Stepping Up: Channel 4 Unveils First Look at New Comedy Starring Josh Pugh

Images: Ch4

By Jon Donnis

Channel 4 has unveiled a first look at Stepping Up, the new comedy from Josh Pugh and Roughcut Television, with a series of new images introducing the show's main characters.

Created and written by Pugh, who also stars, the comedy follows Josh, a stepdad who is determined to become the best possible role model for his stepchildren and a supportive partner to his girlfriend, Becky.

The problem is that Josh is trying far harder than anyone around him thinks is necessary.

Pugh's Josh finds himself caught between Becky, her children and her ex-husband Sean, while also trying to navigate the expectations that come with being a stepdad. His attempts to prove himself as an all-round "Good Bloke" instead leave him caught up in awkward power struggles and situations that might have been easier if he simply stopped trying so hard.

The new images feature Pugh alongside Denise Welch as Josh's mum Sue, Sophia Di Martino as Becky, Tom Hanson as Becky’s ex-husband Sean and Lucia Keskin as Josh's friend Kelcie.

The cast also includes Colin Hoult and Liam Jeavons in guest roles.

Filmed in the West Midlands, Stepping Up takes a comedic look at the complications of becoming a stepdad and the difficult balance between wanting to help and knowing when to stay out of the way.

Pugh previously worked on Sneakerhead and How Are You? It's Alan (Partridge), while Roughcut Television is behind comedies including Big Boys and Things You Should Have Done.

Channel 4 has yet to announce a transmission date for Stepping Up.