The Fast Show to return?
The Fast Show, the hit 1990s sketch show, could be set for a comeback.
Simon Day, one of the show's writers and actors, appeared on ITV chat show Daybreak this morning to plug his new autobiography. When asked about the sketch show, he confirmed that the creators have had several meetings to discuss the idea of bringing back the show.
He said: "I can't divulge too much at the moment but certain members of The Fast Show have been convened together in a room in utmost security."
The Fast Show, which also starred Charlie Higson, Paul Whitehouse, Mark Williams, Arabella Weir, John Thomson and Caroline Aherne, appeared on BBC Two for three series between 1994 and 1997. It was noted for delivering short sketches and for its heavy focus on catchphrase-based humour. The idea of the format was born when Whitehouse and Higson saw a preview tape of Harry Enfield's show which had been edited into fast-cut highlights for press reviewers. They realised they could create a sketch show that did away with long build-ups to punchlines.
Although The Fast Show ended 14 years ago, the team have staged a live tour in 2002 and were reunited in 1997 to launch a DVD. The programme also generated a number of spin-off sitcoms based on characters from the show, including Grass (based on the character of Billy Bleach), Ted And Ralph and Swiss Tony.
Since The Fast Show, Higson, Whitehouse, Weir and Day have worked together on spoof Radio 4 phone-in show Down The Line, and the TV version of the format, Bellamy's People.
Here is a classic clip from the show, in which Johnny Depp made a cameo appearance: