BBC gears up sitcom writers' rooms
- The BBC is funding five production companies to run writers' rooms to help generate new sitcom hits
- BBC Studios, Big Talk Studios, Hat Trick, Roughcut and Various Artists Ltd are reportedly the companies selected
BBC Studios, Big Talk Studios, Hat Trick, Roughcut and Various Artists Ltd are reportedly the five production companies who will be running writers' rooms in an attempt to make the BBC's next sitcom hit.
The news follows last year's announcement by BBC comedy boss Jon Petrie that the corporation would fund writers' rooms as it seeks out new mainstream comedy formats.
In a speech at the BBC Comedy Festival in Glasgow he said: "We know that making a laugh out loud series is much easier said than done. So, in order to supercharge development in that area we are announcing a brand-new initiative for UK producers. We are committing to funding writers' rooms with show ideas originated and led by an experienced showrunner to create the next big UK sitcom with broad appeal."
Industry website Deadline says: "Projects are being kept under wraps but we are told writers' rooms have opened and are beginning to staff up. The indies are tasked with coming up with a pilot script, episode outlines and a writing team ready to go. More than one idea could make it to screen."
All five companies have a track record of making TV sitcoms.
Sitcoms already on the production slate of BBC Studios include Mandy, Here We Go and Mammoth.
Big Talk Studios is currently making new show Transaction for ITV1, a second series of The Completely Made-Up Adventures Of Dick Turpin, plus Can You Keep A Secret?, a six-part BBC One series which will star Dawn French and Mark Heap.
Hat Trick has just delivered new sitcom Smoggie Queens, and a new special from Outnumbered which formed part of the BBC's festive schedules.
Roughcut has been commissioned to make two more series of We Might Regret This, a second series of Things You Should Have Done and a third series of Big Boys.
Various Artists Ltd is already working on second series of BBC Three sitcoms Such Brave Girls and Juice.
Further details about the BBC's plans are expected to be revealed at the BBC Comedy Festival 2025, which will take place in Belfast in May.
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