Few Laughs in BBC2 Spring Schedule
BBC2 have announced the programmes that will make up their Spring 2007 schedule.
The hightlights include the return of Top Gear, a new Louis Theroux documentary, Capturing Mary (a serious drama starring David Walliams) and "The Verdict" - a reality show in which 12 celebrity jurors (including disgraced politician Jeffrey Archer) sit in judgement on a four day court trial. What is noticable though is the lack of new comedy. Four new 'comedy' shows which will appear on BBC2 this spring are...
Hyperdrive
Hyperdrive is returning despite the poorly received first series. The spaceship HMS Camden Lock powers its way through the galaxy once again, still promoting the tourist wonders and business opportunities of the UK – now including Wales. No matter what the mission, the crew of the Camden Lock can jump to action at a moment's notice – as long as they are not celebrating Shoegiving Day or making reverse polarity cheese sandwiches.
Commander Michael Henderson (Nick Frost) is still at the helm, always ready to fight the good fight against unwanted alien advances. He has York (Kevin Eldon), his First Officer and resident total psychopath, at his side, and Diplomatic Officer Teal (Miranda Hart), who still harbours a secret love for her Commander. Meanwhile, the hapless Vine and Jeffers spend most of their time avoiding conflict and winding each other up.
Fear, Stress and Anger
The delayed Fear, Stress and Anger is likely to finally see the light of day in early 2007. Still very much in love, Martin Chadwick (Peter Davison) and his wife, Julie (Pippa Haywood), are panicking as they find they are past their sell-by dates and being shunted aside by the next generation. Their 20-something children won't leave home and their ancient parents won't shuffle off the stage. They try drugs, therapy and new jobs, but Martin's unerring ability to screw up absolutely everything, combined with Julie's rampant neuroses, just add to the fear, the stress and the anger.
The Graham Norton Show
Graham Norton presents his brand-new comedy talk show based on the people, trends, stories and aspects of celebrity culture that interest him most – all with a distinctly irreverent BBC Two feel. In other words the BBC are finally giving in and copying the format of "So Graham Norton" in an attempt to get Graham a hit show again.
The Life And Times Of Vivienne Vyle
Vivienne Vyle is a Daytime TV presenter and agony aunt; the woman Britain turns to for real-life confessions and shocking revelations. Every day, before a live audience, Vivienne addresses the big issues such as: "My Son Calls The Wrong Man Daddy" and "I Want A Vagina..."
The fact it's written by BBC3 Consultant Clinical psychologist Dr Tanya Byron (not exactly Dr Funny) and stars the now rarely funny Jennifer Saunders doesn't fill us with hope.
Slim pickings indeed. To see the full BBC2 line up click here: BBC2 Spring 2007 (PDF document)