British Comedy Guide
Jeremy Vine. Copyright: BBC
Jeremy Vine

Jeremy Vine

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Jon Long's Carbon Lifeforms returns to Radio 4 for two specials

Jon Long's environmental comedy Carbon Lifeforms is returning to Radio 4 for two specials, following a successful pilot last year. The first special records in London next month, while the second will air at Christmas.

British Comedy Guide, 23rd May 2023

Jon Holmes to celebrate song mash-ups via Radio 2

The Skewer's mix-and-mash-up supremo Jon Holmes is returning to Radio 2 to host a celebration of musical mash-ups.

British Comedy Guide, 29th November 2022

This Radio 2 pilot also has a live studio audience, but unlike the one watching Dave Against the Machine, this one appeared to be enjoying the show.

This "Comedy Showcase" pilot is an impressionist show covering the behind-the-scenes goings on at Radio 2. It would be lazy and predictable to describe the show as a Radio 2 version of Dead Ringers, but unfortunately that's just what I've done.

It was an entertaining listen, with the first sketch, featuring an incredibly banal and annoying Lily Allen singing to herself about stealing teabags and going to the lavatory, being a great opener. There was also the news being read out by Cheryl Cole; Alan Dedicoat acting as the voice of the Radio 2 lifts; and Shakin' Stevens and Bonnie Tyler's diabolical plan to re-launch their careers.

Admittedly some of the impressions were a bit off, such as the ghost of Winston Churchill appearing on Jeremy Vine's show, but it was still a good sketch with Churchill deciding to launch a pop career. There was also a sketch featuring Louis Spence, which given the fact that he is a dancer might work better on TV.

Personally, my favourite featured an egotistical Sting taking part in Ken Bruce's "Pop Master". Not only did the impression sound right, but it was funny. Mind you, it was always going to find it funny as I don't like Sting. That's what you get when your parents are the biggest Police fans in Teesside.

Usually "Comedy Showcase" pilots do not get full series. In fact, none of them have - which is a shame because I think that Reception could work as a full series - but I for one hope it does.

Ian Wolf, Giggle Beats, 30th May 2011

For those who are interested in the election but can't face endless analysis and Jeremy Vine's Swingometer, here's some light relief: live satire from Jimmy Carr, David Mitchell and Charlie Brooker, who will be riffing off events as they unfold over four hours, with Lauren Laverne adding sass.

The quartet will be joined by a bookmaker, while there will be some pre-recorded segments that include a Come Dine With Me election special featuring Edwina Currie. Wonder if eggs are on the menu?

Sharon Lougher, Metro, 6th May 2010

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