After much secrecy and speculation, it was confirmed earlier this week that BBC Two would broadcast three special 20th anniversary episodes of cult hit comedy The League of Gentlemen, produced by BBC Studios.
Further details can now be unveiled about what fans can expect. Once again starring Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton and Mark Gatiss, who have written the shows alongside co-creator Jeremy Dyson, filming will begin on the specials next month in Manchester and the Peak District.
The Gentlemen said: “We are thrilled to bits to be returning to Royston Vasey in celebration of our 20 years at the BBC (with time off for bad behaviour). We look forward to digging up the old characters - some of them literally - and seeing how life has treated them. It's been great fun to write these Specials, and we've saved money on the make-up budget by kindly growing ancient ourselves. Like the sign says: You'll Never Leave.”
After a 15 year absence from television screens, once again the team will be playing dozens of characters, the local denizens of the isolated Northern town of Royston Vasey.
The League of Gentlemen's radio series, On The Town with The League of Gentlemen won a silver Sony award 20 years ago this year. The first series of the ground breaking TV series won a BAFTA award, and a Royal Television Society Award, and the prestigious Rose D'Or in Montreux.
The specials are commissioned by Patrick Holland, Controller, BBC Two; Shane Allen, Controller BBC Comedy; and they will be produced by BBC Studios. Gregor Sharp is commissioning editor for the BBC. Executive producer is Jon Plowman, the producer is Adam Tandy, and the director is Steve Bendelack for BBC Studios.
Patrick Holland said: “The League of Gentlemen are comedy heroes of mine and I am delighted they are returning to BBC Two. Added to brilliant upcoming shows like Motherland, the second series of Mum, and the return of Upstart Crow, Two is the home to the most amazing, original, British comedy.”
Shane Allen said: "Their body of work set a new standard for sketch comedy and saw them become the most original, distinct and influential writer performers since Monty Python. This return to their roots is a thrill for British comedy fans everywhere".
Chris Sussman, Head of Comedy for BBC Studios said: "I'm absolutely delighted and utterly terrified to be returning to the world of Royston Vasey for more from the League of Gentlemen. They've been off our screens for far too long - and I think fans everywhere are going to be in for a terrible treat."
