Award-winning comedian, author and cycling enthusiast David O’Doherty is heading out on a carefree, two-wheeled adventure, but he’s not travelling alone.
In The Ride (working title), a new four-part comedy-entertainment series from Zeppotron (part of Banijay UK) and Motion Content Group, David and a different celebrity guest hop on their bikes each week and take to the open road to have some fun and explore some of the most beautiful parts of the UK.
Getting in the saddle alongside David is the artist Grayson Perry, actor and comedian Richard Ayoade, presenter and comedian Mel Giedroyc and comedian and actor Joe Wilkinson.
Whether experienced cyclists or complete novices, David and his guests will be taking to cycle routes across the UK to find out more about each other, share some laughs, get some exercise and enjoy the British countryside.
The Ride is a comedy interview show on two wheels that delivers lots of laughter, proper conversation and stunning scenery while meditating on the physical and mental health benefits of cycling. The series sees David and his guests ride along spectacular routes in Wales, Northumberland, Dungeness in Kent and along the Suffolk coast.
David O’Doherty said: “I think we've all seen enough of very fit cyclists racing up mountains and whooshing round tracks on our televisions. Now it's time for quite out-of-shape people getting lost as they pedal towards a beautiful landmark that’s supposed to be just over there.”
Jonny Rothery, commissioning editor for Channel 4, said: “Charming, revealing and full of picturesque locations, The Ride puts a new spin on celebrity interviews as we see the wonderfully funny David O’Doherty take to the road with these four brilliant characters.”
Peter Holmes, executive producer for Zeppotron, added: “We are so pleased to be able to help David share his passion for cycling as he freewheels around the most beautiful parts of Britain exploring the minds and calves of his fascinating guests.”
Martin Oxley, Head of Formats and Entertainment UK and executive producer for Motion, commented: “Getting out and about with David and his amazing guests looks set to be the ideal antidote to all our post-lockdown blues, full of gorgeous landscapes and our host’s infectious sense of fun.”
The Ride is a 4 x 60’ series created by David O'Doherty and is being co-produced by Zeppotron (a Banijay UK company) and Motion Content Group. The series is produced by James Fidler, directed by Leo McCrea and the executive producers are David O'Doherty, Ruth Phillips, Peter Holmes and Martin Oxley for Motion Content Group. It was commissioned for Channel 4 by Jonny Rothery, commissioning editor, Entertainment with Sarah Lazenby, formerly Head of Features and Formats.
Debra Blenkinsop is Zeppotron’s director of operations, Charlotte Hopkinson is the production executive and Hannah Thompson is the line producer. Caroline Bourne is production executive for Motion Content Group.
The Ride is represented internationally by Banijay Rights.
