Romesh Ranganathan to host new BBC panel show pilot
- Romesh Ranganathan is to host a new topical comedy panel show pilot for BBC Two called The Ranganation
- The format will see the stand-up joined by guests - including Rob Beckett - to discuss the hot topics of the week
- Additionally, a panel made up of members of the public will be on hand to act as a focus group
Romesh Ranganathan is to host a new topical comedy panel show pilot for BBC Two.
The Ranganation will see the stand-up comedian joined by fellow comedians to "get to the heart of the hot topics everyone's talking about". The format's twist is that the show will feature a 'focus group' - made up of members of the public - who will also join in the discussions.
Producers have released a casting call for people to join the panel. The advert says producers are seeking "fun, opinionated and passionate people from all walks of life to make up this fantastic 'Ranganation'." The casting team add: "Do you enjoy a good debate? Enjoy all things pop culture? On the pulse with breaking news? Then we want to hear from you."
Free tickets are now available to be in the audience to watch the pilot being recorded on Wednesday 20th June at Television Centre.
Producers say: "Joining the brilliantly funny Romesh will be special guests including Rob Beckett, plus Romesh's very own focus group, The Ranganation, a diverse mix of outspoken and passionate people drawn from the Great British public.
"With the help of the Ranganation and his guests, Romesh will guide us through the week's top stories. Expect a lot of laughs and lively debate as Romesh investigates how and why the news matters to you."
The pilot is being overseen by Zeppotron, the production company which also makes the topical formats Frankie Boyle's New World Order and The Mash Report for BBC Two.
It is not currently clear whether the pilot will be broadcast on TV or is just being filmed to allow channel executives to decide whether to order a series.
Last year Ranganathan co-hosted a topical BBC Two pilot called That Thing On Friday Night and, in 2016, another titled That's It For The Week, however neither received a series commission, with the BBC instead opting to go with The Mash Report.
Ranganathan currently has multiple other series heading to television. He is filming travel show Romesh's Really Rough Guide for BBC Two; comedy entertainment format Judge Romesh for Dave; and new sitcom The Reluctant Landlord for Sky.
Also for Sky he has piloted hologram-supported panel show Romesh's Look Back To The Future; and is filming more interviews with sport stars for the channel alongside Rob Beckett. Additionally, he has signed up to become a regular on the next series of A League Of Their Own.
Further details on The Ranganation are expected in due course.