ITV orders impressions series The Imitation Game
- ITV has ordered 7 episodes of The Imitation Game, a comedy show based around impressions
- Alexander Armstrong hosts, with Rory Bremner, Debra Stephenson, Jess Robinson and Luke Kempner
ITV has ordered a series of The Imitation Game, a new comedy show based around impressions.
The broadcaster has ordered 7 episodes following on from a successful pilot, which was recorded in July.
Hosted by Alexander Armstrong, the format sees impressionists Rory Bremner, Debra Stephenson, Jess Robinson and Luke Kempner "challenged to perform their stunning big name impersonations in a series of witty rounds and hilarious games".
Kenton Allen, from co-producers Big Talk Productions, told trade magazine Broadcast that the company was partly inspired to make the show due to popularity of impressionists on Britain's Got Talent. Robinson appeared in the 2017 series of the talent show.
The panel show format will require the impressionists - who will be paired with guest comedians - to undertake a series of rounds, including singing a song in the style of another performer, or voice over old news footage.
Explaining the show at the time of the pilot, producers said: "What will happen when Donald Trump rubs shoulders with Cheryl Cole, or Boris Johnson duets with Adele?"
The show will be produced by Big Talk and Random Entertainment, the makers of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue. The format has been created by Graham Garden, Jon Naismith, Ali Crockatt and David Scott.
This will be Alexander Armstrong's second panel for ITV. Earlier in the year he hosted the interactive Don't Ask Me Ask Britain for the channel.
The Imitation Game is expected to be filmed and broadcast next year.