Podcasts about British Comedy Guide

In today's episode, Johnny Mack covers a range of news from the comedy world. Shane Gillis shares his amusing and tense interaction with Nick Saban over some college football jokes. Dave Attell, now 60, reflects on his career and new special 'Hot Cross Buns'. Nate Bargatze is honored with a gym named after him, Kathy Griffin discusses her record-setting number of TV specials and her career struggles. Leanne Morgan's new book receives a mixed review, and Gabriel Iglesias talks about the importance of staying true to one's comedy. The episode also highlights the burning of Altadena's micro-theater PDA, updates on the Just for Laughs Vancouver lineup, and the Supreme Court of Canada's decision on a case involving comedian Mike Ward. Lastly, the British Comedy Guide's Next Big Thing Award finalists are announced.00:00 Introduction and Today's Headlines00:12 Shane Gillis and Nick Saban Controversy02:30 Nate Bartgatze's Honor and Donation02:52 Dave Attell Reflects on Turning 6003:59 Kathy Griffin's Record and Opinions06:06 Gabe Iglesias on Comedy and Criticism07:25 Public Displays of Altadena Tragedy08:05 Just for Laughs Vancouver Lineup08:44 Mike Ward's Legal Battle09:24 The Next Big Thing in ComedyUnlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media! Get all our shows on any player you love, hassle free! For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. No plug-ins needed!  You also get 20+ other shows on the network ad-free!    This podcast supports Podcasting 2.0 if you'd like to support the show via value for value and stream some sats! https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com  John's free substack about the media:  Media Thoughts  is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news--4522158/support.

Archie Henderson is an award-winning writer, actor, musician, and creator of viral comedy character Jazz Emu, whose videos and songs have garnered over 50 million streams. He was named as the 26th out of 50 funniest comedians of the 21st Century by The Telegraph. His musical character comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2022 (Jazz Emu: You Shouldn't Have), was included on The Telegraph's “Top Shows To See At The Edinburgh Fringe”, and the British Comedy Guide's “Best Reviewed Shows At The Edinburgh Fringe”. In late 2022, he took the show to the main stage of London's Soho Theatre for a week's sell-out run, receiving stellar reviews. In Chortle's 2023 Awards, Archie won in two categories - 'Best Variety or Character Act' and the 'Social Media Award'. Since 2019, he has been building a cult following with songs and sketches from his awkwardly-smooth comedy character Jazz Emu, resulting in plays on BBC RADIO 1, multiple performances on BBC RADIO 4's THE NOW SHOW as well as on Cats Does Countdown on Channel 4 .Archie Henderson is guest number 420 on My Time Capsule and chats to Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things he'd like to put in a time capsule; four he'd like to preserve and one he'd like to bury and never have to think about again .For gigs, music and everything Jazz Emu, visit - https://www.jazzemu.com .Follow Jazz Emu on Twitter & Instagram: @thejazzemu .Follow My Time Capsule on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook: @MyTCpod .Follow Michael Fenton Stevens on Twitter: @fentonstevens & Instagram @mikefentonstevens .Produced and edited by John Fenton-Stevens for Cast Off Productions .Music by Pass The Peas Music .Artwork by matthewboxall.com .This podcast is proud to be associated with the charity Viva! Providing theatrical opportunities for hundreds of young people. Get bonus episodes and ad-free listening by becoming a team member with Acast+! Your support will help us to keep making My Time Capsule. Join our team now! https://plus.acast.com/s/mytimecapsule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colin Hoult is best known for his work with Ricky Gervais on Derek (Channel 4), After Life (Netflix) and Gervais and Merchant's Life's Too Short (BBC). His acting credits include Ghosts (BBC), Trying (Apple), Almost Never (CBBC), Four Weddings and a Funeral (Hulu), This Time with Alan Partridge (BBC), Being Human (BBC) and BBC3's award-winning Murder In Successville. Colin is a successful character comedian – he is well known for his celebrated ‘has-been actress' character Anna Mann and has received great critical acclaim for his live shows, which were listed among the best-reviewed comedy shows at the Fringe by British Comedy Guide. Colin is a prolific writer and former winner of the Writers' Guild Award for Comedy. He penned a hugely successful trilogy of live shows which were adapted into a Radio 4 series, Colin Hoult's Carnival of Monsters . Colin Hoult is guest number 406 on My Time Capsule and chats to Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things he'd like to put in a time capsule; four he'd like to preserve and one he'd like to bury and never have to think about again .Get tickets for Colin Hoult's Edinburgh show here - https://www.pleasance.co.uk/event/colin-hoult-colin .Follow Colin Hoult on Twitter: @colinhoult & Instagram: @colinhoultcomedy .Follow My Time Capsule on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook: @MyTCpod .Follow Michael Fenton Stevens on Twitter: @fentonstevens & Instagram @mikefentonstevens .Produced and edited by John Fenton-Stevens for Cast Off Productions .Music by Pass The Peas Music .Artwork by matthewboxall.com .This podcast is proud to be associated with the charity Viva! Providing theatrical opportunities for hundreds of young people. Get bonus episodes and ad-free listening by becoming a team member with Acast+! Your support will help us to keep making My Time Capsule. Join our team now! https://plus.acast.com/s/mytimecapsule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Garrett Millerick's breakout television performance was on the hit US late-night talk show Conan. His live show Sunflower became one of the best reviewed and most talked about shows of 2018, both at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and subsequently at London's Soho Theatre. The show was Time Out London's No.1 Comedy Pick and saw Garrett receive a nomination for ‘Breakthrough Act' at the 2019 Chortle Awards. Garrett has since followed up the show with Smile and Just Trying to Help. The Times called Smile one of the stand out shows of the year and The British Comedy Guide named it one of the best reviewed shows of the year. All three shows transferred to London before touring the UK and have been recorded by 800 Pound Gorilla Records to stream and purchase internationally. His show Just Trying to Help was nominated for best show at the Leicester Comedy Festival and also received critical acclaim at the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Garrett is currently working on a new sitcom which previously recorded a pilot for Audible produced by Hat Trick Productions and starring Jack Dee and Meera Syal .Garrett Millerick is guest number 405 on My Time Capsule and chats to Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things he'd like to put in a time capsule; four he'd like to preserve and one he'd like to bury and never have to think about again .Get tickets for Garrett Millerick's Edinburgh show here - https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/garrett-millerick-needs-more-space .Follow Garrett Millerick on Twitter & Instagram: @millerickcomedy .Follow My Time Capsule on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook: @MyTCpod .Follow Michael Fenton Stevens on Twitter: @fentonstevens & Instagram @mikefentonstevens .Produced and edited by John Fenton-Stevens for Cast Off Productions .Music by Pass The Peas Music .Artwork by matthewboxall.com .This podcast is proud to be associated with the charity Viva! Providing theatrical opportunities for hundreds of young people. Get bonus episodes and ad-free listening by becoming a team member with Acast+! Your support will help us to keep making My Time Capsule. Join our team now! https://plus.acast.com/s/mytimecapsule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lou has been making online sketches for over 5 years, gaining 18 millions views, 25,000 followers and been featured on British Comedy Guide and in Heat magazine as a ‘Content creator of the Year' nominee. This is her origin story. Lou also talks about her 2024 Edinburgh show, 'Lou Taylor: Jeans and a Nice Top'. Image by Michael Julings. Presented by Martin Walker. Lou's Profile and Social Media HERE www.onthemic.co.uk  

Alison Spittle is has an eye for the absurd. From her stand-up to her TV work to her play-writing, Alison offers a new angle. Much of her anger focuses on injustice, and she talks to us about the misogyny and harassment she's faced within her industry. As well as what she's done about it.  Voted one of British Comedy Guide's best reviewed artists of the Edinburgh Fringe, this funny woman has appeared on You're Dead To Me, Guilty Feminist and The Gargle. She's the co-host of BBC Sounds' hugely popular Wheel of Misfortune podcast with Kerry Katona. She's currently on tour around the UK with her ridiculously funny show Soup, centred around her love of this hot liquidy food stuff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joke Thieves is a live stand-up comedy show and podcast where comedians tell jokes and we roast, disect and re-tell their jokes in front of an audience and behind-closed-doors. Links to the Jokes, Comics, Sketches and everything else we talk about today: 0:52 Superman 3 'Fire' scene https://youtube.com/watch?v=1UpUjmKJaso 1:11 Stephen Carlin's 'Superman' routine https://youtube.com/watch?v=yk2PDZotg8M 4:19 Will Mars' 'Gallon' joke https://youtube.com/watch?v=suaB2O09NH4 8:39 Shalaka Kurup's 'Parents' joke https://youtube.com/watch?v=aDLyeIrQqYw 11:10 Check out Matt Rouse https://youtube.com/watch?v=5FY2lXngmCw 11:22 Check out Jane Hill https://youtube.com/watch?v=sTzkf575kCE 12:22 Kathryn Mathers 'Moon Cup' jokes https://youtube.com/watch?v=Sfv6oiA89O8 15:51 Bass6 teaches beatboxing https://youtube.com/watch?v=jaAQnpYI-hI 16:37 Joke Thieves Episode 2 & the intimate sound effects https://youtube.com/watch?v=B3CA-VIkDAQ 20:26 Check out Peter Jones https://youtube.com/watch?v=SJta-sRq5cM 21:17 Jimeoin's 'Eyebrows' bit https://youtube.com/watch?v=ZaO-llc_E64 21:57 Bill Burr's 'Driving' routine https://youtube.com/watch?v=LAx_3rFEZDM 26:32 Mitch Hedburg's 'The Dufresnes' bit https://youtube.com/watch?v=Mf3ym0rdf_g 35:56 Blackadder's 'Dead Rabbit' scene https://youtube.com/watch?v=35fyuyLgmYY 36:17 Mike Reid's 'Dave's Dead' joke https://youtube.com/watch?v=WbUSGOAa-Zc 38:05 Joe Rogan talks about Robin Williams as a joke thief https://youtube.com/watch?v=jPhkl5aL0h0 42:59 Sarah Silverman sues OpenAI https://youtube.com/watch?v=qNQ002BBUtw 43:35 ChatGPT Joke Challenge Video https://youtube.com/watch?v=QyAwW56U7vg 48:48 Rodney Dangerfield's 'Nobody's Home' joke https://youtu.be/Tx2dzYz2F8g?si=dNpIJZaNK0QNc4Od&t=24 49:15 Nate Bargatze's 'Time Travel' bit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXy3uII-xn0 50:34 Patrice O'Neal's 'Series of Holes' bit https://youtu.be/yauS_XKlqwM?si=zWU893ZKFRtH9p3R&t=97 52:23 Check out Steven Wright https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tiGag5emLJg 54:15 Eddie Pepitone's 'Round of Applause' routine https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB7cYbvXFq4 Subscribe - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw7dvxd9e2XEQSm8hqoqAtA?sub_confirmation=1 Live Show Tickets - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/comedians-comedy-club-35582132523 Support us for free tickets and ad-free unedited episodes - https://patreon.com/JokesFromMars Follow Us Will Mars - https://www.instagram.com/jokesfrommars/ Bass6 - https://www.instagram.com/thebass6/ Stephen Carlin - https://www.instagram.com/stephencarlincomedian/ Shalaka Kurup - https://www.instagram.com/shalakakurup Recorded at Backyard Comedy Club, London Our show started out as a bit of fun with friends back in 2012 and soon gained a huge cult following, packing out comedy clubs and festivals around the world. As of now - SEP 2023 - we're recording our shows as a live podcast at the Backyard Comedy Club in the East End of London. "It's a comedians' in-joke that everyone in the room can enjoy" Alice Jones, The Independent "One of the most eye-opening hours I've spent at the fringe … a brilliant format" Brian Logan, The Guardian "An annual must for comedians and comedy fans alike" Julie Seabaugh, LA Weekly "Arguably the best new themed-show idea on the block right now" Brian Donaldson, The List "One of the best live shows we've seen!" Mark Boosey, British Comedy Guide 'Critics Pick' Elise Czajkowski, New York Times

Rerun: Oscar-winning conductor André Previn was an unlikely choice of celebrity guest for the Christmas special of ‘The Morcambe and Wise Show' recorded on 7th December, 1971 - but the 13-minute sketch they taped together remains one of Britain's all-time favourites. The music hall-style caper - which revolves around a comically catastrophic interpretation of Grieg's Piano Concerto - was actually a reversion of a sketch Eric and Ernie had performed at least twice before, but never with a guest performer. In this episode, Arion, Rebecca and Olly explain how Mia Farrow helped Previn nail his role in this iconic skit; explore whether the duo's comic schtick was truly as ‘classless' as is often claimed; and reflect on whether ‘Mr Preview' really knew what he was letting himself in for… Further Reading: • André Previn on ‘The Morcambe and Wise Show' (BBC, 1971): https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xds7am • 'Make any fool of me you like, but I won't have you make fun of the music' - André Previn at 80 (Classic FM, 2018): https://www.classicfm.com/artists/andre-previn/guides/andre-previn-80/ • ‘The Prelude of Mr Preview: How André Previn won over Morecambe & Wise' (British Comedy Guide, 2020): https://www.comedy.co.uk/features/comedy_chronicles/andre-previn-prelude-preview/ ‘Why am I hearing a rerun?' Every Thursday is 'Throwback Thursday' on Today in History with the Retrospectors: running one repeat per week means we can keep up the quality of our independent podcast. Daily shows like this require a lot of work! But as ever we'll have something new for you tomorrow, so follow us wherever you get your podcasts: podfollow.com/Retrospectors Love the show? Join 

“He's a comedy genius, one of the funniest things I've seen. Sublime, original and brilliant”The Independent“Quite simply, he is mind blowing, so if you fancy your mind being blown Paul Foot is one of the few comedians working today who can do it for you” The Mirror “A deranged genius” Sydney Morning Herald “An exquisite symphony of jubilant madness” Melbourne Age “A work of genius (..) Highly intellectual and ridiculously silly (..) A treasure”Chortle “Comedy gold” Broadway World “Simply one of the best I've ever seen (..) True alternative comedy at it's very best” British Comedy Guide “A delight (..)Silly and inspired” FestCatch Paul Foot on tour with Dissolve, a brand-new show which promises to be his most personal, surprising and inspired stand-up offering ever. Tickets go paulfoot.tv, seetickets.com and plosive.co.uk. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's this, Smack The Pony's Fiona Allen? Oh HELLO. Ahead of Fiona's debut – debut! – standup show, Fiona Allen: On The Run, our Mick got on the Zoom to this one-woman whirlwind to chat Smack The Pony (obvs), women and comedy (obvs), and falling in love with a bull (erm). Fiona Allen: On The Run, kicks off with an Edinburgh Fringe run at the Pleasance Courtyard from the 2nd to 20th of August, before going on a UK tour. For details of dates, just type ‘Fiona Allen On The Run tour' into Google – or whichever search engine you use – and you'll find links to Chortle and the British Comedy Guide. Or click here. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/standardissuespodcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part II of II. What makes Josh Jones a Gobby Manc Princess? The TV funny man gets a lot of his sense of humour from his mum. But in spite of being Manchester's favourite "gobby princess" it's him who's more prude than his mum. 8am nights out, making fun of mum on the telly and more in this episode of My Mum Made Me. Josh Jones - The Comedian Who Captivates Audiences WorldwideJosh Jones, born in Salford, Greater Manchester, England, is a fast-rising star in the world of comedy. With his unique wit, charm, and relatable humor, Jones has captivated audiences on the global stage. This comprehensive biography delves into his early life, breakthrough moments, and rapid ascent in the comedy world.Early Life and Beginnings in ComedyBorn in 1990, Josh Jones grew up in a working-class family in Salford. As a child, Jones' passion for comedy was ignited by watching iconic British comedy shows and stand-up comedians. He studied drama and theatre at Salford City College before embarking on his comedy career. In 2015, he began performing at local comedy clubs and quickly gained a reputation for his natural comedic talent.Comedy Style and InfluencesJones' comedy style is characterized by his relatable storytelling and quirky observations. His humor often draws on his working-class background and LGBTQ+ experiences, making his performances both engaging and thought-provoking. He has cited comedians such as Victoria Wood, Peter Kay, and Sarah Millican as significant influences on his comedic approach.Breakthrough and Success on the Comedy CircuitJosh Jones' big break came in 2017 when he won the prestigious Frog and Bucket World Series comedy competition. This triumph propelled him into the limelight and led to appearances at major comedy festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Leicester Comedy Festival. Jones has since become a regular on the UK comedy circuit, captivating audiences with his vibrant stage presence and razor-sharp wit.Television and Radio AppearancesJones' success on the comedy circuit opened doors to TV and radio appearances. He has appeared on popular shows like BBC Two's "Live at the Apollo" and Channel 4's "8 Out of 10 Cats." Additionally, Jones has been a guest on BBC Radio 4's "Comedy Showcase" and Absolute Radio's "The Jason Manford Show."Awards and AccoladesJosh Jones' comedic prowess has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades, including the Chortle Student Comedy Award and the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year Award. Jones was also named one of the British Comedy Guide's 'Best Newcomers' in 2019.Future Projects and PerformancesJosh Jones continues to tour, sharing his unique brand of humor with fans worldwide. As his star continues to rise, fans eagerly await news of his next projects, including potential comedy specials and acting roles.In SummaryJosh Jones has emerged as a bright star in the comedy world, with his relatable humor and unique storytelling resonating with audiences globally. With a growing list of accolades and increasing demand for his performances, the future looks bright for this talented comedian.

Part I of II. When I told Josh Jones that when I was 11 my mum asked me and my sister to, upon her death, bury her biodegradably in the local park, he had some sage advice. Don't do it... one of the funniest men I've ever spoken with and self-confessed Gobby Manc Princess, Josh Jones....Josh Jones - The Comedian Who Captivates Audiences WorldwideJosh Jones, born in Salford, Greater Manchester, England, is a fast-rising star in the world of comedy. With his unique wit, charm, and relatable humor, Jones has captivated audiences on the global stage. This comprehensive biography delves into his early life, breakthrough moments, and rapid ascent in the comedy world.Early Life and Beginnings in ComedyBorn in 1990, Josh Jones grew up in a working-class family in Salford. As a child, Jones' passion for comedy was ignited by watching iconic British comedy shows and stand-up comedians. He studied drama and theatre at Salford City College before embarking on his comedy career. In 2015, he began performing at local comedy clubs and quickly gained a reputation for his natural comedic talent.Comedy Style and InfluencesJones' comedy style is characterized by his relatable storytelling and quirky observations. His humor often draws on his working-class background and LGBTQ+ experiences, making his performances both engaging and thought-provoking. He has cited comedians such as Victoria Wood, Peter Kay, and Sarah Millican as significant influences on his comedic approach.Breakthrough and Success on the Comedy CircuitJosh Jones' big break came in 2017 when he won the prestigious Frog and Bucket World Series comedy competition. This triumph propelled him into the limelight and led to appearances at major comedy festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Leicester Comedy Festival. Jones has since become a regular on the UK comedy circuit, captivating audiences with his vibrant stage presence and razor-sharp wit.Television and Radio AppearancesJones' success on the comedy circuit opened doors to TV and radio appearances. He has appeared on popular shows like BBC Two's "Live at the Apollo" and Channel 4's "8 Out of 10 Cats." Additionally, Jones has been a guest on BBC Radio 4's "Comedy Showcase" and Absolute Radio's "The Jason Manford Show."Awards and AccoladesJosh Jones' comedic prowess has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades, including the Chortle Student Comedy Award and the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year Award. Jones was also named one of the British Comedy Guide's 'Best Newcomers' in 2019.Future Projects and PerformancesJosh Jones continues to tour, sharing his unique brand of humor with fans worldwide. As his star continues to rise, fans eagerly await news of his next projects, including potential comedy specials and acting roles.In SummaryJosh Jones has emerged as a bright star in the comedy world, with his relatable humor and unique storytelling resonating with audiences globally. With a growing list of accolades and increasing demand for his performances, the future looks bright for this talented comedian.

Featuring BEC HORSLEY & SAM BARTROP. Award Winning Writer & Performer. Euro 2020 Comedy Champion. British Comedy Guide's Production Award Winner. 258k plus TikTok followers from London, United Kingdom. Videos have emerged as a popular content format in recent years. You can rely on videos to market your product virtually, educate your audience, increase brand engagement, and keep your social media updated. With more and more brands making their presence known on Instagram TikTok and YouTube, it would be foolish to ignore the meteoric rise of video marketing. You should also focus on filming more videos for audience development and bringing your brand image alive. Once you have the basics nailed down on how to make a marketing video, it is time to make your strategies more effective. Video content is no longer an option anymore; it is the key to every successful brand. With creativity and effort, you can create engaging content that will drive traffic to your website and increase brand awareness

Episode 97 features BEC HORSLEY & SAM BARTROP. Award Winning Writer & Performer. Euro 2020 Comedy Champion. British Comedy Guide's Production Award Winner. 258k plus TikTok followers from London, United Kingdom.Videos have emerged as a popular content format in recent years. You can rely on videos to market your product virtually, educate your audience, increase brand engagement and keep your social media updates. With more and more brands making their presence known on Instagram TikTok and YouTube, it would be foolish to ignore the meteoric rise of video marketing. You should also focus on filming more videos for audience development and bringing your brand image alive.Once you have the basics nailed down of how to make a marketing video, it is time to make your strategies more effective.Video content is no longer an option anymore; it is the key to every successful brand. With creativity and effort, you can create engaging content that will drive traffic to your website and increase brand awareness.WATCH IT ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQQHzelWsyqUXmKpVymyWhwWATCH IT ON TIKTOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@thecreativetalkpodcast?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc✅ For business inquiries contact me at thecreativetalkpodcast@gmail.com✅ Let's connect:INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/thecreativescoopjansantos/FACEBOOK:https://www.facebook.com/thecreativescoopjansantos/

HORNBEAM was the winner of BEST DIRECTION at the Toronto LGBTQ+ Film Festival. Under cover of darkness, two strangers bond over a shared secret. But how well do they really know each other? Director Biography - Mark Pluck Mark is a London-based writer, director and producer. In 2017 he wrote voyeuristic thriller ‘The Photographer' starring Sophia di Martino (Marvel's Loki) which screened at the East End Film Festival, Danny Boyle's festival ‘Shuffle' and the British Independent Film Festival. In 2019 he produced the comedy-horror short 'Meat is Murder' - in collaboration with London advertising agency VCCP, which was described by the British Comedy Guide as “Really funny, then genuinely unsettling”. In 2020 Mark made his directorial debut with horror short ‘Platform' which received its world premiere at Grimmfest and later screened at Lund Fantastic Festival and the British Horror Film Festival, where Mark was awarded the Rising Star Award. Director Statement: I've always been drawn to stories that explore the lives we live behind closed doors, beyond the carefully curated façade we project out to the world. I'm interested in the lengths we go to in order to conceal these truths and, more importantly, how these actions affect those we care for the most. HORNBEAM is a film that aims to explore some of this rich and rather murky territory through the lens of a tender love story. Set almost entirely within the confines of a van over several nights, it follows two men who are both living a lie and seeking a safe space to come clean. But unfortunately, as is so often the case in life, the truth can be hard to bear. Film playing on the Film Festival Streaming service today. You can sign up for the 7 day free trial at www.wildsound.ca (available on your streaming services and APPS). There is a DAILY film festival to watch, plus a selection of award winning films on the platform. Then it's only $3.99 per month. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Oscar-winning conductor André Previn was an unlikely choice of celebrity guest for the Christmas special of ‘The Morcambe and Wise Show' recorded on 7th December, 1971 - but the 13-minute sketch they taped together remains one of Britain's all-time favourites.The music hall-style caper - which revolves around a comically catastrophic interpretation of Grieg's Piano Concerto - was actually a reversion of a sketch Eric and Ernie had performed at least twice before, but never with a guest performer. In this episode, Arion, Rebecca and Olly explain how Mia Farrow helped Previn nail his role in this iconic skit; explore whether the duo's comic schtick was truly as ‘classless' as is often claimed; and reflect on whether ‘Mr Preview' really knew what he was letting himself in for…Further Reading:• André Previn on ‘The Morcambe and Wise Show' (BBC, 1971): https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xds7am• 'Make any fool of me you like, but I won't have you make fun of the music' - André Previn at 80 (Classic FM, 2018): https://www.classicfm.com/artists/andre-previn/guides/andre-previn-80/• ‘The Prelude of Mr Preview: How André Previn won over Morecambe & Wise' (British Comedy Guide, 2020): https://www.comedy.co.uk/features/comedy_chronicles/andre-previn-prelude-preview/For bonus material and to support the show, visit Patreon.com/RetrospectorsWe'll be back tomorrow! Follow us wherever you get your podcasts: podfollow.com/RetrospectorsThe Retrospectors are Olly Mann, Rebecca Messina & Arion McNicoll, with Matt Hill.Theme Music: Pass The Peas. Announcer: Bob Ravelli. Graphic Design: Terry Saunders. Edit Producer: Emma Corsham.Copyright: Rethink Audio / Olly Mann 2021. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Grett Binchleaf Adventures are now on The Worst Writer In The World podcast, available from British Comedy Guide and wherever you find podcasts.

Steve Whiteley is a writer, director, producer & comedian whom the British Comedy Guide recently called ‘One of the pioneers in the new wave of online comedy.' Betsy & Steve talk about the role of discomfort in comedy & our ability as those in the audience to sit with discomfort, the benefit of mindfulness on creativity & how ego gets in the way. Steve talks about being a beginner with each new project - from his first standup shows to directing a tv pilot - & how his Buddhist practice centres him. You can find more of Steve's work via his website stevewhiteley.co and on IG @offkeysteve   Follow me on Instagram @TheBetsyReed & Support me on Patreon at 

Ali Cook is a historian of deception. He's a sleight of hand expert, a street magician, escapologist, stage illusionist and performer of thought control. "As well as escapology, Cook does jaw-dropping Derren Brown-style mind-reading feats, fabulously dextrous close-up magic, gruesome gross-out pranks and magic tricks the like of which you've never seen before" Steve Bennett, Chortle. Ali has written and starred in the television series Now You See It (BBC1),'Penn And Teller: Fool Us' (ITV1) 'Dirty Tricks' (Channel 4) and 'Monkey Magic '(Five), both nominated for the British Comedy Awards & the Golden Rose of Montreux. 'Psychic Secrets Revealed' with Derren Brown (Five), The Secret World of Magic (Sky 1), 'the Jerry @ Trick show' with Jerry Sadowitz (Five) & Greatest Magic Tricks in the Universe Ever (Channel 5). As well as guest slots on Le Plus Grand Cabaret du monde and The Slammer (CBBC). Ali’s irreverent persona and respected sleight of hand have made him one of the pioneers of the alternative magic scene. His 2010 live show, 'Pieces of Strange', was in the top 2% of best reviewed shows according to The British Comedy Guide. 2011 saw his third sell-out Edinburgh show, 'Principles and Deceptions', which was nominated for a 6 star award by broad way baby. Following these highly innovative live shows Ali has received the highest accolade by The Magic Circle with his promotion to Member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star joining HRH Prince of Wales, David Copperfield, Paul Daniels, Lance Burton and other elite names of magic around the world. Ali has taken a break from the Fringe to pursue his acting career. He played the lead in British Sc-Fi thriller The Call Up. He has also featured in Mr Selfridge (ITV1) and his feature film credits include: BAFTA nominated and BIFA award winning war drama ‘Kajaki’(2015) from the producers of ‘The Kings Speech’, ‘Get Lucky’ (Universal Pictures), ‘The Anomaly’ (Universal Pictures) and ‘The Messenger’ directed by BAFTA and Emmy Award winner David Blair.

In the second of two programmes recorded on March 1st, above-the-title talent John Dredge and his co-writer / producer Richard Cray wobble on about the making of Series 5 of the Nothing to Do with Anything Show, pretty much giving away all the secrets. Why not take them all down in a notebook, arrange some time at your friend Ben’s studio, copy the show verbatim and get a series on Radio 4 well before they do?  They won’t hold it against you. Much. Today’s big questions (thankfully without any hint of Nicky Campbell): What was Richard wearing the first time John met him? Which cartoon character was the inspiration for John’s David Lynch impression? Why were all the irresponsibly unsafe TV shows of the 1970s made by ATV? Does anyone out there still get John’s Hooked on Classics joke? Where have all the sketch shows gone? And did John stick around for a cup of tea once the recording had wrapped? Not heard the show yet? Get thee over to British Comedy Guide at https://www.comedy.co.uk/podcasts/john_dredge_show and stream or download all five series before it becomes an arrestable offence.

And now, before you can say ‘Ymgdgngngjgngfg’ – and in that order – Something or Other Productions presents this splendid and, indeed, splondid compilation of the first four series of John Dredge’s acclaimed yet weird Nothing to Do with Anything Show. Thrill once again to the bizarre sketch comedy podcast that brought you filmmaker David Lynch reading the weather in his own inimitable style and agricultural composer Farmer Collins answering your questions in his own slightly less inimitable style. Marvel once again at everybody’s favourite animated canine, Doggy-Doo, bask in nostalgia with legendary reanimated disc jockey John Peel and revisit the least litigious of amateur Trip Advisor Peter Pilbeam’s distinctly unhelpful hotel reviews. Yes, it’s all go once again in this kaleidoscopic array of fun, laffs and dodgy impressions once again.  Zoinks! The long-awaited new series of the John Dredge Nothing to Do with Anything Show will be available to stream and download exclusively via the British Comedy Guide website from March 24th.  Bookmark it now: https://www.comedy.co.uk/podcasts/john_dredge_show Radio Times Podcast of the Week Chortle Podcast of the Week ‘Oh, just listen.’ – Miranda Sawyer, The Observer

LOOK OUT! It’s only Films To Be Buried With! Join your host Brett Goldstein as he talks life, death, love and the universe with the fantastically funny and awesome writer, comic and showrunner PHEOBE WALSH!Ohhh this one’s a proper goody this week, ladies and gentlemen. Enjoy the mystic brew of Brett and Phoebe as they get down to the real business of - obviously - film and all things cinematic, but also the greater business of life and matters of the existential. So be prepared for some very real moments involving family members with and not with us (all handled immaculately and hilariously as I’m sure you would expect), as well as writers room traditions and snack selections (and the differences between the USA situation and the UK situation of said rooms), being surrounded by funeralists, the lack of mainstream weepies and the very much not-okay-ness of Carry On films. IT WAS A DIFFERENT TIME. Nevertheless… Anyway - have fun with Phoebe, it’s a lovely episode folks!FILMS TO BE BURIED WITH is LIVE in ISLINGTON on the 26th FEB!LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE:• PHOEBE on TWITTER!• PHOEBE on IMDB!• PHOEBE on INSTAGRAM!• PHOEBE on BRITISH COMEDY GUIDE!• BRETT GOLDSTEIN on TWITTER!• BRETT GOLDSTEIN on INSTAGRAM!• BRETT GOLDSTEIN on PATREON!• 'SUPERBOB' - Brett's 2015 feature film!• 'CORNERBOYS' with BRETT & SCROOBIUS PIP!• DISTRACTION PIECES NETWORK on FACEBOOK• DISTRACTION PIECES NETWORK on INSTAGRAM See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

LOOK OUT! It’s only Films To Be Buried With! Join your host Brett Goldstein as he talks life, death, love and the universe with the excellent comicsmith and podcaster TOM NEENAN!Top class cinematic goodness this week with Brett and Tom, who get into some full on life stuff and that entails via the infinitely rewarding medium of film. You may know Tom from his stellar work with frequent and welcome show guest Nish Kumar, or maybe Tom’s own podcast ‘Not All Men’ (I remember hearing the first murmurings of it on the Kermode and Mayo podcast), but at any rate this is a perfect opportunity to get to know him all the way better! From his works with Nish and The Mash Report / Mock The Week and so on, to being the first gift giver on the podcast (you’ll have to listen to discover that particular 3 star nugget!), to his own podcast making, crying and how people withholding a cry on film delivers greater impact, chasing the Jurassic Park dragon (or pterodactyl, whatever works) and some amazing proposal plans - it’s all in here and basically a delightful episode! Please enjoy.FILMS TO BE BURIED WITH is LIVE in ISLINGTON on the 26th FEB!LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE:• TOM on TWITTER!• TOM on THE INTERNET!• TOM's PODCAST!• TOM on BRITISH COMEDY GUIDE!• BRETT GOLDSTEIN on TWITTER!• BRETT GOLDSTEIN on INSTAGRAM!• BRETT GOLDSTEIN on PATREON!• 'SUPERBOB' - Brett's 2015 feature film!• 'CORNERBOYS' with BRETT & SCROOBIUS PIP!• DISTRACTION PIECES NETWORK on FACEBOOK• DISTRACTION PIECES NETWORK on INSTAGRAM See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mark Boosey is the founder of the British Comedy Guide (@BritishComedy) a database of all the comedians, TV sitcoms, industry news and more.Stream - http://simoncaine.co.uk/ATI/MarkBooseyiTunes - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-industry-podcast/id946220937?mt=2 YouTube - https://youtu.be/DO1-7IWp6cASpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12wdMpotKGDpFvShobeaoy Use code ATI when signing up for a BCG Pro account to get £5 off your first years membership. https://www.comedy.co.uk/ProIf you’ve enjoyed the pod please send me (@thismademecool) or Mark a thank you tweet and you can support the pod by…If you’d like to support the podcast please do via - PayPal - http://simoncaine.co.ukOr Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/AskTheIndustryPodcast Buy my book about building your own online community - https://amzn.to/35EWT7B Come see me in Australia or New Zealand - Perth (Feb) - https://fringeworld.com.au/whats_on/simon-caine-every-room-becomes-a-panic-room-when-you-overthink-enough-fw2020Adelaide (Feb) - https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/simon-caine-every-room-becomes-a-panic-room-when-you-overthink-enough-af2020Wellington (March) - https://fringe.co.nz/show/42461Dunedin (March) - coming soon.OR at the Dog-friendly comedy club at The Bloomsbury (London) - 18th Jan 2020 - https://www.ucl.ac.uk/event-ticketing/booking?ev=19174Glasgow Fringe - 15th, 22nd, 29th March 2020 - http://www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com/shows/2949 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A firm friend and supporter of the podcast, Mark Boosey, has launched an awesome new side of the British Comedy Guide for comedians / performers called "Pro". In it you can learn about the industry, find out about job opportunities and events, enjoy exclusive articles and podcasts and more! Another big feature I love is that you get control over your CV page (here's mine).If you are going to sign up, please use this link ( https://www.comedy.co.uk/pro/?code=ATI ) and type in ATI in the checkout box so you can save £5 off a years membership (and I get a few quid for everyone who does this as well). Everybody wins. PS I was not paid do this, I wanted to do it to support Mark's work and the BCG in general... and the affiliate link sealed the deal. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Dave and James bring up the ton with a live and lively chat from the Museum of Comedy with the brilliant Marcus Brigstocke and top writer Sarah Morgan, about their Radio 4 sitcom The Wilsons Save The World. Plus details on BCG Pro, British Comedy Guide's new service for those who create comedy.

Hello Flaslammers!! You may or may not know that, as well as your beloved Flatslam, we also have a podcast called Bangers And Mash. The way it works is that we have a chat, listen back to that chat and then write little sketchy interruptions to drop back into the chat like bangers into mash. If you aren't already a listener we thought we'd give you a chance to size up our extra podular activities by sneaking a classic PBaM onto your Flatslam feed. If you like it you can find all the previous episodes at British Comedy Guide. Don't fret, your regular Flatslam will still be dropping on the 1st of the month. Pappy's Bangers And Mash: Series 2, Episode 8 - Pick Up Thy Zorb and Roll Wills & Kate! It's PBam 2.8. Sound the fanfare as the bronze, silver and gold medalists of podcasting hop aboard the podium of sound and sing their national anthems of chat and laugh down your ear canal at world record pace. In a race towards your heart and mind, they cover such events as zorbs, balloons and robots. On your marks - get set - BAM!! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Greetings listener dear!! You may or may not know that, as well as your beloved PBaM, we also have a live podcast called Flatshare Slamdown. If you aren't already a listener we thought we'd give you a chance to hop on board the Flatslam Podbus by popping a classic Flatslam on your PBaM feed. Don't worry you'll also be getting your regular ear-canal filling portion of bangers and mash on the 15th. If you enjoy it you can get all the episodes from our chums at British Comedy Guide: comedy.co.uk/pfs Series 6, Episode 4 (Flatpack Furniture) Matt Forde and Marcel Lucont are on hand to help and/or hinder the assembly of a load of Flatpack Furniture. Also... Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin live on through our panellists mouths, we get all sexy as the panel re-enact some booty calls and then cool down again just in time to help an audience member with an infestation of pimps.

Live from Kirrin Island is a topical comedy show produced by a selection of writers from the British Comedy Guide in conjunction with a team of accomplished performers. The writers are regular contributors to BBC radio comedy shows including Newsjack and Recorded for Training Purposes. We hear from producer and writer Alison Pritchard, script editor Stu Cooper and writer and performer Steve Holford on the collaborative and open process involved in producing such a successful podcast. They offer some insight into the practicalities of pooling their creative talents, the hard lessons learned and their tips for creating your own comedy podcast.

Frame 48 - This is What I Do When You're in the Park. The Mes make a snap decision to play a frame on the old green board while the house is empty, but little do they know who is going to drop by. In the first frame ever to feature another human being apart from any of the many Mes, you won't believe what happens next. It's the shortest podcast ever and there's some spectacular play, but who will come out of this all important 45th tussle between the pair (not including Chris Evans - not that one - trophies, or the frames with Me3). You will get to hear about the very different political views of the players as they both meet the person in the world that they fear the most and feel the shame of being observed for only the fourth ever time (two Chris Evans - not that one- trophies, and the Edinburgh frame). They do not like having their shame exposed. But it's the snooker that you're tuning in for and that's all up the usual standard. Help support this podcast by buying a monthly or one-off badge at http://www.gofasterstripe.com/badges or by coming to see Lord of the Dance Settee on tour http://www.richardherring.com/lotds/tour. Or check out RHLSTP and RHMOL on iTunes or the British Comedy Guide, both with new episodes. And you can watch RHLSTP on video for free too on iTunes, Vimeo or YouTube.

The British Comedy Guide's podcast is back! Chris Addison chats in-depth to Dave Cohen about his comedy career, including how he started in stand-up comedy, and his work on shows including Lab Rats, The Thick Of It, and Veep. He also introduces Trying Again, the new sitcom for Sky Living which he co-created with Simon Blackwell. In the show, he plays a man whose fiancee has had an affair with her boss. Chris explains how the project evolved and what it is like working for Sky TV.

Richard Herring explains about his new project, Meaning Of Life, where you can get stuff for free and what you can do to help us fund this crazy project. A free version of the show will be available at http://vimeo.com/channels/rhmol and there will be longer versions (in both audio and video formats) which you can pay for here - http://www.gofasterstripe.com/rhmol But there will be monthly free content on iTunes and the British Comedy Guide for those of you who can't be doing with paying for entertainment or watching free stuff with your eyes. Also in this podcast, be the first to hear the theme song to the show with music by Christian Reilly and lyrics by Richard Herring.

RHEFP 2013 #12: Bo Burnham, Milton Jones and Paul Gannon - Deus Ex Machina. Apologies to completists, but the first couple of minutes of today's podcast got lost in a recording malfunction, but only cos Jerry spotted it was recording wrong, so in fact the majority has been saved, rather than a little bit lost. Hopefully from thereon in it's OK as Rich chatted to Milton Jones about whether comedians need writers, Planet Mirth, Celebrity Mastermind and Christianity. Paul Gannon comes on to do a set about ghosts, before a now non-jet-lagged Bo Burnham finally makes an appearance to discuss how it's possible for the internet to turn you into a global megastar (nonsense), who chose the paint in his bedroom, cockroaches in his sink and offensiveness in comedy (real, imagined and made-up). If anyone has illegally taped the show the lost bit may be reattached, but otherwise only the people who were actually there will get to witness an underwhelming piece of non-magic and hear about the Me1 Vs Me2 Snooker Podcast (also available on British Comedy Guide and iTunes).

We're back! After a busy few months, WAYLA? returns for more top-quality discussion about comedy - and now in a studio! In this show, host Dave Cohen is joined by activist comic Mark Thomas to talk about his Edinburgh show Bravo Figaro!, all about opera and his dad; and top comedy producer Caroline Norris, the brains behind smash-hit childrens' sketch show Horrible Histories, BBC Three's Dead Boss, and Jack Dee's new Sky Atlantic series Don't Sit In The Front Row. Join the trio - plus British Comedy Guide editor Aaron Brown - to discuss the late, great Eric Sykes; the Edinburgh Fringe; the history of Horrible Histories; compliance, and the BBC. Special thanks also to Daniel Cainer for his assistance in the recording of this episode. You can catch his highly-praised musical storytelling show The Jewbadour on the Free Fringe throughout August.

Dirk Gently (TV series) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: , Dirk Gently Titlescreen of series 1, based on Gently's painted whiteboard. Genre / Created by () Written by Howard Overman Jamie Mathieson Directed by Damon Thomas Starring Composer(s) Country of origin United Kingdom Language(s) English No. of series 1 No. of episodes 3 (+ pilot) () Production Executive producer(s) Howard Overman Saurabh Kakkar () Brian Minchin () Eleanor Moran (BBC - Pilot) Jamie Laurenson (BBC - Pilot) Producer(s) Chris Carey Editor(s) Matthew Tabern Cinematography Ole Bratt Birkeland Camera setup Running time 60 minutes Production company(s) The Welded Tandem Picture Company Distributor Broadcast Original channel (repeats) Picture format Audio format Original run 16 December 2010 – 19 March 2012 Chronology Related shows External links Dirk Gently is a comedy detective drama TV series based on characters from the Dirk Gently novels by . The series was created by and stars as detective and as his Richard MacDuff. Recurring actors include as MacDuff's girlfriend Susan Harmison, as Dirk's nemesis DI Gilks and as Dirk's receptionist Janice Pearce. Unlike most detective series Dirk Gently features broadly comic touches and even some themes such as and . Dirk Gently operates his Holistic Detective Agency based on the "fundamental interconnectedness of all things", which relies on methods to uncover connections between seemingly-unrelated cases. He claims that he follows the principles of , and although the majority of his clients suspect he may be a conman he often produces surprising results. With the help of his assistant, Richard MacDuff, Dirk investigates a number of seemingly unrelated but interconnected cases. An hour-long loosely based on plot elements from Adams' 1987 novel was broadcast on on 16 December 2010 and was watched by 1.1 million viewers. Critical reception was generally positive. A full series of three one-hour episodes was subsequently commissioned in March 2011 and was broadcast on BBC Four in March 2012. The series is the first continuing drama series produced for the digital channel. The series is produced by and The Welded Tandem Picture Company for and shot in . The pilot was written by Howard Overman and directed by Damon Thomas. The full series was written by Overman, and Jamie Mathieson and directed by . The series along with the pilot episode was released on DVD on 26 March 2012 by ITV Studios Home Entertainment. An original television soundtrack album featuring music from the series composed by was released by 1812 Recordings on 5 March 2012. Contents Production Background The novel Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency has its origins in the incomplete 1979 television serial , featuring as the . Location filming in Cambridge had been completed, but a studio technicians' dispute at the BBC meant that studio segments were not completed, and the serial was never transmitted. As a result of the serial's cancellation, Adams reused a number of ideas from this script and his other Doctor Who scripts as the basis for a new novel, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency, published in 1987. Adams published another, in 1988 and at the time of his death in 2001 was working on a third installment to be titled , fragments of which were published posthumously. Each novel features new characters and scenarios, although Dirk (real name Svlad Cjelli), his "ex-secretary" Janice Pearce and Sergeant, later Inspector, Gilks recur in each. The first Gently novel had previously been adapted into a stage play, and a BBC Radio 4 series by which was first broadcast in October 2007 and featured comedian in the title role. According to James Donaghy, Douglas Adams was frustrated that his Dirk Gently novels were never adapted for the screen. Announcement During - a convention - Ed Victor, a literary agent who represents Adams's estate announced that a television adaptation of Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency was in production. was announced to be playing Gently, with as MacDuff and as Susan. It is the first television adaptation of Adams' Dirk Gently series, although characters from the books had appeared in a 1992 episode of . Shooting on the pilot commenced early in October 2010 in Bristol. The director was Damon Thomas and the producer was Chris Carey. Although it was commissioned by the BBC, it was produced by with The Welded Tandem Picture Company. The pilot was first broadcast on on 16 December 2010 and was repeated a number of times during the next month. The pilot gained a commission on 31 March 2011 for a three-part series of one hour-long episodes broadcast on BBC Four in March 2012. The series is the first continuing drama series commissioned by BBC Four. Adaptation The screenplay of the pilot by is not a direct adaptation of the novel, but uses certain characters and situations from the novel to form the basis of a new drama centred around Dirk. Speaking about his interpretation, Howard Overman stated in an interview with Benji Wilson "I'm not even going to try to adapt the book: you can't adapt this story. Especially not on a BBC Four budget. We made the deliberate decision not to do a straight translation of the books. If we'd done that the fans would have felt badly let down, because you can never portray that world on the screen as well as it's been done in people's own imaginations...If you just do a straight adaptation like , people are always going to be quite brutal about it because it's never going to live up to their expectations." Dirk drives an old brown in the production. Stephen Mangan, writing a BBC blog on the programme stated "In my opinion, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and The Long Dark Tea-Time Of The Soul are unfilmable as written...too much happens, there are too many ideas". The pilot concentrates on two relatively minor plot strands in Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: the disappearance of a cat, and the simultaneous disappearance of millionaire Gordon Way. Although time travel is involved in the solution, the novel's entire St Cedd's College / Electric Monk / Coleridge strand is omitted, although key words relating to these elements do appear on Dirk's whiteboard when it is first seen, though they are never subsequently referred to. Other elements from the book, such as the trapped sofa, are also absent and the setting is updated to 2010, with and replacing the answering machine messages in the book. There are changes to the characters too, one notable one being that Susan is Gordon's ex-girlfriend rather than his sister. Several additional elements from Adams's novels, in particular St Cedd's College, were later to appear in the full series. Interviewed about the series, Stephen Mangan noted that "All three episodes are very different in tone and you get a different Dirk with each one...He's on the run from the police in one of them and in another there's a bit of romance in the air, which for Dirk is a surprise because he's probably the most asexual character on TV... There seems to be a vogue for dark, realistic, gritty detective series, apart from perhaps . Dirk has so much humour in it. How many other detectives mix detection with quantum mechanics or drive a 30-year-old brown ?" Each episode of series one was written by different writers, who are mostly known for their contributions to science fiction and fantasy programmes; series creator Howard Overman also created and has written for , has previously written the Doctor Who stories ""/"" and wrote the film and has written scripts for . Cast , best known for his role in the television series , and subsequently , was cast in the main role as holistic detective . Mangan already knew the novel and the author's works, stating in a press release "I've been a fan of Douglas Adams ever since the Hitchhiker's radio series which I used to record as a child and listen to over and over again in my bedroom. It's such a thrill to now be playing one of his brilliant characters. Dirk is a chaotic, anarchic force of nature with a totally unique take on the world. He is described as 'lazy, untidy, dismissive and unreliable'. I've absolutely no idea why they thought I'd be right for the role." Cast alongside him were and , both of whom had previously worked with Mangan in Green Wing and respectively. Darren Boyd and Helen Baxendale returned for the full series, with the character of Richard MacDuff becoming Dirk's "partner/assistant" for each of the episodes. Other regular cast members are as Detective Inspector Gilks and as Dirk's secretary Janice Pearce. The programme pilot featured appearances from , , , . Episode one saw guest appearances by , , Ken Collard, and . Episode two featured roles for , , , Andrew Leung, and Bethan Hanks. Episode three features and . Filming at the was used as the fictional . Although the series is set in the London boroughs of and , the series was shot entirely in . Areas and buildings featured in the programme included the Guildhall, the Bottle Yard, St Thomas Street and the Greenbank area. The second series episode also featured extensive filming around the , with doubling as the fictional Cambridge College . The production's location manager, Rob Champion, noted that each location had to be chosen carefully to avoid featured giveaway clues to Bristol, in particular any building made of the local building material, limestone. He noted that "Episode 2 was the greatest challenge as it included two days material in a Robotic Laboratory. Bristol has such a thing...a joint venture between the two universities, with a very helpful professor, but its landlord was an American corporation with the most unimaginably anal restrictions on access. They basically didn't want us there and took the best part of two weeks to say so...We eventually settled upon a brand new building at the Bristol-Bath Science Park where they could not have been more helpful. All this on a BBC4 budget." Music The series's soundtrack was composed by . In creating the distinctive sound for the main titles and incidental music, Pemberton made use of a , a which is a cross between a and a piano. These instruments were produced in America between 1927 to 1972. The soundtrack also mixes in a harpsichord, synth, bass guitar and drums. A soundtrack album featuring music from the series was released by 1812 Recordings on 5 March 2012. Plot Dirk Gently (real name Svlad Cjelli) operates a Detective Agency based on the "fundamental interconnectedness of all things". To solve cases, Dirk relies on methods for example " navigation" (following people or vehicles who look like they know where they are going, in the hope that they will lead somewhere you want to be) or throwing a dart at a board of words to select the direction of his detection. By following up on apparently random occurences and whims, Dirk discovers connections between seemingly unrelated cases and often produces surprising results. He claims that he follows the principles of (although it is implied when he speaks to an expert in these fields that he doesn't really understand them); most people suspect he is just a conman and he rarely gets paid by clients and is therefore in almost permanent financial difficulty. In the pilot episode, Dirk bumps into a former university friend, Richard MacDuff, who has been made redundant from a job at an electricity board, and takes on a case for him. During the course of his investigation, Dirk hypnotises MacDuff and persuades him into investing his £20,000 redundancy money in his failing detective agency. MacDuff therefore becomes Dirk's partner in the business and "assistant" on investigations. Richard MacDuff's girlfriend, Dr Susan Harmison, was also at university with the pair and is deeply sceptical about Dirk's abilities. Also present at the Agency is Dirk's receptionist Janice Pearce, whom Dirk has not paid for years and who therefore refuses to do any work. Episodes No.TitleDirectorWriterViewing figuresOriginal air date 0 "" Damon Thomas 943 000 16 December 2010 When sets out to solve an apparently simple and harmless disappearance of a cat from an old lady's house, he unwittingly uncovers a double murder which, in turn, leads to a host of even more extraordinary events.  1 "Episode 1" Howard Overman 844 000 5 March 2012 Dirk discovers the connection between two unrelated cases - a client who believes are trying to kill him and another whose horoscopes appear to be coming true.  2 "Episode 2" Tom Shankland 561 000 12 March 2012 Dirk is called back to his old university to protect a valuable robot but within 24 hours it has been stolen and a dead body discovered, with Dirk and MacDuff the prime suspects.  3 "Episode 3" Tom Shankland Jamie Mathieson 592 000 19 March 2012 Dirk's old clients are being randomly murdered with Dirk as the only link. Rather than talk to the police, Dirk elects to leave the country but is waylaid by a series of seemingly unconnected events.  Reception Pilot Stephen Mangan plays the titular holistic detective in the series. The pilot episode gained 1.1m viewers (3.9% share) on BBC Four, which was over three times the channel's slot average. Critical reception for the pilot was largely positive. Several mentioned that it was only a loose adaptation of the novel, although the general consensus was that the essence of the original was maintained. Sam Wollaston in stated "Coming to it fresh, it's a neat story about aforementioned missing cat and time travel, with a smattering of quantum physics and the fundamental connectedness of things. With a lovely performance from Doreen Mantle as the old lady/murderer. Stephen Mangan's good in the title role, too – a teeny bit irritating perhaps, but then Mangan is a teeny bit irritating. So is Dirk Gently, though – it's perfect. Funny too. Quite funny." James Donaghy, also writing in The Guardian stated "Personally I hope Dirk Gently gets made into a full series. The programme shows promising glimpses, has a strong cast and Misfits already proves Overman can write. And a BBC4 adaptation feels like a good fit – Gently being exactly the kind of playground-of-the-imagination curio the BBC made its name indulging." published two reviews. Alice-Azania Jarvis was extremely positive, writing "...there wasn't very much you could fault about the production at all. Right down to the quirky camerawork and youthful, poppy soundtrack (who would have thought the Hoosiers could be so right in any situation?), the director, Damon Thomas, got it pretty spot-on. The result was a pleasingly festive-feeling adventure; part , part , part . And the best thing? There wasn't a Christmas tree in sight. Douglas Adams once claimed that Gently would make a better film character than his more famous hero, . Based on last night's experience, he may well have been right." John Walsh's review for was cooler about the adaptation, although he praised Mangan's performance: "Given the talent and style on display, it should have been a scream. In fact it all seemed a little moth-eaten. Though set in the modern day, it was staggeringly old-fashioned...You could overlook these faults, however, for the joy of Stephen Mangan's performance as the titular gumshoe. With his alarmed-spaniel eyes and jutting-jawed stroppiness, his geography teacher elbow-patches and Medusan hair, he radiates mess...His ineptness as a sleuth provided some fine comic moments. Paul Whitelaw in was also positive, although he noted "At times it felt forced, with a sense of trying slightly too hard when a touch more subtlety would have brought out the essential Adamsian eccentricity." Dan Owen of Obsessed with Film noted that the adaptation played with the idea of inexplicable situations: "Purists may grumble this isn't the Dirk Gently they wanted to see, but it's more accessible and practicable. And while Dirk Gently is certainly another gimmicky detective series (yawn), its details are unique and engrossing enough to shrug off the genre's clichés. In some ways it's a pastiche of whodunits, taking the genre's often tenuous explanations to an outrageous extreme." Paul Whitelaw in noted that "Although Adams's more ambitious concepts are sidelined in favour of a more prosaic - if nonetheless enjoyable - sci-fi mystery, Overman captures at least some of the wit and whimsy of his distinctive comic voice" going on to suggest "This modestly-budgeted pilot suggests potential for a series, so the deviation from Adams's originals makes sense. It also adds yet another very British oddball to the pantheon currently occupied by and . Series One Critical opinion to the full series was mildly positive. The adaptation from the Adams' novels was the focus of several reviews. Jane Simon, writing in The Mirror stated "It's just a shame creator Douglas Adams isn't around to see how Howard Overman has ­transferred Dirk to the screen. He'd definitely approve. Mark Braxton in the Radio Times likewise agreed that "Overman has plucked the comic essence of Adams from his novel...and worked it into a digestible, enjoyably eccentric format." AA Gill writing in the Sunday Times March 11, 2012 wrote 'Who'd have guessed that this would ever get recommissioned?...It has to get a nomination as the greatest waste of the most talent for the least visible purpose or reward." Others complained that the series was not an exact adaptation of the novels. Nigel Farndale in The Telegraph stated "I struggled with Dirk Gently...It had nothing to do with Stephen Mangan's considerable comedic talents, still less with Darren Boyd who plays MacDuff, the Dr Watson to Dirk's Holmes. It is more to do with my devotion to Douglas Adams, upon whose comic novel this series is based...in Douglas Adams, 90 per cent of the pleasure is in the prose, the narration, the felicities of language." Tom Sutcliffe in The Independent felt that the programme's qualities were "spread a little too thinly over a nonsensical thriller plot' and that "laughs... were far too widely spaced in a script that could have done with a lot more editing." Several critics compared the production with the big-budget BBC One detective series Sherlock, the second series of which was broadcast in January 2012. Writing in Metro, Keith Watson said "There's no doubt Sherlock has raised the detecting duo bar on TV...it's more than a match for Sherlock on the dialogue front, neatly catching the surreal humour that was the Adams trademark...but there was no disguising the fact that Dirk Gently was a five-star script being filmed on a one-star budget, making it look like a designer label knockoff when set against the production values lavished on Sherlock. Stuart Jeffries in , meanwhile, found a comparison between the tone of the series and 1960s spy/detective ; "Never since has there been anything so unremittingly silly on British television as Dirk Gently...Dainty harpsichord music tells us we're back in an era of TV misrule, in whose glory days John Steed, Mrs Peel and played fast and loose with viewers' intelligences." The first episode had 737,000 viewers and a 3% audience share but this fell to 415,000 and 2% share for the second episode.[] Series one, including the pilot episode, was released on DVD on 26 March 2012 by ITV Studios Home Entertainment. References ^ James Donaghy "", The Guardian, 16 December 2010 ^ Helena Cole, , SFX, 17 February 2012 ^ "", BBC Press Release, 31 March 2011 ^ Jason Deans, "", The Guardian, 31 March 2011 ^ "", BBC Cult, accessed 19 March 2012 ^ Chris Harvey, "", Daily Telegraph, 16 December 2010 . Retrieved 14 August 2007. News and New Projects page July 2007 of radio version Rob Hastings, "", The Independent, 6 October 2010 at the listing . 6 October 2010. Retrieved 10 October 2010. ^ . Retrieved 10 October 2010. ^ Benji Wilson, , The Telegraph, 5 March 2012 Mangan, Stephen (16 December 2010). . . Retrieved 20 December 2010. ^ Tom Chivers, "", Daily Telegraph, 17 December 2010 ^ "Stephen Mangan speaks about the return to our screens of Dirk Gently", Northampton Chronicle & Echo, 8 March 2012 Helena Cole, "", SFX, 17 February 2012 ^ , British Comedy Guide , Bristol Film Office, accessed 18 March 2012 , Bristol Film Office, accessed 18 March 2012 ^ , thecallsheet.co.uk, accessed 19 March 2012 , Daniel Pemberton's Twitterfeed, accessed 22 March 2012 ^ Stuart Jeffries, "", The Guardian, 5 March 2012 , accessed 22 March 2012 ^ , BBC Four, accessed 19 March 2012 . BARB. Retrieved 4 April 2012. Sam Wollaston "", The Guardian, 16 December 2010 Alice-Azania Jarvis "", The Independent, 17 December 2010 John Walsh, "", The Independent, Sunday, 19 December 2010 Keith Watson, "", Metro, 16 December 2010 Dan Owen, "", Obsessed with Film, 17 December 2010 Paul Whitelaw, "", The Scotsman, 13 December 2010 Jane Simon, "", The Mirror 12 March 2012 Mark Braxton, Radio Times, 5 March 2012 Nigel Farndale, , Daily Telegraph, 9 March 2012 Tom Sutcliffe, " ", The Independent 6 March 2012 Keith Watson, , Metro' 6 March 2012 , Digital Spy, 7 March 2012 External links , at the at the British Comedy Guide

It's the end, my friends and someone is set to win half a bottle of olive oil, some Weetabix and the monarchy of Edinburgh. And we've saved the best till last as Count Buckules is here to tell us about the times he has said inappropriate things on 6Music, how his computer cable must be placed 'just so', a trip to New Zealand with a ventriloquist, what a cock bongo would involve and what it would take for him to fellate Keith Allen. Rich is remarkably indiscreet as always, spreading possibly libellous rumours about certain celebrities and revealing the genesis of a famous Stewart Lee sketch and a classic bit of Alan Partridge. And Seymour Mace is also here to give his controversial views on evolution. Thanks to everyone at The Stand and at The British Comedy Guide for their sterling work. Might we do it again next year? ... Surely not.