out in TV's toughest entertainment challenge.

This year the show will be filmed at the historic Gwrych Castle, Abergele in North Wales.

Ant & Dec will host an adapted version of I'm A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! live every night on ITV from the castle. As on the regular series, viewers will see the celebrities undertake gruelling trials and fun-filled challenges to win food and treats in the lead up to one of them being crowned, for the first time ever, King or Queen of the Castle.

Last year's highlights included Caitlyn Jenner giving Ant & Dec the silent treatment after a messy Bushtucker Trial, Roman Kemp's celebrity impressions, Andy Whyment and Cliff Parisi's hilarious entrance into the Jungle via Ol' Dingo Town and Jacqueline Jossa being crowned Queen of the Jungle.



The ten celebrities heading into the Castle for the new series are:

TV Presenter – Vernon Kay
Broadcaster & Journalist– Victoria Derbyshire
Star of Stage & Screen – Shane Richie
Paralympic Gold Medallist – Hollie Arnold MBE
Radio 1 DJ – Jordan North
Corrie Icon – Beverley Callard
Ballroom Dancer – AJ Pritchard
Author & Podcaster – Giovanna Fletcher
Olympic Legend – Sir Mo Farah CBE
Soap Star – Jessica Plummer

Thursday 5 November 2020

Birds of a Feather Christmas special

Much loved hit comedy Birds of a Feather will return to ITV for the first time in three years for a brand-new one-off extended Christmas episode.

It's been three years since we last saw the Birds, after Tracey reluctantly sold the house they all shared to Dorien. At the end of a 2020 no-one could have predicted, we catch up with the inhabitants of our favourite Essex address… and find big changes in all their lives. Tracey and Dorien have been getting right on each others' thruppennies, while Sharon has escaped to the other side of the world and is stuck on a Covid-cruise…  Who can fill the Sharon-shaped hole in their lives this Christmas?

Linda Robson and Lesley Joseph reprise their roles as Tracey Stubbs and Dorien Green with guest star Les Dennis as Dorien's new flame Graeme, a cameo from Curtis Walker and Ami Metcalf as Jordan, a young friend of Tracey's who's looking forward to a miserable lockdown Christmas.  Unfortunately, Pauline Quirke will not be taking part in this Christmas special as she's stepping back from acting to focus on her 200 nationwide performing arts academies.

Lesley Joseph said "I'm so excited to be putting Dorien's high heels back on for a Christmas special of Birds.  It's been 3 years since viewers last saw us and Dorien's only gone and got herself a new man! We all need a laugh right now and I promise this special will deliver the festive goods!"

Linda Robson said "I'm so happy we have a new Birds adventure.  Trace and Dor have been at loggerheads with each other for months, will it be a peaceful Christmas in Essex?! The script for this special is brilliant, I promise we'll have lots of laughs for fans of the show."

Channel 4 commissions new series of Chatsworth House from ITN

Channel 4 has commissioned ITN Productions to make a new six-part series, Chatsworth House, for More 4. The series follows on from the highly successful Christmas at Chatsworth House on Channel 4.

Filmed throughout 2020 at the historic Derbyshire Treasure House that provided the inspiration and iconic backdrop for Pride and Prejudice, Chatsworth House is a unique insight with unprecedented access to Britain's best loved stately home during extraordinary times. Each episode links stories and characters from this great house, the garden, parkland and the wider 35,000 acre estate.

Chatsworth is the seat to the Cavendish family and all Dukes of Devonshire since 1549. After the trials, tribulations and triumphs of 2019's wettest Christmas on record, this series follows the 12th Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, their community of over 700 staff, and visitors through what could prove to be the stately home's most challenging 12 months in its 500 year history.

With the beginning of the 2020 season directly impacted by coronavirus, this moment in history - plus a hectic annual calendar - is seen through the eyes of those who live and work there. With a host of characters, humour, enchanting history and, of course, the Duke and Duchess, this series delves below the surface of this British institution that is now a modern phenomenon.

Will Smith, Executive Producer, ITN Productions, said: "We have been allowed unprecedented access to the Duke and Duchess and the estate during one of the most challenging year's in its history. Despite all the upheaval life at Chatsworth has gone on - adapting and flourishing in the face of a national crisis.  I'm sure viewers will warm to Chatsworth's stoicism and good humour throughout this new series."

Becky Cadman, Commissioning Editor at More 4 added: "This has not been a usual year for anyone but never more have we appreciated the parks, gardens and wide open spaces open to us. In this brand new series, the cameras will go behind the scenes to reveal how one of the best known and most loved stately homes is responding to a year of turmoil and how it is preparing for a very different Christmas."

Tuesday 3 November 2020

Shelley Conn, Natalie Gumede, Sharon Rooney and John Thomson join the cast of ITV’s McDonald & Dodds

Shelley Conn, Natalie Gumede, Sharon Rooney and John Thomson, have joined the cast for the second film of ITV's McDonald & Dodds, alongside leading actors Jason Watkins and Tala Gouveia.

Filming is underway on the second series of the contemporary detective drama following the success of the feature-length films which aired earlier this year on ITV, produced by leading independent production company, Mammoth Screen, an ITV Studios company.

The new series sees Tala Gouveia (Cold Feet) and BAFTA award winning actor  Jason Watkins (The Lost Honour Of Christopher Jefferies, The Crown) reprise their roles as the smart and ambitious DCI McDonald and the humble, and quietly brilliant DS Dodds in three new murder mysteries. They are joined in the second film by guest cast members Shelley Conn (Liar), Natalie Gumede (Strike), Sharon Rooney (My Mad Fat Diary) and John Thomson (Cold Feet).

Returning cast includes James Murray as Chief Superintendent Houseman, Jack Riddiford as DC Darren Craig with Lily Sacofsky joining as DC Milena Pachiorkowski.

Set in picturesque Bath, the series pairs feisty DCI McDonald, who has recently transferred from London's Met Police, with the unassuming DS Dodds, who has been happy in the background for most of his working life. To McDonald's surprise they form an unexpectedly effective crime solving partnership.

The second film, entitled We Need To Talk About Doreen, stars Sharon Rooney as Doreen, part of a group who have travelled to Bath for the weekend to celebrate their friend Angela's (Joy McAvoy) birthday. Whilst out on the town celebrating, Doreen, Angela, Hilary (Shelley Conn), Melissa (Maya Coates) and Cath (Kat Ronney) get chatting to some players from the Bath Eagles Rugby Club, including its strapping new signing Dominique Aubert (Tomos Gwynfryn). They are invited to a party thrown by rugby club chairman Jimmy (John Thomson) at his home and happily attend with other members of the rugby team and Dominique Aubert's agent Deborah (Natalie Gumede).

But the following morning, as most of the party are nursing their hangovers, the body of one guest is discovered near a railway tunnel and McDonald & Dodds are called in to investigate.

Robert Murphy, creator and executive producer, has written the first two films with Kam Odedra (Gangs of London) writing the third. Directors are Alex Pillai (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina), Rebecca Rycroft (Malory Towers) and Ian Aryeh (In The Long Run) McDonald & Dodds will once again be filmed in the West Country.

The new series has been commissioned by ITV's Drama Commissioner Huw Kennair Jones and Head of Drama, Polly Hill.  Huw will oversee production of the drama from the channel's perspective.

Damien Timmer (Endeavour, Poldark) and Preethi Mavahalli (Noughts + Crosses, The War of the Worlds) are the executive producers for Mammoth Screen, an ITV Studios company, alongside writer Robert Murphy (Vera, Shetland, DCI Banks). The producer of the new series is Sarah Lewis (Noughts + Crosses, Victoria).

The first series is available to view via streaming platform Britbox.  Series one launched with a consolidated rating of 6.4m and a 26% share of the available audience and boasted an impressive guest cast list alongside Tala Gouveia and Jason Watkins which included Robert Lindsay, Rosalie Craig, Ellie Kendrick, Susannah Fielding, Joanna Scanlan, Michele Dotrice, Freddie Fox and Hugh Dennis.

I'm A Celebrity...A Jungle Story

Sun 08 Nov 2020
8.10pm - 10.10pm
ITV

Ant & Dec take a trip down memory lane to relive some of their favourite moments from 19 series of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!, while a host of former campmates talk exclusively about their time in the jungle. And the tables are finally turned on Ant & Dec as they take on not one but three terrifying Bushtucker Trials.







Channel 4 & Curious Films to explore the life of Caroline Flack

Family and friends will pay tribute to the TV Presenter Caroline Flack in an emotional, intimate and candid documentary celebrating Caroline's life and legacy.

The 1x60' documentary will hear from those closest to Caroline, delving beyond the headlines to reveal the woman behind the public persona, as well as exploring the pressures that fame, mental health, press and social media had on Caroline throughout her life.

Commissioned by Becky Cadman and Lee McMurray for Channel 4 Factual Entertainment, the film is being produced by Curious Films, with BAFTA winner Charlie Russell directing and Dov Freedman as executive producer.

Lee McMurray said: "After working closely with Caroline throughout 2019, we agreed to make a film with her that would tell her story and reveal what it's like to live in the glare of such intense scrutiny.  Sadly, that film will never be made.  We hope this project will be a testament to Caroline's character, work and legacy, and we're deeply grateful to her family and friends for their involvement."

Becky Cadman added: "This film is about and for Caroline. A sister, daughter, friend and one of the most successful TV presenters in the country. She openly and honestly shared her struggles with fame and how it impacted her mental health. A rollercoaster life told through the memories of the people who knew her best, Caroline's family and friends, we hope this will be a fitting tribute to her."

Dov Freedman said: "Caroline was a hugely talented star and we hope this film will honour the commitment we made to her, by telling her story frankly and honestly."