Exclusive: Star traitors and faithfuls are set to face off on in the UK in a celebrity version of smash hit format The Traitors, which Deadline understands is set to launch on the BBC next year.
Several sources have told us that an agreement between Studio Lambert, which makes the UK and U.S. versions of The Traitors, and the BBC, which broadcasts it, is close. The hope is that the first celeb version will film next year and go out later in 2025, by which time three seasons of the “civilian” version will have aired. Host Claudia Winkleman is expected to present the celeb version.
The U.S. and UK versions of The Traitors — in which contestants live together and take part in challenges while seeking to uncloak the traitors among their number — are filmed back to back in a castle in Scotland. The producers could capitalize upon that model...
Several sources have told us that an agreement between Studio Lambert, which makes the UK and U.S. versions of The Traitors, and the BBC, which broadcasts it, is close. The hope is that the first celeb version will film next year and go out later in 2025, by which time three seasons of the “civilian” version will have aired. Host Claudia Winkleman is expected to present the celeb version.
The U.S. and UK versions of The Traitors — in which contestants live together and take part in challenges while seeking to uncloak the traitors among their number — are filmed back to back in a castle in Scotland. The producers could capitalize upon that model...
- 4/18/2024
- by Stewart Clarke and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The long awaited follow up to Rob Reiner’s comedy classic This Is Spinal Tap has begun filming, lots of musical cameos have also been confirmed.
There is only one comedy film which turns the laughs up to eleven, and that is if course Rob Reiner’s 1984 classic This Is Spinal Tap. Though technically The Comic Strip team of Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, Nigel Planer, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French and Peter Richardson got there first a year earlier with the excellent Bad News, which is well worth seeking out of you’ve never had the pleasure.
This Is Spinal Tap is often cited as one of the funniest films ever made, with musicians frequently applauding the accuracy of several scenes, from petty band squabbles to getting lost backstage and over the top props onstage.
The cast – Reiner, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean and Christopher Guest – will reprise their roles as documentarian Martin ‘Marty’ Dibergi,...
There is only one comedy film which turns the laughs up to eleven, and that is if course Rob Reiner’s 1984 classic This Is Spinal Tap. Though technically The Comic Strip team of Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, Nigel Planer, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French and Peter Richardson got there first a year earlier with the excellent Bad News, which is well worth seeking out of you’ve never had the pleasure.
This Is Spinal Tap is often cited as one of the funniest films ever made, with musicians frequently applauding the accuracy of several scenes, from petty band squabbles to getting lost backstage and over the top props onstage.
The cast – Reiner, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean and Christopher Guest – will reprise their roles as documentarian Martin ‘Marty’ Dibergi,...
- 3/12/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
The BBC has revealed more details about this year’s Comic Relief telethon, which will be broadcast on 15th March on BBC One.
Comic Relief launched in 1985 with a telethon that has since become embedded in British culture. Known as Red Nose Day, on account of the red noses sold as part of the appeal, over the years this has led to many classic comic moments, from The Young Ones singing Livin’ Doll with Cliff Richard, to Johnny Depp and Sting appearing in The Vicar Of Dibley, to Billy Connolly running naked through Trafalgar Square and Mr Bean infiltrating both Blind Date, and a Torvill and Dean dance routine.
Lenny Henry, who co-founded Comic Relief with Richard Curtis, recently revealed that he will be stepping down as host after this year’s telethon. Henry said of his decision that “when we first started Comic Relief back in 1985, I never dreamed...
Comic Relief launched in 1985 with a telethon that has since become embedded in British culture. Known as Red Nose Day, on account of the red noses sold as part of the appeal, over the years this has led to many classic comic moments, from The Young Ones singing Livin’ Doll with Cliff Richard, to Johnny Depp and Sting appearing in The Vicar Of Dibley, to Billy Connolly running naked through Trafalgar Square and Mr Bean infiltrating both Blind Date, and a Torvill and Dean dance routine.
Lenny Henry, who co-founded Comic Relief with Richard Curtis, recently revealed that he will be stepping down as host after this year’s telethon. Henry said of his decision that “when we first started Comic Relief back in 1985, I never dreamed...
- 2/29/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
Comedian, Nish Kumar, and journalist, Coco Khan, presenters of the Pod Save the UK podcast, have been confirmed as hosts for this year’s Audio Production Awards ceremony to be held on Wednesday 22nd November.
The Awards, sponsored by Audible, will be held at a gala evening at the BFI on London’s South Bank, and tickets for the Awards are on sale here: tinyurl.com/APAs-tickets
The APAs, organised by AudioUK, celebrate outstanding achievement in audio production across a huge range of audio content including; podcasts, audiobooks, sound design, radio, presenting and more.
The prestigious Producer of the Year category, sponsored by Audible, was as hotly contested as ever, nominees include: Anishka Sharma, Bea Duncan, Jack Suddaby, Katie Callin, Ruth Abrahams and Steven Rajam.
Presenter and new voice category nominees include newcomer Kwesia aka City Girl in Nature for Peanut & Crumb’s Get Birding Podcast, BBC Radio 1’s...
The Awards, sponsored by Audible, will be held at a gala evening at the BFI on London’s South Bank, and tickets for the Awards are on sale here: tinyurl.com/APAs-tickets
The APAs, organised by AudioUK, celebrate outstanding achievement in audio production across a huge range of audio content including; podcasts, audiobooks, sound design, radio, presenting and more.
The prestigious Producer of the Year category, sponsored by Audible, was as hotly contested as ever, nominees include: Anishka Sharma, Bea Duncan, Jack Suddaby, Katie Callin, Ruth Abrahams and Steven Rajam.
Presenter and new voice category nominees include newcomer Kwesia aka City Girl in Nature for Peanut & Crumb’s Get Birding Podcast, BBC Radio 1’s...
- 10/23/2023
- Podnews.net
British comedy icon Jennifer Saunders has vowed that by the end of 2023, she will have completed a new Absolutely Fabulous script based on the beloved BBC sitcom.
Saunders, 65, promised her long-time writing partner and friend Dawn French that she would have an early draft of the project done in the next two months. French previously revealed that she regularly challenges Saunders to work when she can see her friend needs encouragement.
Dawn established a prior deal with Saunders that if Saunders was unable to complete the Absolutely Fabulous script, she would have to pay French £10,000.
When French asked Saunders what she wanted to be “forced to do” in a recent interview, Saunders responded, “I need to write a film or a series based on AbFab, because everyone wants another AbFab movie. I can’t do that, I just don’t have a thing. I want to do something related.”
French...
Saunders, 65, promised her long-time writing partner and friend Dawn French that she would have an early draft of the project done in the next two months. French previously revealed that she regularly challenges Saunders to work when she can see her friend needs encouragement.
Dawn established a prior deal with Saunders that if Saunders was unable to complete the Absolutely Fabulous script, she would have to pay French £10,000.
When French asked Saunders what she wanted to be “forced to do” in a recent interview, Saunders responded, “I need to write a film or a series based on AbFab, because everyone wants another AbFab movie. I can’t do that, I just don’t have a thing. I want to do something related.”
French...
- 10/14/2023
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
On Friday, October 13, 2023, at 10:40 Pm, BBC One will air Season 31, Episode 3 of “The Graham Norton Show.” In this episode, viewers can look forward to an exciting lineup of guests and entertainment.
The episode features the following:
1. Laura Linney: Laura Linney, a triple-Oscar-nominated star known for her role in “Ozark,” will join Graham Norton. She’ll discuss her new film, “The Miracle Club,” providing insights into her latest work.
2. Dawn French: Comedy star Dawn French will be on the show, sharing about her book “The Tw*t Files,” where she reflects on the mistakes she’s made in her life and career.
3. London Hughes: Stand-up comedian and actor London Hughes will be present to talk about her memoir, “Living My Best Life, Hun.” Viewers can expect to hear her stories and experiences.
4. Musical Performance: Sugababes will provide musical entertainment with a performance of their new single, “When the Rain Comes.
The episode features the following:
1. Laura Linney: Laura Linney, a triple-Oscar-nominated star known for her role in “Ozark,” will join Graham Norton. She’ll discuss her new film, “The Miracle Club,” providing insights into her latest work.
2. Dawn French: Comedy star Dawn French will be on the show, sharing about her book “The Tw*t Files,” where she reflects on the mistakes she’s made in her life and career.
3. London Hughes: Stand-up comedian and actor London Hughes will be present to talk about her memoir, “Living My Best Life, Hun.” Viewers can expect to hear her stories and experiences.
4. Musical Performance: Sugababes will provide musical entertainment with a performance of their new single, “When the Rain Comes.
- 10/7/2023
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
Marlene Dietrich in Witness For The Prosecution, Albert Finney in Murder On The Orient Express, Maggie Smith in Evil Under The Sun, Kenneth Branagh in Murder On The Orient ExpressGraphic: United Arists/Emi Films/20th Century Fox
It makes sense that filmmakers have been turning to Agatha Christie for source...
It makes sense that filmmakers have been turning to Agatha Christie for source...
- 9/11/2023
- by Cindy White
- avclub.com
Medusa Deluxe is a genre-bending movie written and directed by Thomas Hardiman. The A24 film shows us a murder mystery set in a competitive hairdressing contest. Medusa Deluxe is a very visual film with some brilliant performances by Clare Perkins, Anita-Joy Uwajeh, Kayla Meikle, Kae Alexander, and Harriet Webb. So, if you loved Medusa Deluxe here are some similar movies you should check out next.
Clue (Prime Video & MGM+) Credit – Paramount Pictures
Synopsis: Here is the murderously funny movie based on the world-famous Clue board game. Was it Colonel Mustard in the study with a gun? Miss Scarlet in the billiard room with the rope? Or was it Wadsworth the butler? Meet all the notorious suspects and discover all their foul play things. You’ll love their dastardly doings as the bodies and the laughs pile up before your eyes.
The Cat’s Meow (Prime Video) Credit – Lions Gate Films
Synopsis:...
Clue (Prime Video & MGM+) Credit – Paramount Pictures
Synopsis: Here is the murderously funny movie based on the world-famous Clue board game. Was it Colonel Mustard in the study with a gun? Miss Scarlet in the billiard room with the rope? Or was it Wadsworth the butler? Meet all the notorious suspects and discover all their foul play things. You’ll love their dastardly doings as the bodies and the laughs pile up before your eyes.
The Cat’s Meow (Prime Video) Credit – Lions Gate Films
Synopsis:...
- 8/23/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Sony Picture Classics and Trafalgar Releasing announced that “Carlos: The Santana Journey Global Premiere” will be playing in select theaters worldwide on Sept. 23, 24 and 27.
These special premiere screenings will include showings of the feature length documentary “Carlos,” about the life of the legendary guitarist Carlos Santana, and also feature exclusive introductory content featuring Santana and director Ruby Valdez. “Carlos” debuted earlier this year at the Tribeca Film Festival and will have a general theatrical release on Sept. 29. The film was financed by Sony Music Entertainment and Imagine Documentaries.
“Carlos” includes interviews with Santana and his family, archival footage, concert footage, Santana’s home videos, and behind-the-scenes footage. Interviews with industry icons like Clive Davis and Rob Thomas will also be featured.
Santana has been in the industry for over 50 years and has won 10 Grammy awards for his music that combines jazz, blues, mariachi and rock and roll.
Fathom Events Adds...
These special premiere screenings will include showings of the feature length documentary “Carlos,” about the life of the legendary guitarist Carlos Santana, and also feature exclusive introductory content featuring Santana and director Ruby Valdez. “Carlos” debuted earlier this year at the Tribeca Film Festival and will have a general theatrical release on Sept. 29. The film was financed by Sony Music Entertainment and Imagine Documentaries.
“Carlos” includes interviews with Santana and his family, archival footage, concert footage, Santana’s home videos, and behind-the-scenes footage. Interviews with industry icons like Clive Davis and Rob Thomas will also be featured.
Santana has been in the industry for over 50 years and has won 10 Grammy awards for his music that combines jazz, blues, mariachi and rock and roll.
Fathom Events Adds...
- 8/17/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay and Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
“Coraline,” 2009’s Oscar-nominated animated feature from Laika Studios, grossed a combined $4.91 million in a limited theatrical rerelease via Fathom Events.
The success of the screenings, which were held Monday and Tuesday, has led to two additional screenings of the Henry Selick-directed film being added on Aug. 28 and Aug. 29.
The showings, hosted by Fathom in partnership with Laika and Park Circus, placed the film third in gross box office behind “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” It ranked as the highest grosser in per screen average on both days, making $3,000 per screen.
“As of now, Coraline is Fathom’s biggest classic movie of all time and the second highest grossing title for 2023,” Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events, said in a statement. “This film carries such a large fan following year after year, and they certainly came out in force this year to see their favorite film.”
The stop-motion film based on the...
The success of the screenings, which were held Monday and Tuesday, has led to two additional screenings of the Henry Selick-directed film being added on Aug. 28 and Aug. 29.
The showings, hosted by Fathom in partnership with Laika and Park Circus, placed the film third in gross box office behind “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” It ranked as the highest grosser in per screen average on both days, making $3,000 per screen.
“As of now, Coraline is Fathom’s biggest classic movie of all time and the second highest grossing title for 2023,” Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events, said in a statement. “This film carries such a large fan following year after year, and they certainly came out in force this year to see their favorite film.”
The stop-motion film based on the...
- 8/16/2023
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
Henry Selick’s 2009 stop motion film Coraline returned to theaters nationwide on Monday, August 14 and Tuesday, August 15, courtesy of Fathom Events, Laika, and Park Circus, and the screenings were such a success that more showings are coming later this month.
Fathom Events has announced in a press release today, “The acclaimed 2009 stop-motion epic was a huge box office hit for Fathom Events, Laika, and Park Circus this past Monday and Tuesday, grossing a combined $4.91 million in U.S. gross box office.
“The film was third in gross box office behind Barbie and Oppenheimer on both Monday and Tuesday but was First in per screen average on both of those days.”
Due to demand, additional showings will take place on August 28 & August 29.
“As of now, Coraline is Fathom’s biggest classic movie of all time and the second highest grossing title for 2023,” said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events. “This film...
Fathom Events has announced in a press release today, “The acclaimed 2009 stop-motion epic was a huge box office hit for Fathom Events, Laika, and Park Circus this past Monday and Tuesday, grossing a combined $4.91 million in U.S. gross box office.
“The film was third in gross box office behind Barbie and Oppenheimer on both Monday and Tuesday but was First in per screen average on both of those days.”
Due to demand, additional showings will take place on August 28 & August 29.
“As of now, Coraline is Fathom’s biggest classic movie of all time and the second highest grossing title for 2023,” said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events. “This film...
- 8/16/2023
- by John Squires
- bloody-disgusting.com
Get to shout out "Rhlstp!!" like a proper cool kid as the multi-award-winning and perennially popular live podcast interview series in which comedian Richard Herring chats with some of the biggest names in comedy and entertainment tours this autumn. Usually recorded in London’s glittering West End, Rhlstp is going on the road. The UK & Ire 2023 / 2024 tour will start in September and includes dates in Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, Salford, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Brighton, Bristol, Cardiff and Dublin, along with multiple dates at the show’s spiritual home in London’s Leicester Square Theatre.
Tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday 30th June with an exclusive fan pre-sale on Thursday 29th June for Rhlstp badgers and plussers. To become a badger/plusser or to view all dates visit, visit richardherring.com
Richard Herring enjoys continual success as both a writer and performer and is widely known an innovator in the world of podcasts,...
Tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday 30th June with an exclusive fan pre-sale on Thursday 29th June for Rhlstp badgers and plussers. To become a badger/plusser or to view all dates visit, visit richardherring.com
Richard Herring enjoys continual success as both a writer and performer and is widely known an innovator in the world of podcasts,...
- 6/29/2023
- Podnews.net
Henry Selick’s 2009 film Coraline is returning to theaters for two-days-only on the road to Halloween, we’ve learned today, courtesy of Fathom Events, Laika, and Park Circus.
The acclaimed 2009 stop-motion film returns to theaters nationwide on Monday, August 14 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm local time, and Tuesday, August 15 at 7:00 pm local time.
In addition to the film, audiences will be treated to new and never-before-seen footage from the Laika Archives. Join key members of Laika’s creative filmmaking team for an up-close and personal return to the worlds of Coraline, explored through unique behind-the-scenes stories, key artifacts, puppets, and costumes from the stop-motion animated film.
Tickets for Coraline are on sale Now and can be purchased at www.fathomevents.com or participating theater box offices. For a complete list of theater locations, visit the Fathom Events website (participating theaters are subject to change).
Coraline boasts stunning stop-motion animation,...
The acclaimed 2009 stop-motion film returns to theaters nationwide on Monday, August 14 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm local time, and Tuesday, August 15 at 7:00 pm local time.
In addition to the film, audiences will be treated to new and never-before-seen footage from the Laika Archives. Join key members of Laika’s creative filmmaking team for an up-close and personal return to the worlds of Coraline, explored through unique behind-the-scenes stories, key artifacts, puppets, and costumes from the stop-motion animated film.
Tickets for Coraline are on sale Now and can be purchased at www.fathomevents.com or participating theater box offices. For a complete list of theater locations, visit the Fathom Events website (participating theaters are subject to change).
Coraline boasts stunning stop-motion animation,...
- 6/28/2023
- by John Squires
- bloody-disgusting.com
Ricky Gervais and Sharon Horgan’s agent has said creatives should “be careful what they wish for” when considering whether to launch production companies.
United Agents vet Duncan Hayes told a BBC Comedy Festival audience that his constant challenge is “steering” creatives towards writing and directing over getting too involved with their businesses, which can be incredibly time costly.
Gervais runs Derek Productions and Horgan is the co-founder of Merman TV, and both have devoted much of their time to building up their indies over the past few years.
“Sometimes Sharon has a lot of plates to spin,” said Hayes. “She is running a successful indie and has lots of scripts to write. It can feel a bit ‘be careful what you wish for’ when you have the weight of your own production company.”
The Bad Sisters creator recently said she is pausing work on U.S. projects due to...
United Agents vet Duncan Hayes told a BBC Comedy Festival audience that his constant challenge is “steering” creatives towards writing and directing over getting too involved with their businesses, which can be incredibly time costly.
Gervais runs Derek Productions and Horgan is the co-founder of Merman TV, and both have devoted much of their time to building up their indies over the past few years.
“Sometimes Sharon has a lot of plates to spin,” said Hayes. “She is running a successful indie and has lots of scripts to write. It can feel a bit ‘be careful what you wish for’ when you have the weight of your own production company.”
The Bad Sisters creator recently said she is pausing work on U.S. projects due to...
- 5/25/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: British comedy legend Jennifer Saunders will make her pantomime debut as Captain Hook in Peter Pan this winter holiday season at the world famous London Palladium.
The top-of-the-bill casting coup was the brainchild of Michael Harrison, of Michael Harrison Entertainment and Crossroads Pantomimes. He’s the UK’s pantomime supremo with 24 panto productions set to open across the country in December.
“I thought: ‘Hello! Captain Hook is often played by a man and I thought why not do a gender change? It’s what pantomime is all about, isn’t it?” Harrison told us.
The comic performance artist and writer Rob Madge) will play Tinker Bell.
Peter Pan will run at the Palladium from December 9-January 14.
Last year, Harrison booked Saunders’ longtime comedy partner Dawn French (The Vicar of Dibley, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,...
The top-of-the-bill casting coup was the brainchild of Michael Harrison, of Michael Harrison Entertainment and Crossroads Pantomimes. He’s the UK’s pantomime supremo with 24 panto productions set to open across the country in December.
“I thought: ‘Hello! Captain Hook is often played by a man and I thought why not do a gender change? It’s what pantomime is all about, isn’t it?” Harrison told us.
The comic performance artist and writer Rob Madge) will play Tinker Bell.
Peter Pan will run at the Palladium from December 9-January 14.
Last year, Harrison booked Saunders’ longtime comedy partner Dawn French (The Vicar of Dibley, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,...
- 4/23/2023
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Ciarán Hinds has admitted that he had reservations about appearing in Game of Thrones due to the amount of sex scenes.
The Irish actor starred in HBO’s fantasy epic as Mance Rayder, a former member of the Knight’s Watch later known as the “King Beyond the Wall”.
In a new interview with The Independent, Hinds opened up about his time on the show, in which he appeared across three seasons from 2013 to 2015.
Hinds said that, despite the series being a huge hit, he was in two minds about taking on the role due to its excessive explicit content.
“I was rather put off by the amount of sexuality that was going on in it because it was taking away from the actual political storytelling,” he told The Independent.
“But that’s business, I guess, from their perspective.”
Game of Thrones was notorious for its countless sex scenes, with...
The Irish actor starred in HBO’s fantasy epic as Mance Rayder, a former member of the Knight’s Watch later known as the “King Beyond the Wall”.
In a new interview with The Independent, Hinds opened up about his time on the show, in which he appeared across three seasons from 2013 to 2015.
Hinds said that, despite the series being a huge hit, he was in two minds about taking on the role due to its excessive explicit content.
“I was rather put off by the amount of sexuality that was going on in it because it was taking away from the actual political storytelling,” he told The Independent.
“But that’s business, I guess, from their perspective.”
Game of Thrones was notorious for its countless sex scenes, with...
- 3/18/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Toni Collette had no time for an interviewer who asked about her recent divorce.
In December last year, the Hereditary star announced that she was separating from her husband Dave Galafassi after 20 years of marriage.
The announcement came after photographs of Galafassi were published in the Daily Mail showing him and another woman kissing, sitting together and holding hands on a beach in Sydney, Australia.
In an interview with The Times to promote her forthcoming Amazon Prime series, The Power, the Australian actor was asked whether meditation was helping her amid “a shaky old time with her relationship”.
“I’m not having a shaky time at all,” she responded. “That’s a big assumption.”
The Times’ Polly Vernon writes that she apologised and asked, “So, you’re doing ok?”
“I’m doing very well. Thank you for your concern. It’s not something I really want to talk about publicly,...
In December last year, the Hereditary star announced that she was separating from her husband Dave Galafassi after 20 years of marriage.
The announcement came after photographs of Galafassi were published in the Daily Mail showing him and another woman kissing, sitting together and holding hands on a beach in Sydney, Australia.
In an interview with The Times to promote her forthcoming Amazon Prime series, The Power, the Australian actor was asked whether meditation was helping her amid “a shaky old time with her relationship”.
“I’m not having a shaky time at all,” she responded. “That’s a big assumption.”
The Times’ Polly Vernon writes that she apologised and asked, “So, you’re doing ok?”
“I’m doing very well. Thank you for your concern. It’s not something I really want to talk about publicly,...
- 3/18/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
Dawn French was unrecognisable (sort of) as Claudia Winkleman in BBC One’s parody of The Traitors for Comic Relief.
The Vicar of Dibley star donned Winkleman’s trademark black fringe for the sketch as well as one of the star’s giant roll-neck jumpers that gradually enveloped her whole face.
“I’m actually Claudia Winkleman: half woman, half fringe,” French tells the contestants.
“It feels like it’s time to have a discussion,” she continues. “And during that discussion I will be walking round this table incessantly saying creepy stuff and looking absolutely gorgeous.”
In one scene, French parts her fringe using a curtain pulley.
The “contestants” included Alison Hammond, who was just confirmed as Matt Lucas’s replacement on The Great British Bake Off, Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Mary Berry, Stephen Merchant, Danny Dyer, Jennifer Saunders and two actual Traitors contestants from season one.
One of the...
The Vicar of Dibley star donned Winkleman’s trademark black fringe for the sketch as well as one of the star’s giant roll-neck jumpers that gradually enveloped her whole face.
“I’m actually Claudia Winkleman: half woman, half fringe,” French tells the contestants.
“It feels like it’s time to have a discussion,” she continues. “And during that discussion I will be walking round this table incessantly saying creepy stuff and looking absolutely gorgeous.”
In one scene, French parts her fringe using a curtain pulley.
The “contestants” included Alison Hammond, who was just confirmed as Matt Lucas’s replacement on The Great British Bake Off, Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Mary Berry, Stephen Merchant, Danny Dyer, Jennifer Saunders and two actual Traitors contestants from season one.
One of the...
- 3/17/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
Jennifer Saunders has offered up her thoughts on the forthcoming Fawlty Towers reboot.
In February, John Cleese announced that he and his daughter Camilla would be bringing back the Seventies sitcom, which is widely considered to be one of the greatest comedies of all time.
The news prompted shock from comedy fans, many of whom questioned why the already adored show needed to be revived.
In a new interview, Saunders was asked what her reaction had been to the news that Fawlty Towers is returning.
“Slight dread, I have to say,” she told Metro.co.uk. “I just thought, why? Why don’t you write a new thing?
“I don’t understand why you have to do that. You can’t beat the old one.”
The Absolutely Fabulous star and Cleese appeared together in the French-language film L’entente cordiale in 2006, as well as both voicing characters for Shrek 2.
In February, John Cleese announced that he and his daughter Camilla would be bringing back the Seventies sitcom, which is widely considered to be one of the greatest comedies of all time.
The news prompted shock from comedy fans, many of whom questioned why the already adored show needed to be revived.
In a new interview, Saunders was asked what her reaction had been to the news that Fawlty Towers is returning.
“Slight dread, I have to say,” she told Metro.co.uk. “I just thought, why? Why don’t you write a new thing?
“I don’t understand why you have to do that. You can’t beat the old one.”
The Absolutely Fabulous star and Cleese appeared together in the French-language film L’entente cordiale in 2006, as well as both voicing characters for Shrek 2.
- 3/17/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
The Magician’s Elephant is an animation movie directed by Wendy Rogers, and based on a novel written by Kate Dicamillo.
The Magician’s Elephant is a children’s film that aims for the highest “Disney” spirit (that of some years ago): but more tender, childish and somewhat naive, and that, woven by magic, achieves exactly the result it intends to – a film of the old school that, if we let ourselves go, will certainly be charming.
About the Film
Good animation on the technical side that – without being Pixar – takes us along the path of The Sea Beast (another Netflix animation): classicism in form, plot and overall style.
Is it one of those movies for young and old to watch? Absolutely, and with a lot of quality to it. If it sticks to what’s an”easy” approach, it’s a debate that, surely, we shouldn’t get into...
The Magician’s Elephant is a children’s film that aims for the highest “Disney” spirit (that of some years ago): but more tender, childish and somewhat naive, and that, woven by magic, achieves exactly the result it intends to – a film of the old school that, if we let ourselves go, will certainly be charming.
About the Film
Good animation on the technical side that – without being Pixar – takes us along the path of The Sea Beast (another Netflix animation): classicism in form, plot and overall style.
Is it one of those movies for young and old to watch? Absolutely, and with a lot of quality to it. If it sticks to what’s an”easy” approach, it’s a debate that, surely, we shouldn’t get into...
- 3/17/2023
- by Martin Cid
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Danny Dyer and Dame Mary Berry will appear in a parody of the BBC’s hit show The Traitors during Friday night’s (17 March) Comic Relief show.
The Traitors sketch will see Jennifer Saunders, Stephen Merchant, Rosie Jones and contestants Maddy and Wilf from series one gather for a roundtable.
In a twist, the show’s host Claudia Winkleman will be played by Dawn French before the true traitor is revealed to viewers.
Pop singers Tom Grennan and Zara Larsson will perform their new singles during the broadcast from Salford, with Aj Odudu joined by David Tennant, Joel Dommett, Paddy McGuinness and Zoe Ball serving as presenters for the BBC One broadcast.
Grennan will sing his single “You Are Not Alone”, while Swedish singer Larsson will be performing her new track “Can’t Tame Her”.
The cast of Mrs Doubtfire The Musical will also deliver their first UK performance of...
The Traitors sketch will see Jennifer Saunders, Stephen Merchant, Rosie Jones and contestants Maddy and Wilf from series one gather for a roundtable.
In a twist, the show’s host Claudia Winkleman will be played by Dawn French before the true traitor is revealed to viewers.
Pop singers Tom Grennan and Zara Larsson will perform their new singles during the broadcast from Salford, with Aj Odudu joined by David Tennant, Joel Dommett, Paddy McGuinness and Zoe Ball serving as presenters for the BBC One broadcast.
Grennan will sing his single “You Are Not Alone”, while Swedish singer Larsson will be performing her new track “Can’t Tame Her”.
The cast of Mrs Doubtfire The Musical will also deliver their first UK performance of...
- 3/17/2023
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - TV
Gary Lineker’s army of supporters has grown to include a Nobel literature laureate and comedian amid his BBC impartiality row.
The former England striker is at the centre of a public debate about impartiality at the BBC, after he compared a video unveiling the government’s asylum policy to rhetoric used in Germany in the 1930s.
On Friday (10 March), the BBC said it had “decided” the former England star would take a break from presenting the highlights programme until an “agreed and clear position” on his use of social media had been reached.
Following this, the BBC’s sports scheduling descended into chaos on Saturday (11 March) with Match of the Day going ahead without presenters or pundits after both Ian Wright and Alan Shearer pulled out in “solidarity” with Lineker.
Football Focus and Final Score were both pulled from TV schedules at the last minute that day, along with Radio 5 Live’s sport coverage.
The former England striker is at the centre of a public debate about impartiality at the BBC, after he compared a video unveiling the government’s asylum policy to rhetoric used in Germany in the 1930s.
On Friday (10 March), the BBC said it had “decided” the former England star would take a break from presenting the highlights programme until an “agreed and clear position” on his use of social media had been reached.
Following this, the BBC’s sports scheduling descended into chaos on Saturday (11 March) with Match of the Day going ahead without presenters or pundits after both Ian Wright and Alan Shearer pulled out in “solidarity” with Lineker.
Football Focus and Final Score were both pulled from TV schedules at the last minute that day, along with Radio 5 Live’s sport coverage.
- 3/12/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Donald Glover has joked about his Community co-star Chevy Chase using the N-word.
The actor and musician starred opposite Chase across five seasons of the hit show, which also starred Danny Pudi, Alison Brie, and Gillian Jacobs.
Glover, 39, appeared at the 2023 Writers Guild Awards in New York on 5 March to present Atlanta executive producer Paul Simms with an honorary award.
During his speech, he recalled how the award that Simms would be receiving was named after former Saturday Night Live writer Herb Sargeant, who had starred on Weekend Update, hosted by Chevy Chase.
“Chevy Chase once called Herb one of the funniest writers working in television,” Glover said onstage. “Chevy Chase once called me… You know what? This is about Paul.”
Later during his speech, Glover recalled meeting Simms on the set of Girls.
“I asked Lena [Dunham], ‘Hey, what made you decide to work with Paul [Simms]?’ And she goes ‘Honestly,...
The actor and musician starred opposite Chase across five seasons of the hit show, which also starred Danny Pudi, Alison Brie, and Gillian Jacobs.
Glover, 39, appeared at the 2023 Writers Guild Awards in New York on 5 March to present Atlanta executive producer Paul Simms with an honorary award.
During his speech, he recalled how the award that Simms would be receiving was named after former Saturday Night Live writer Herb Sargeant, who had starred on Weekend Update, hosted by Chevy Chase.
“Chevy Chase once called Herb one of the funniest writers working in television,” Glover said onstage. “Chevy Chase once called me… You know what? This is about Paul.”
Later during his speech, Glover recalled meeting Simms on the set of Girls.
“I asked Lena [Dunham], ‘Hey, what made you decide to work with Paul [Simms]?’ And she goes ‘Honestly,...
- 3/10/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Katherine Ryan has admitted she is eager to “roast” celebrities and revealed that an award show stage would be the perfect place for her to do it.
The Canadian comedian, 39, who starred in The Duchess, explained in a new interview that she “would die” to present any of the major awards ceremonies this season.
The mother-of-three told Metro: “I would die to present the Baftas or the Oscars or the Emmys or the Mobo awards or the Brits – anything like that.
She added: “I feel like it’s almost the last place where a comedian can roast and that’s because the status in the room is so high that someone like Ricky Gervais does an incredible job of letting those people show their vulnerability and have a laugh at themselves.”
“I love that kind of comedy. I would love to do that,” the comedian said.
She said she had...
The Canadian comedian, 39, who starred in The Duchess, explained in a new interview that she “would die” to present any of the major awards ceremonies this season.
The mother-of-three told Metro: “I would die to present the Baftas or the Oscars or the Emmys or the Mobo awards or the Brits – anything like that.
She added: “I feel like it’s almost the last place where a comedian can roast and that’s because the status in the room is so high that someone like Ricky Gervais does an incredible job of letting those people show their vulnerability and have a laugh at themselves.”
“I love that kind of comedy. I would love to do that,” the comedian said.
She said she had...
- 3/10/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
Dawn French and Claudia Winkleman have posed in a picture together, in which the pair look bizarrely similar.
The Vicar Of Dibley star, 65, struck an uncanny resemblance to the Strictly Come Dancing host, 51, in a playful Instagram selfie taken as they filmed a skit based on Winkleman’s hit BBC series The Traitors.
The sketch, which will appear as part of BBC’s Red Nose Day programming on 17 March, will see French perform alongside her longtime comedy partner Jennifer Saunders, according to the BBC.
In an Instagram post captioned: “Coming soon…#traitors #comicrelief,” French and Winkleman smile next to eachother as the comedian wears a jet black wig, cut into a bob with a fringe, resembling the presenter’s iconic hairstyle.
In the photograph, the words “Claudia Winkle” are placed over the real Winkleman, while the words “Also Claudia Winkle” are placed over French.
It comes after the BBC announced...
The Vicar Of Dibley star, 65, struck an uncanny resemblance to the Strictly Come Dancing host, 51, in a playful Instagram selfie taken as they filmed a skit based on Winkleman’s hit BBC series The Traitors.
The sketch, which will appear as part of BBC’s Red Nose Day programming on 17 March, will see French perform alongside her longtime comedy partner Jennifer Saunders, according to the BBC.
In an Instagram post captioned: “Coming soon…#traitors #comicrelief,” French and Winkleman smile next to eachother as the comedian wears a jet black wig, cut into a bob with a fringe, resembling the presenter’s iconic hairstyle.
In the photograph, the words “Claudia Winkle” are placed over the real Winkleman, while the words “Also Claudia Winkle” are placed over French.
It comes after the BBC announced...
- 3/10/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
"My sister lives! And I will find her." Netflix has revealed the official trailer for an animated movie titled The Magician's Elephant, arriving for streaming this March. It's adapted from two-time Newbery Award winning author Kate Dicamillo's classic novel, as a "joyful animated reimagining." When young Peter sets out to find his sister, his optimistic spirit guides him through an unexpected encounter with an elephant and three seemingly impossible tasks, also giving hope to his town along the way. The director: "I am forever grateful for our brilliant crew at Netflix and Animal Logic that collectively designed and crafted a beautiful, surreal yet tangible world in which our compellingly layered and diverse cast of characters flourishes." The voice cast includes Sian Clifford, Pixie Davies, Natasia Demetriou, Dawn French, Brian Tyree Henry, Noah Jupe, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, Aasif Mandvi, Mandy Patinkin, Benedict Wong, and Miranda Richardson. This looks a bit wonky,...
- 2/17/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
The first trailer for Netflix’s upcoming animated adventure The Magician’s Elephant teases an enchanting adaptation of Newbery-winning author Kate Dicamillo’s 2009 novel.
In a nearly two-minute first look at the animated feature premiering globally on March 17 and helmed by first-time director and animation and vfx veteran Wendy Rogers (Puss in Boots, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian), the streamer promises an emotionally heartfelt and visually stunning coming-of-age fable about the desire to connect and belong, embracing possibility and the power of hope and compassion.
“The first time I watched the movie, I was struck by the sheer beauty of it — it is a gorgeous film visually,” Dicamillo says of the Rogers-helmed adaptation. “But also, there is a real, genuine heart to the film. It is deeply moving. That is the true magic of it.”
Coming more than a decade after an adaptation was first announced with producer Julia Pistor...
In a nearly two-minute first look at the animated feature premiering globally on March 17 and helmed by first-time director and animation and vfx veteran Wendy Rogers (Puss in Boots, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian), the streamer promises an emotionally heartfelt and visually stunning coming-of-age fable about the desire to connect and belong, embracing possibility and the power of hope and compassion.
“The first time I watched the movie, I was struck by the sheer beauty of it — it is a gorgeous film visually,” Dicamillo says of the Rogers-helmed adaptation. “But also, there is a real, genuine heart to the film. It is deeply moving. That is the true magic of it.”
Coming more than a decade after an adaptation was first announced with producer Julia Pistor...
- 2/16/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Kit Hesketh-Harvey, the musician, composer and screenwriter, died of natural causes, a coroner has ruled.
The artist died suddenly at the age of 65 from heart disease, the family told The Independent.
He was in the bath, listening to Radio 3 and preparing for one of his Kit & McConnel comedy cabaret shows at the time of his death on 1 February.
Hesketh-Harvey, who performed for King Charles, enjoyed a prolific career that included writing the screenplay for director James Ivory’s 1987 film Maurice. The film starred a young Hugh Grant in one of his first onscreen roles.
He was the brother of Sarah Sands, journalist and former editor of the Evening Standard. Sands – who is also coping with the loss of her actor ex-husband Julian Sands who went missing last month during a mountain hike in California – spoke of her shock at her brother’s death at the time, telling The Independent: “Kit was dazzling – clever,...
The artist died suddenly at the age of 65 from heart disease, the family told The Independent.
He was in the bath, listening to Radio 3 and preparing for one of his Kit & McConnel comedy cabaret shows at the time of his death on 1 February.
Hesketh-Harvey, who performed for King Charles, enjoyed a prolific career that included writing the screenplay for director James Ivory’s 1987 film Maurice. The film starred a young Hugh Grant in one of his first onscreen roles.
He was the brother of Sarah Sands, journalist and former editor of the Evening Standard. Sands – who is also coping with the loss of her actor ex-husband Julian Sands who went missing last month during a mountain hike in California – spoke of her shock at her brother’s death at the time, telling The Independent: “Kit was dazzling – clever,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Music
Kit Hesketh-Harvey, the musician, composer and screenwriter, has died suddenly aged 65.
The multi-talented entertainer, who performed for King Charles, enjoyed a prolific career that included writing the screenplay for director James Ivory’s 1987 film Maurice, starring a young Hugh Grant in one of his first onscreen roles.
His agent told The Independent he died unexpectedly but peacefully, while listening to Radio 3 and preparing for a Kit & McConnel show.
He was the brother of Sarah Sands, journalist and former editor of the Evening Standard. His death comes as a double blow to the family during an ongoing search for Ms Sands’s former husband, British actor Julian Sands, who went missing two weeks ago while hiking in southern California.
Ms Sands spoke of the shock over her brother’s death. She told The Independent: “Kit was dazzling – clever, original, funny, kind. The last time I saw him he was busy mapping...
The multi-talented entertainer, who performed for King Charles, enjoyed a prolific career that included writing the screenplay for director James Ivory’s 1987 film Maurice, starring a young Hugh Grant in one of his first onscreen roles.
His agent told The Independent he died unexpectedly but peacefully, while listening to Radio 3 and preparing for a Kit & McConnel show.
He was the brother of Sarah Sands, journalist and former editor of the Evening Standard. His death comes as a double blow to the family during an ongoing search for Ms Sands’s former husband, British actor Julian Sands, who went missing two weeks ago while hiking in southern California.
Ms Sands spoke of the shock over her brother’s death. She told The Independent: “Kit was dazzling – clever, original, funny, kind. The last time I saw him he was busy mapping...
- 2/1/2023
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - Music
Kit Hesketh-Harvey, the musician, composer and screenwriter, has died suddenly aged 65.
The multi-talented entertainer, who performed for King Charles, enjoyed a prolific career that included writing the screenplay for director James Ivory’s 1987 film Maurice, starring a young Hugh Grant in one of his first onscreen roles.
His agent told The Independent he died unexpectedly but peacefully, while listening to Radio 3 and preparing for a Kit & McConnel show.
He was the brother of Sarah Sands, journalist and former editor of the Evening Standard. His death comes as a double blow to the family during an ongoing search for Ms Sands’s former husband, British actor Julian Sands, who went missing two weeks ago while hiking in southern California.
Ms Sands spoke of the shock over her brother’s death. She told The Independent: “Kit was dazzling – clever, original, funny, kind. The last time I saw him he was busy mapping...
The multi-talented entertainer, who performed for King Charles, enjoyed a prolific career that included writing the screenplay for director James Ivory’s 1987 film Maurice, starring a young Hugh Grant in one of his first onscreen roles.
His agent told The Independent he died unexpectedly but peacefully, while listening to Radio 3 and preparing for a Kit & McConnel show.
He was the brother of Sarah Sands, journalist and former editor of the Evening Standard. His death comes as a double blow to the family during an ongoing search for Ms Sands’s former husband, British actor Julian Sands, who went missing two weeks ago while hiking in southern California.
Ms Sands spoke of the shock over her brother’s death. She told The Independent: “Kit was dazzling – clever, original, funny, kind. The last time I saw him he was busy mapping...
- 2/1/2023
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - Film
Every time Alex Horne is asked about his dream Taskmaster contestant, he says Jack Dee. Every. Single. Time. And yet in fourteen series and two (soon to be three) New Year Specials, they still haven’t managed to book Jack Dee for the show.
The Taskmaster team have posted this teaser ahead of tonight’s final, after which we’ll discover the Series 15 cast, so there’s hope yet that Dee is one of these elusive one-man-bands:
Keep your eyes peeled for the official Taskmaster Series 15 cast reveal, after tonight’s show! Here’s a lovely little teaser to whet your appetites… pic.twitter.com/o1sskl4sPi
— Taskmaster (@taskmaster) December 1, 2022
While we wait to discover their identities, we’ve got a few names of our own to throw into the ring for potential future Taskmaster contestants/victims:
Richard Ayoade
Richard Ayoade is always at the top of Taskmaster fan’s ‘dream contestant’ lists,...
The Taskmaster team have posted this teaser ahead of tonight’s final, after which we’ll discover the Series 15 cast, so there’s hope yet that Dee is one of these elusive one-man-bands:
Keep your eyes peeled for the official Taskmaster Series 15 cast reveal, after tonight’s show! Here’s a lovely little teaser to whet your appetites… pic.twitter.com/o1sskl4sPi
— Taskmaster (@taskmaster) December 1, 2022
While we wait to discover their identities, we’ve got a few names of our own to throw into the ring for potential future Taskmaster contestants/victims:
Richard Ayoade
Richard Ayoade is always at the top of Taskmaster fan’s ‘dream contestant’ lists,...
- 12/1/2022
- by Lauravickersgreen
- Den of Geek
The holidays are a special time of year. If you're not opening presents or stuffing your face with leftovers, you're glued to the TV, soaking up some cozy seasonal viewing. As Christmas fast approaches, sites like ours are usually flooded with listicles highlighting the best ways to spend your Christmas downtime and wring out every last drop of precious festivity. After all, there are some movies that it just wouldn't be Christmas without. That said, not all of them feature snow, Santa, or even Christmas.
Odds are, you have your own unique selection when it comes to this particular corner of subjective viewing. When broadcasters know families will all be under the same roof, oftentimes, it feels like they use it as an opportunity to air solid family favorites that never fail to please. Maybe it's to help break up the near-constant repeats of "Home Alone" or maybe it's a...
Odds are, you have your own unique selection when it comes to this particular corner of subjective viewing. When broadcasters know families will all be under the same roof, oftentimes, it feels like they use it as an opportunity to air solid family favorites that never fail to please. Maybe it's to help break up the near-constant repeats of "Home Alone" or maybe it's a...
- 11/29/2022
- by Simon Bland
- Slash Film
Dawn French has joked that she wants to be embalmed and buried in a perspex coffin with the word “slut” written on it.
French appeared on the premiere episode of Kathy Burke’s new podcast, Where There’s a Will, There’s a Wake, released on Tuesday (29 November). The podcast sees Burke asking celebrity guests about their imagined deaths and funerals.
The Vicar of Dibley star, 65, opened up about how she would like her corpse to be presented when she dies.
Speaking about the circumstances behind her death, French said she would like to die “Tommy Cooper-style” on stage.
In 1984, Cooper died of a heart attack in front of millions of television viewers during his act on the Royal Variety show.
French then divulged what her dream funeral procession would look like, which includes a see-through “Barbie” hearse.
She joked: “I’m humble… I’m low-key. I’d like a see-through hearse,...
French appeared on the premiere episode of Kathy Burke’s new podcast, Where There’s a Will, There’s a Wake, released on Tuesday (29 November). The podcast sees Burke asking celebrity guests about their imagined deaths and funerals.
The Vicar of Dibley star, 65, opened up about how she would like her corpse to be presented when she dies.
Speaking about the circumstances behind her death, French said she would like to die “Tommy Cooper-style” on stage.
In 1984, Cooper died of a heart attack in front of millions of television viewers during his act on the Royal Variety show.
French then divulged what her dream funeral procession would look like, which includes a see-through “Barbie” hearse.
She joked: “I’m humble… I’m low-key. I’d like a see-through hearse,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - Film
Everyone calls Alfred Molina a character actor. And he’s very happy about that. “There was a time when ‘character actor’ meant someone who wasn’t quite good enough to be a leading man,” the celebrated actor and owner of Hollywood’s best eyebrows tells me, leaning forward, “and I think that’s bollocks.”
The reason for such emphasis on that word? A memory, perhaps, of a pep talk he was given in his final year of drama school. Back then, the Spider-Man star was still Alfredo, later advised to drop the “o” to anglicise his name. (He’s the London-born son of a Spanish father and Italian mother.) Molina starts to summon the patronising Rp of his tutor, creasing up as he does so. “He said, ‘Alfredo. I think you have to come to terms with the fact that you really won’t work until you’re well into your forties.
The reason for such emphasis on that word? A memory, perhaps, of a pep talk he was given in his final year of drama school. Back then, the Spider-Man star was still Alfredo, later advised to drop the “o” to anglicise his name. (He’s the London-born son of a Spanish father and Italian mother.) Molina starts to summon the patronising Rp of his tutor, creasing up as he does so. “He said, ‘Alfredo. I think you have to come to terms with the fact that you really won’t work until you’re well into your forties.
- 11/26/2022
- by Jessie Thompson
- The Independent - Film
Everyone calls Alfred Molina a character actor. And he’s very happy about that. “There was a time when ‘character actor’ meant someone who wasn’t quite good enough to be a leading man,” the celebrated actor and owner of Hollywood’s best eyebrows tells me, leaning forward, “and I think that’s bollocks.”
The reason for such emphasis on that word? A memory, perhaps, of a pep talk he was given in his final year of drama school. Back then, the Spider-Man star was still Alfredo, later advised to drop the “o” to anglicise his name. (He’s the London-born son of a Spanish father and Italian mother.) Molina starts to summon the patronising Rp of his tutor, creasing up as he does so. “He said, ‘Alfredo. I think you have to come to terms with the fact that you really won’t work until you’re well into your forties.
The reason for such emphasis on that word? A memory, perhaps, of a pep talk he was given in his final year of drama school. Back then, the Spider-Man star was still Alfredo, later advised to drop the “o” to anglicise his name. (He’s the London-born son of a Spanish father and Italian mother.) Molina starts to summon the patronising Rp of his tutor, creasing up as he does so. “He said, ‘Alfredo. I think you have to come to terms with the fact that you really won’t work until you’re well into your forties.
- 11/26/2022
- by Jessie Thompson
- The Independent - TV
Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley are living comedic legends, as the drinking, drug-abusing, shallow stars of the British sitcom "Absolutely Fabulous." The British Film Institute ranked "AbFab" as number 17 of the 100 Greatest British Television Programmes of all time, and the beloved series saw a reunion nearly 25 years after the show first aired with "Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie" in 2016. The series sees Saunders as PR agent Edina "Eddie" Monsoon, who spends most of her time fad-chasing and crash dieting in an attempt to stay hip, young, and relevant. At her side is longtime bestie and magazine fashion director Patsy Stone (Lumley), whose inappropriate antics make Eddie look like a church-marm.
"Absolutely Fabulous" is one of the funniest sitcoms in television history, with Eddie and Patsy's signature style helping them become two of the most easily recognizable female characters in all of comedy. The show became hugely popular in the United States...
"Absolutely Fabulous" is one of the funniest sitcoms in television history, with Eddie and Patsy's signature style helping them become two of the most easily recognizable female characters in all of comedy. The show became hugely popular in the United States...
- 11/1/2022
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
The famous Only Fools and Horses scene where Del Boy falls through the bar has been named the funniest sitcom moment of all time.
The BBC programme won the top spot in a poll revealed by TV channel Gold to celebrate 30 years of the comedy channel.
In the scene, Del Boy – played by Sir David Jason – goes to lean back on the bar that he had been resting on. However, he hadn’t noticed that the bar was a liftable slot for waiters to move through.
As he goes to lean back on it while saying “play it nice and cool son, nice and cool” the bar slot is lifted, causing him to fall straight onto the ground. Meanwhile, his friend Trigger turns around to look for him.
In a poll commissioned by Gold to determine the results, 2000 British adults and children voted for their favourite scene.
The series was...
The BBC programme won the top spot in a poll revealed by TV channel Gold to celebrate 30 years of the comedy channel.
In the scene, Del Boy – played by Sir David Jason – goes to lean back on the bar that he had been resting on. However, he hadn’t noticed that the bar was a liftable slot for waiters to move through.
As he goes to lean back on it while saying “play it nice and cool son, nice and cool” the bar slot is lifted, causing him to fall straight onto the ground. Meanwhile, his friend Trigger turns around to look for him.
In a poll commissioned by Gold to determine the results, 2000 British adults and children voted for their favourite scene.
The series was...
- 11/1/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - TV
Robbie Coltrane, who has died aged 72, arrived on television in the 1980s as one of the new breed of “alternative” comedy performers. A decade later, he was making an even greater impact as the flawed criminal psychologist in Cracker. Then, moving into a new century, he was a favourite with younger audiences as Hagrid in the Harry Potter films.
He came to the fore in The Comic Strip Presents satirical films for television alongside other new faces such as Peter Richardson, Adrian Edmondson, Jennifer Saunders and Dawn French.
From the first story, Five Go Mad in Dorset, the spoofs gave Channel 4, newly launched in 1982, the subversive edge it sought in being different from the TV establishment.
Coltrane was very much part of that establishment, but at its gritty, hard-hitting centre, when he was cast as Dr Eddie Fitzgerald – “Fitz” – in Cracker (1993-96), former Brookside writer Jimmy McGovern’s creation...
He came to the fore in The Comic Strip Presents satirical films for television alongside other new faces such as Peter Richardson, Adrian Edmondson, Jennifer Saunders and Dawn French.
From the first story, Five Go Mad in Dorset, the spoofs gave Channel 4, newly launched in 1982, the subversive edge it sought in being different from the TV establishment.
Coltrane was very much part of that establishment, but at its gritty, hard-hitting centre, when he was cast as Dr Eddie Fitzgerald – “Fitz” – in Cracker (1993-96), former Brookside writer Jimmy McGovern’s creation...
- 10/28/2022
- by Anthony Hayward
- The Independent - Film
The cottage which ‘played’ the home of Geraldine Granger in BBC’s The Vicar of Dibley has gone on sale - for £900k.
Church Cottage starred as the home of the iconic Dawn French character in the fictional Oxfordshire village of Dibley throughout the much-loved comedy series.
But prospective buyers have now been given the chance to own a piece of tv history after the property in the real-life village of Turville, Oxfordshire was put up on the market.
Estate agents Savills said the historic Grade II listed cottage offers “delightful views of the picturesque village and church”.
Property agent Charlie Chavasse said: “Set in the most beautiful picturesque village, a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of TV history.”
The property is accessed from the front, via the grounds of St Mary the Virgin Church and at the rear via School Lane, were there is a car port.
The...
Church Cottage starred as the home of the iconic Dawn French character in the fictional Oxfordshire village of Dibley throughout the much-loved comedy series.
But prospective buyers have now been given the chance to own a piece of tv history after the property in the real-life village of Turville, Oxfordshire was put up on the market.
Estate agents Savills said the historic Grade II listed cottage offers “delightful views of the picturesque village and church”.
Property agent Charlie Chavasse said: “Set in the most beautiful picturesque village, a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of TV history.”
The property is accessed from the front, via the grounds of St Mary the Virgin Church and at the rear via School Lane, were there is a car port.
The...
- 9/30/2022
- by SWNS reporter
- The Independent - TV
Exclusive: The cultural phenomenon that is Netflix’s hit drama Bridgerton will impact London Palladium pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk with the casting of Louis Gaunt — he played dashing Lord Lumley in Season 2 of the frothy Regency-era drama — who will take on the title role of the farm lad who trades in the beloved family cow for magic beans.
Lord Lumley was one of the young blades in Bridgerton who made the acquaintance of Charithra Chandran’s Edwina Sharma, while also being at the beck and call of Jonathan Bailey’s Lord Anthony Bridgerton. In one scene Lord Bridgerton spots Lord Lumley escorting Edwina to the races. He quickly gets rid of him by ordering him to fetch lemonade.
‘Bridgerton’ Reveals Season 3 Opening, Premiere Episode Title
Jack and the Beanstalk also stars Dawn French (The Vicar of Dibley), Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Gary Wilmot. Natalie McQueen and Rob Madge,...
Lord Lumley was one of the young blades in Bridgerton who made the acquaintance of Charithra Chandran’s Edwina Sharma, while also being at the beck and call of Jonathan Bailey’s Lord Anthony Bridgerton. In one scene Lord Bridgerton spots Lord Lumley escorting Edwina to the races. He quickly gets rid of him by ordering him to fetch lemonade.
‘Bridgerton’ Reveals Season 3 Opening, Premiere Episode Title
Jack and the Beanstalk also stars Dawn French (The Vicar of Dibley), Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Gary Wilmot. Natalie McQueen and Rob Madge,...
- 9/26/2022
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Lenny Henry has praised Lord of the Rings producers for the new show’s racially diverse cast.
The actor will appear in Prime Video’s fantasy series The Rings of Power as Sadoc Burrows.
In a new interview, the actor and comedian addressed the adaptation’s inclusion of non-white characters, which largely differs from Jrr Tolkien’s original book series as well as Peter Jackson’s Middle Earth films.
“That’s to do with it being the 21st century,” Henry told The Times, adding: “People want to see themselves.”
He continued: “Of course, if you go back, there’s going to be that thing that prevails because the books don’t say... although some of the characters are described as hard skinned and darker in complexion – that was then, this is now and we’re telling the story now.”
Speaking about pushing for diversity in the entertainment industry throughout his career,...
The actor will appear in Prime Video’s fantasy series The Rings of Power as Sadoc Burrows.
In a new interview, the actor and comedian addressed the adaptation’s inclusion of non-white characters, which largely differs from Jrr Tolkien’s original book series as well as Peter Jackson’s Middle Earth films.
“That’s to do with it being the 21st century,” Henry told The Times, adding: “People want to see themselves.”
He continued: “Of course, if you go back, there’s going to be that thing that prevails because the books don’t say... although some of the characters are described as hard skinned and darker in complexion – that was then, this is now and we’re telling the story now.”
Speaking about pushing for diversity in the entertainment industry throughout his career,...
- 9/1/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Lenny Henry has spoken about racism within the fantasy genre.
The British comedian is set to star in Lord of the Rings spin-off The Rings of Power, which is released later this week. You can read The Independent’s review of the series here.
While the original Lotr films featured no Black characters, both The Rings of Power and new Game of Thrones spin-off House of the Dragon have worked to feature more racially diverse casts.
In a new interview with GQ, Henry said that an effort was being made to make the genre “more inclusive”.
Recalling a conversation he had with Steve Toussaint about the actor’s casting in House of the Dragon, Henry said that “the purists were saying things” about a Black performer starring in the HBO series.
“God bless them,” Henry said. “They have no trouble believing in a dragon, but they do have trouble believing...
The British comedian is set to star in Lord of the Rings spin-off The Rings of Power, which is released later this week. You can read The Independent’s review of the series here.
While the original Lotr films featured no Black characters, both The Rings of Power and new Game of Thrones spin-off House of the Dragon have worked to feature more racially diverse casts.
In a new interview with GQ, Henry said that an effort was being made to make the genre “more inclusive”.
Recalling a conversation he had with Steve Toussaint about the actor’s casting in House of the Dragon, Henry said that “the purists were saying things” about a Black performer starring in the HBO series.
“God bless them,” Henry said. “They have no trouble believing in a dragon, but they do have trouble believing...
- 8/31/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Lenny Henry has praised Lord of the Rings producers for the new show’s racially diverse cast.
The actor will appear in Prime Video’s fantasy series The Rings of Power as Sadoc Burrows.
In a new interview, the actor and comedian addressed the adaptation’s inclusion of non-white characters, which largely differs from Jrr Tolkien’s original book series as well as Peter Jackson’s Middle Earth films.
“That’s to do with it being the 21st century,” Henry told The Times, adding: “People want to see themselves.”
He continued: “Of course, if you go back, there’s going to be that thing that prevails because the books don’t say... although some of the characters are described as hard skinned and darker in complexion – that was then, this is now and we’re telling the story now.”
Speaking about pushing for diversity in the entertainment industry throughout his career,...
The actor will appear in Prime Video’s fantasy series The Rings of Power as Sadoc Burrows.
In a new interview, the actor and comedian addressed the adaptation’s inclusion of non-white characters, which largely differs from Jrr Tolkien’s original book series as well as Peter Jackson’s Middle Earth films.
“That’s to do with it being the 21st century,” Henry told The Times, adding: “People want to see themselves.”
He continued: “Of course, if you go back, there’s going to be that thing that prevails because the books don’t say... although some of the characters are described as hard skinned and darker in complexion – that was then, this is now and we’re telling the story now.”
Speaking about pushing for diversity in the entertainment industry throughout his career,...
- 8/30/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Comedian, actor, artist, writer, musician and presenter, Billy Connolly (“Mrs. Brown”), will be honored with the BAFTA Fellowship at this year’s Virgin Media BAFTA TV Awards.
The fellowship is the highest accolade bestowed by BAFTA in recognition of an individual’s contribution to film, television or games across their career. Previous TV honorees include Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders, Jon Snow, Bruce Forsyth, Joanna Lumley, Melvyn Bragg, Michael Palin, Trevor MacDonald, David Attenborough, Julie Walters, Ray Galton, Alan Simpson, Katie Adie and Joan Bakewell.
In 1995, Connolly won the BAFTA Scotland entertainment category for “Billy Connolly’s World Tour of Scotland.” He has since received five BAFTA nominations, and has been presented with a BAFTA special award in 2002 and the BAFTA Scotland outstanding contribution to television and film in 2012.
Connolly left school at 15 and began a career as a musician and also started a folk duo with Gerry Rafferty called The Humblebums.
The fellowship is the highest accolade bestowed by BAFTA in recognition of an individual’s contribution to film, television or games across their career. Previous TV honorees include Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders, Jon Snow, Bruce Forsyth, Joanna Lumley, Melvyn Bragg, Michael Palin, Trevor MacDonald, David Attenborough, Julie Walters, Ray Galton, Alan Simpson, Katie Adie and Joan Bakewell.
In 1995, Connolly won the BAFTA Scotland entertainment category for “Billy Connolly’s World Tour of Scotland.” He has since received five BAFTA nominations, and has been presented with a BAFTA special award in 2002 and the BAFTA Scotland outstanding contribution to television and film in 2012.
Connolly left school at 15 and began a career as a musician and also started a folk duo with Gerry Rafferty called The Humblebums.
- 5/3/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Alexandra Burke, singer, song-writer and British X-Factor winner, has signed on to play the villainess in this year’s London Palladium pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.
Oh yes she has!
Burke joins already announced stars Dawn French, Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Gary Wilmot. The panto runs at the Palladium from December 10 through January 15.
The Brits love their pantos at Christmas. Michael Harrison, who heads Crossroads Pantomimes, has turned the Palladium panto into a must-see event with spectacular sets and costumes, plenty of song and dance coupled with over-the-top jokes.
Last season Burke played Scheherazade — the Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin at the Opera House, Manchester.
”This year I’ve got Dawn as Jack’s mum and Alexandra as Mrs. Blunderbore, the giant’s wife. She’s the villainess and she’ll be terrorizing Dawn,” Harrison told Deadline.
Harrison revealed that Burke sees Mrs. Blunderbore as having “a Cruella flavour about her.
Oh yes she has!
Burke joins already announced stars Dawn French, Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Gary Wilmot. The panto runs at the Palladium from December 10 through January 15.
The Brits love their pantos at Christmas. Michael Harrison, who heads Crossroads Pantomimes, has turned the Palladium panto into a must-see event with spectacular sets and costumes, plenty of song and dance coupled with over-the-top jokes.
Last season Burke played Scheherazade — the Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin at the Opera House, Manchester.
”This year I’ve got Dawn as Jack’s mum and Alexandra as Mrs. Blunderbore, the giant’s wife. She’s the villainess and she’ll be terrorizing Dawn,” Harrison told Deadline.
Harrison revealed that Burke sees Mrs. Blunderbore as having “a Cruella flavour about her.
- 4/27/2022
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
This review of “Death on the Nile” was first published on Feb. 7, 2022.
When the 2017 redo of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” made a killing, that may have been a surprise, but no one should have been shocked that director-star Kenneth Branagh, his epic ‘stache like a furry face belt, and screenwriter Michael Green would head back to the whodunit queen’s Hercule Poirot library for another starry, swanky production.
You could even call their choice of follow-up a copycat crime, since an adaptation of “Death on the Nile” was also what followed the 1974 film of “Express.”
The 1978 “Death,” however, necessitated a change in Poirots (from I-won’t-play-him-again Albert Finney to first-of-six-times Peter Ustinov) even as it stuck to the story points and suspect roster of Christie’s 1937 tale of love, betrayal and homicide on a paddle steamer through Egypt.
And yet for all the ways Branagh’s lavish new “Death” deliberately,...
When the 2017 redo of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” made a killing, that may have been a surprise, but no one should have been shocked that director-star Kenneth Branagh, his epic ‘stache like a furry face belt, and screenwriter Michael Green would head back to the whodunit queen’s Hercule Poirot library for another starry, swanky production.
You could even call their choice of follow-up a copycat crime, since an adaptation of “Death on the Nile” was also what followed the 1974 film of “Express.”
The 1978 “Death,” however, necessitated a change in Poirots (from I-won’t-play-him-again Albert Finney to first-of-six-times Peter Ustinov) even as it stuck to the story points and suspect roster of Christie’s 1937 tale of love, betrayal and homicide on a paddle steamer through Egypt.
And yet for all the ways Branagh’s lavish new “Death” deliberately,...
- 3/29/2022
- by Robert Abele
- The Wrap
Those who were waiting for “Death on the Nile” to start streaming are in luck – the murder mystery thriller will be available on HBO Max and Hulu later in March in the U.S.
The follow-up to “Murder on the Orient Express” was released exclusively in theaters on February 11, but will be making its streaming debut just over a month later on March 29.
Additional 20th Century Studios films released exclusively in theaters last year have been making streaming debuts in early 2022: “The Last Duel” landed on HBO Max in January, “Free Guy” and “Th King’s Men” came to HBO Max and Disney+ in February and “West Side Story” is now streaming on HBO Max and Disney+.
The simultaneous release on HBO Max and Hulu for “Death on the Nile” is a product of an existing deal between Fox and Warner Bros. that extends through 2022, and similarly saw Guillermo del Toro...
The follow-up to “Murder on the Orient Express” was released exclusively in theaters on February 11, but will be making its streaming debut just over a month later on March 29.
Additional 20th Century Studios films released exclusively in theaters last year have been making streaming debuts in early 2022: “The Last Duel” landed on HBO Max in January, “Free Guy” and “Th King’s Men” came to HBO Max and Disney+ in February and “West Side Story” is now streaming on HBO Max and Disney+.
The simultaneous release on HBO Max and Hulu for “Death on the Nile” is a product of an existing deal between Fox and Warner Bros. that extends through 2022, and similarly saw Guillermo del Toro...
- 3/10/2022
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
Red Nose Day, the BBC’s annual televized fund-raising event, is set to return on March 18.
Featuring comedy sketches and specials, live performances and a host of celebrity names, the live show will be broadcast from the broadcaster’s Manchester headquarters on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the U.K.
Sir Lenny Henry will return to host the event alongside former Doctor Who David Tennant, “Walk the Line” judge Alesha Dixon, former “Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two” host Zoe Ball and comedian Paddy McGuinness.
The show will include cameos from comedians Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Jack Whitehall, David Walliams and Matt Lucas as well as public figures such as Olympian Tom Daley and actor Rose Ayling Ellis.
Among the sketches and performances audiences can expect to see on the night are “Comic Opera,” which will see six celebrities given 24 hours to learn opera – and perform it in front...
Featuring comedy sketches and specials, live performances and a host of celebrity names, the live show will be broadcast from the broadcaster’s Manchester headquarters on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the U.K.
Sir Lenny Henry will return to host the event alongside former Doctor Who David Tennant, “Walk the Line” judge Alesha Dixon, former “Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two” host Zoe Ball and comedian Paddy McGuinness.
The show will include cameos from comedians Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Jack Whitehall, David Walliams and Matt Lucas as well as public figures such as Olympian Tom Daley and actor Rose Ayling Ellis.
Among the sketches and performances audiences can expect to see on the night are “Comic Opera,” which will see six celebrities given 24 hours to learn opera – and perform it in front...
- 3/8/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
The new mystery film Death on the Nile, based on the 1937 novel of the same name by Agatha Christie, premiered in theaters this month with a star-studded cast. The film is directed by Kenneth Branagh, who also stars in the film, from a screenplay by Michael Green and stars Annette Bening, Russell Brand, Ali Fazal, Dawn French, Gal Gadot, Armie Hammer, Rose Leslie, Emma Mackey, Sophie Okonedo, Jennifer Saunders, and Letitia Wright. The film was produced by Branagh, Ridley Scott, Judy Hofflund, and Kevin J. Walsh and is a sequel to Murder on the Orient Express (2017). Death on
Five Movies To Watch When You’re Done With “Death On The Nile”...
Five Movies To Watch When You’re Done With “Death On The Nile”...
- 3/2/2022
- by A.E. Oats
- TVovermind.com
Beryl Vertue, the renowned British television producer and founder of Hartswood Films, died on Saturday, her family has confirmed. She was 90.
No cause of death has been given but her daughters, Sue and Debbie Vertue, who worked with her at Hartswood Films, confirmed she died “peacefully” and surrounded by family.
“It’s with the heaviest of hearts that we have to share the sad news that mum/Beryl passed away peacefully last night,” her daughters and Hartswood Films co-producers Sue and Debbie said in a statement. “It wasn’t Covid, it was just her nearly 91-year-old body saying enough is enough.”
“We were there so the passing was as good as one could hope for. Nothing wrong with her brain – even earlier this week she was grilling us both about work. It’s really impossible to believe that she has gone though, because I know we’re not alone in...
No cause of death has been given but her daughters, Sue and Debbie Vertue, who worked with her at Hartswood Films, confirmed she died “peacefully” and surrounded by family.
“It’s with the heaviest of hearts that we have to share the sad news that mum/Beryl passed away peacefully last night,” her daughters and Hartswood Films co-producers Sue and Debbie said in a statement. “It wasn’t Covid, it was just her nearly 91-year-old body saying enough is enough.”
“We were there so the passing was as good as one could hope for. Nothing wrong with her brain – even earlier this week she was grilling us both about work. It’s really impossible to believe that she has gone though, because I know we’re not alone in...
- 2/13/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
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