On Wednesday 5 June 2024, BBC Four broadcasts an episode of the series Roy Clarke Remembers… A Foreign Field!
Episode Summary
In this episode of “Roy Clarke Remembers… A Foreign Field” on BBC Four, viewers are treated to an intimate glimpse into the world of acclaimed writer Roy Clarke, the creative genius behind some of the BBC’s most beloved sitcoms. From the timeless humor of “Open All Hours” to the iconic characters of “Keeping Up Appearances” and the enduring charm of “Last of the Summer Wine,” Clarke’s contributions to British television have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
As Clarke reflects on his illustrious career, viewers are taken on a nostalgic journey through the making of his iconic sitcoms. With behind-the-scenes anecdotes and exclusive insights, the episode offers a rare opportunity to witness the creative process of one of television’s most prolific writers.
Tune in to BBC Four...
Episode Summary
In this episode of “Roy Clarke Remembers… A Foreign Field” on BBC Four, viewers are treated to an intimate glimpse into the world of acclaimed writer Roy Clarke, the creative genius behind some of the BBC’s most beloved sitcoms. From the timeless humor of “Open All Hours” to the iconic characters of “Keeping Up Appearances” and the enduring charm of “Last of the Summer Wine,” Clarke’s contributions to British television have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
As Clarke reflects on his illustrious career, viewers are taken on a nostalgic journey through the making of his iconic sitcoms. With behind-the-scenes anecdotes and exclusive insights, the episode offers a rare opportunity to witness the creative process of one of television’s most prolific writers.
Tune in to BBC Four...
- 6/5/2024
- by Olly Green
- TV Regular
The veteran British actress Brigit Forsyth has died aged 83, her agent has shared.
Mark Pemberton reported that Forsyth, best known for her roles in a string of British TV comedies, died in her sleep, with her family by her side.
The actress was best known for her role in the 1970s hit comedy Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?, where she played disapproving Thelma, wife of Bob, played by Rodney Bewes.
Other credits included TV dramas Playing the Field and Boon. She also appeared in 1980s sitcoms Tom, Dick and Harriet, and Sharon and Elsie, later appearing as a doctor in short-lived ITV soap opera The Practice.
From 2013 to 2019, she was in the BBC reboot of Open All Hours, playing Madge in Still Open All Hours.
Her agent said in a statement that she “had a varied and notable career in stage, screen and radio”, including roles in theatres “from...
Mark Pemberton reported that Forsyth, best known for her roles in a string of British TV comedies, died in her sleep, with her family by her side.
The actress was best known for her role in the 1970s hit comedy Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?, where she played disapproving Thelma, wife of Bob, played by Rodney Bewes.
Other credits included TV dramas Playing the Field and Boon. She also appeared in 1980s sitcoms Tom, Dick and Harriet, and Sharon and Elsie, later appearing as a doctor in short-lived ITV soap opera The Practice.
From 2013 to 2019, she was in the BBC reboot of Open All Hours, playing Madge in Still Open All Hours.
Her agent said in a statement that she “had a varied and notable career in stage, screen and radio”, including roles in theatres “from...
- 12/2/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Louisa Mellor Feb 21, 2017
Anthology series Inside No. 9 returns for its third series tonight at 10pm on BBC Two. We chatted to creators Pemberton and Shearsmith...
Anthology strand Inside No. 9 is an ingenious antidote to bloated TV storytelling and convuluted multi-series arcs. Created by The League Of Gentlemen and Psychoville's Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith, who write and appear in each episode, it tells original half-hour tales that surprise, delight and unsettle.
See related Alien: Covenant - its new title's meaning & other questions
Thankfully, BBC Two appears to know what a gem it has in the show and is treating it with the care it deserves. Five new episodes following the 2016 Christmas special start airing tonight, and filming is about to get underway on a fourth series.
We spoke to creators Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith about the necessity of keeping Inside No. 9's secrets, the joys of the half-hour format,...
Anthology series Inside No. 9 returns for its third series tonight at 10pm on BBC Two. We chatted to creators Pemberton and Shearsmith...
Anthology strand Inside No. 9 is an ingenious antidote to bloated TV storytelling and convuluted multi-series arcs. Created by The League Of Gentlemen and Psychoville's Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith, who write and appear in each episode, it tells original half-hour tales that surprise, delight and unsettle.
See related Alien: Covenant - its new title's meaning & other questions
Thankfully, BBC Two appears to know what a gem it has in the show and is treating it with the care it deserves. Five new episodes following the 2016 Christmas special start airing tonight, and filming is about to get underway on a fourth series.
We spoke to creators Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith about the necessity of keeping Inside No. 9's secrets, the joys of the half-hour format,...
- 2/8/2017
- Den of Geek
BBC One has commissioned a full series of Still Open All Hours.
The sitcom revival - spun off from classic comedy Open All Hours - debuted with a special episode on Boxing Day 2013.
The episode, which saw David Jason reprise his role of Granville, was one of the highest-rated programmes of the festive period, pulling in a final figure of 12.2m viewers.
Still Open All Hours will return with six new half-hour episodes, with series creator and writer Roy Clarke said to be "delighted" by the news.
David Jason added: "I am so delighted that we are doing a series of Still Open All Hours as the feedback from our Christmas Special has been so rewarding and encouraging.
"We want to have more fun giving the audience the kind of show they seemed to appreciate. It goes to prove that the corner shop is still open all hours."
The new...
The sitcom revival - spun off from classic comedy Open All Hours - debuted with a special episode on Boxing Day 2013.
The episode, which saw David Jason reprise his role of Granville, was one of the highest-rated programmes of the festive period, pulling in a final figure of 12.2m viewers.
Still Open All Hours will return with six new half-hour episodes, with series creator and writer Roy Clarke said to be "delighted" by the news.
David Jason added: "I am so delighted that we are doing a series of Still Open All Hours as the feedback from our Christmas Special has been so rewarding and encouraging.
"We want to have more fun giving the audience the kind of show they seemed to appreciate. It goes to prove that the corner shop is still open all hours."
The new...
- 1/30/2014
- Digital Spy
'Open All Hours' will not return for a full series despite a successful Christmas special. Some 9.5 million viewers tuned in to 'Still Open All Hours', which saw Sir David Jason reprise his role as shopkeeper Granville, over the festive period but the BBC has reportedly decided not to commission a full series based on its success. A BBC insider told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ''Impressive ratings are only part of the recipe for success. The fact that the organisation have been slow off the mark to commission a new series and get contracts tied down is a telling sign.'' Sir David, 73,...
- 1/22/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
Birds_Of_A_Feather_ITV
Upstairs Downstairs, Absolutely Fabulous, Open All Hours, yes the BBC have revived a number of long dead shows over the past few years. Tonight, ITV got in on the act with a revived version of the BBC 90s comedy classic Birds of a Feather. It’s been about 15 years since the BBC cancelled the show and yet the star trio (Linda Robson, Pauline Quirke and Lesley Joseph) looked basically the same. The onscreen chemistry was still there too although their sitz im leben had changed just a tad.
The Stubbs girls previously lived together after their partners were jailed for their role in an armed robbery. At the start of the Birds of a Feather reboot, Sharon is living alone in a shoebox sized bedsit. After a chance encounter with Dorien, Tracey takes pity on her sister and invites her back to the family home.
Upstairs Downstairs, Absolutely Fabulous, Open All Hours, yes the BBC have revived a number of long dead shows over the past few years. Tonight, ITV got in on the act with a revived version of the BBC 90s comedy classic Birds of a Feather. It’s been about 15 years since the BBC cancelled the show and yet the star trio (Linda Robson, Pauline Quirke and Lesley Joseph) looked basically the same. The onscreen chemistry was still there too although their sitz im leben had changed just a tad.
The Stubbs girls previously lived together after their partners were jailed for their role in an armed robbery. At the start of the Birds of a Feather reboot, Sharon is living alone in a shoebox sized bedsit. After a chance encounter with Dorien, Tracey takes pity on her sister and invites her back to the family home.
- 1/2/2014
- by Edited by K Kinsella
One-off Christmas episode on BBC1 starring David Jason as Granville attracts a peak audience of 10 million
The return of Sir David Jason as grocery shop worker Granville in a one-off Christmas special of Open All Hours was the most popular programme on Boxing Day, attracting a peak audience of 10 million.
The success of Still Open All Hours, which aired nearly 30 years after the last episode of the original Ronnie Barker sitcom, meant BBC1 scooped the Christmas honours, airing the most popular shows on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The comedy, which sees Granville and his son inherit the business from the late Barker's domineering shop owner Albert Arkwright, managed an average audience of 9.4 million and a 35.5% share of all TV viewing between 7.45pm and 8.15pm. The show's peak audience briefly touched 10 million.
The success of the show marks a welcome return of form for Jason after last year's sitcom The Royal Bodyguard...
The return of Sir David Jason as grocery shop worker Granville in a one-off Christmas special of Open All Hours was the most popular programme on Boxing Day, attracting a peak audience of 10 million.
The success of Still Open All Hours, which aired nearly 30 years after the last episode of the original Ronnie Barker sitcom, meant BBC1 scooped the Christmas honours, airing the most popular shows on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The comedy, which sees Granville and his son inherit the business from the late Barker's domineering shop owner Albert Arkwright, managed an average audience of 9.4 million and a 35.5% share of all TV viewing between 7.45pm and 8.15pm. The show's peak audience briefly touched 10 million.
The success of the show marks a welcome return of form for Jason after last year's sitcom The Royal Bodyguard...
- 12/28/2013
- by Mark Sweney
- The Guardian - Film News
David Jason's Still Open All Hours was the most-watched programme on Boxing Day, as BBC One continued to lead the festive ratings.
The revival of the classic sitcom attracted an average of 9.43m (39.9%) at 7.45pm, according to initial overnight data.
EastEnders averaged 7.22m (31.3%) as Phil discovered Mick's identity at 7.15pm, with a further 591k (3.4%) tuning into the BBC Three repeat at 10.30pm.
David Walliams and Miranda Hart's comedy Gangsta Granny drew 5.79m (26.6%) at 6.15pm, while the first episode of period drama Death Comes to Pemberley took 5.90m (26.5%) at 8.15pm.
Later in the evening, the Boxing Day edition of Match of the Day pulled in 4.01m (27.3%) between 10.30pm and midnight.
Over on ITV, 5.08m (21.3%) tuned in for Emmerdale's hour-long special at 6.15pm, which saw Declan discover that Megan was trapped inside Home Farm.
The network premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 was seen by 3.67m (14%) between 7.15pm and 10.05pm.
The revival of the classic sitcom attracted an average of 9.43m (39.9%) at 7.45pm, according to initial overnight data.
EastEnders averaged 7.22m (31.3%) as Phil discovered Mick's identity at 7.15pm, with a further 591k (3.4%) tuning into the BBC Three repeat at 10.30pm.
David Walliams and Miranda Hart's comedy Gangsta Granny drew 5.79m (26.6%) at 6.15pm, while the first episode of period drama Death Comes to Pemberley took 5.90m (26.5%) at 8.15pm.
Later in the evening, the Boxing Day edition of Match of the Day pulled in 4.01m (27.3%) between 10.30pm and midnight.
Over on ITV, 5.08m (21.3%) tuned in for Emmerdale's hour-long special at 6.15pm, which saw Declan discover that Megan was trapped inside Home Farm.
The network premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 was seen by 3.67m (14%) between 7.15pm and 10.05pm.
- 12/27/2013
- Digital Spy
Death Comes To Pemberley: BBC One, 8.15pm
New series that serves as a sequel to Pride and Prejudice. The drama picks up six years on from the marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy, as the couple prepare for the lavish annual ball at their magnificent home. However, the unannounced arrival of Elizabeth's sister Lydia brings the event to an abrupt halt when she screams that her husband, Wickham, has been murdered.
Still Open All Hours: BBC One, 7.45pm
David Jason returns as Granville in this one-off special of Roy Clarke's popular comedy - although he is no longer the dogsbody, having inherited the business from his miserly uncle Albert Arkwright. He is not alone in running the shop, though. Thanks to a one-night stand in Blackpool 25 years ago Granville now has his own assistant in the shape of his son Leroy, who proves more popular with the ladies than his dad ever did.
New series that serves as a sequel to Pride and Prejudice. The drama picks up six years on from the marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy, as the couple prepare for the lavish annual ball at their magnificent home. However, the unannounced arrival of Elizabeth's sister Lydia brings the event to an abrupt halt when she screams that her husband, Wickham, has been murdered.
Still Open All Hours: BBC One, 7.45pm
David Jason returns as Granville in this one-off special of Roy Clarke's popular comedy - although he is no longer the dogsbody, having inherited the business from his miserly uncle Albert Arkwright. He is not alone in running the shop, though. Thanks to a one-night stand in Blackpool 25 years ago Granville now has his own assistant in the shape of his son Leroy, who proves more popular with the ladies than his dad ever did.
- 12/26/2013
- Digital Spy
Sir David Jason says filming the 'Open All Hours' Christmas special was ''emotional''. The iconic comedian has returned to his role as Granville in the show's first episode since 1985, and he admitted it was ''delightful'' to be back on the set. He told the Daily Express newspaper's Saturday Magazine: ''It was delightful working together again and also a little emotional returning to the old hunting ground. ''But once we got going, it was as if time had shrunk and only a couple of weeks had passed since we'd been there last. The shop, the street, even the props ... Nothing has changed.'' The...
- 12/21/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
God rest ye merry schedulers - your work is done for another year and now us lucky lot have a plethora of fantastic telly to enjoy over the Christmas and New Year period.
But if you're looking at your TV listings mags and finding it all a bit overwhelming, then don't panic... Digital Spy presents The 12 Picks of Christmas - a duodecuple of December (and early January) shows!
1. The Muppets and Lady Gaga at Christmas - Sunday, December 22 at 5.25pm on Channel 5
The festive telly season kicks off with Channel 5's flagship show for the holidays. Originally aired on ABC in the Us in November, this 75-minute special sees Gaga perform songs from her latest album Artpop and also features Elton John, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Kristen Bell, RuPaul and - of course - Kermit, Miss Piggy and co. Sounds utterly bonkers - so a perfect vehicle for Gaga then.
2. Call the Midwife - Christmas Day (Wednesday,...
But if you're looking at your TV listings mags and finding it all a bit overwhelming, then don't panic... Digital Spy presents The 12 Picks of Christmas - a duodecuple of December (and early January) shows!
1. The Muppets and Lady Gaga at Christmas - Sunday, December 22 at 5.25pm on Channel 5
The festive telly season kicks off with Channel 5's flagship show for the holidays. Originally aired on ABC in the Us in November, this 75-minute special sees Gaga perform songs from her latest album Artpop and also features Elton John, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Kristen Bell, RuPaul and - of course - Kermit, Miss Piggy and co. Sounds utterly bonkers - so a perfect vehicle for Gaga then.
2. Call the Midwife - Christmas Day (Wednesday,...
- 12/17/2013
- Digital Spy
Forget advent calendars, Coca-Cola ads and John Lewis's blooming hare and bear. The one true sign that Christmas is upon us is the arrival of the X Factor final. Someone pass us the eggnog!
Over two nights, viewers will decide this year's champion and whoever they pick from Nicholas McDonald, Sam Bailey or Luke Friend will most likely be this year's Christmas number one.
It hasn't been a vintage year for The X Factor, but we're sure ITV, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh are planning to pull out all the stops and some final twists to remind us why we come back year after year.
Stick with Digital Spy from 8pm when we'll be covering all the action live.
22:00So here are our X Factor Final 2. Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald. Hardly the most inspiring pair of singers, but heck, you voted for them.
21:58And we can't...
Over two nights, viewers will decide this year's champion and whoever they pick from Nicholas McDonald, Sam Bailey or Luke Friend will most likely be this year's Christmas number one.
It hasn't been a vintage year for The X Factor, but we're sure ITV, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh are planning to pull out all the stops and some final twists to remind us why we come back year after year.
Stick with Digital Spy from 8pm when we'll be covering all the action live.
22:00So here are our X Factor Final 2. Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald. Hardly the most inspiring pair of singers, but heck, you voted for them.
21:58And we can't...
- 12/14/2013
- Digital Spy
BBC
This Christmas we’re in for a real treat. On Boxing Day night the BBC are showing a brand new spin-off episode of Roy Clarke’s classic convenience shop comedy Open All Hours to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Several cast members – including Sir David Jason and Lynda Baron as Nurse Gladys Emmanuel – are reprising their roles from the original series for this Christmas special. The filming of this has also led to strong speculation Still Open All Hours will be given a full sequel series next year.
As delightful as that future prospect sounds, it got us wondering at WhatCulture about what made the original show so great and laugh out loud funny? Many younger viewers may not be aware of Ronnie Barker’s comic genius, but he starred both in Open All Hours as the money-grabbing Albert Arkwright and loveable lag Norman Stanley Fletcher in prison sitcom Porridge.
This Christmas we’re in for a real treat. On Boxing Day night the BBC are showing a brand new spin-off episode of Roy Clarke’s classic convenience shop comedy Open All Hours to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Several cast members – including Sir David Jason and Lynda Baron as Nurse Gladys Emmanuel – are reprising their roles from the original series for this Christmas special. The filming of this has also led to strong speculation Still Open All Hours will be given a full sequel series next year.
As delightful as that future prospect sounds, it got us wondering at WhatCulture about what made the original show so great and laugh out loud funny? Many younger viewers may not be aware of Ronnie Barker’s comic genius, but he starred both in Open All Hours as the money-grabbing Albert Arkwright and loveable lag Norman Stanley Fletcher in prison sitcom Porridge.
- 12/14/2013
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
BBC One has released new images from its festive offering Still Open All Hours.
The revival of classic sitcom Open All Hours - which aired on BBC Two between 1973 and 1985 - will see David Jason reprising his role of Granville.
In the new one-off special, viewers will meet an older Granville, who has inherited the grocer's shop from his late Uncle Arkwright, played by Ronnie Barker in the original show.
He now runs the business with his son Leroy (James Baxter), a cheerful and good-looking lad who attracts many female admirers.
Still Open All Hours - which will also star Lynda Barron and Stephanie Cole - has been written by original series creator Roy Clarke.
The comedy is scheduled for Boxing Day (Thursday, December 26) at 7.45pm on BBC One.
Sir David Jason to star in Open All Hours Christmas special
Catch up on all the latest TV and Movies releases...
The revival of classic sitcom Open All Hours - which aired on BBC Two between 1973 and 1985 - will see David Jason reprising his role of Granville.
In the new one-off special, viewers will meet an older Granville, who has inherited the grocer's shop from his late Uncle Arkwright, played by Ronnie Barker in the original show.
He now runs the business with his son Leroy (James Baxter), a cheerful and good-looking lad who attracts many female admirers.
Still Open All Hours - which will also star Lynda Barron and Stephanie Cole - has been written by original series creator Roy Clarke.
The comedy is scheduled for Boxing Day (Thursday, December 26) at 7.45pm on BBC One.
Sir David Jason to star in Open All Hours Christmas special
Catch up on all the latest TV and Movies releases...
- 12/7/2013
- Digital Spy
Picking what to watch at Christmas time can be a tricky challenge, so Digital Spy has created a quick handy guide to the biggest shows and movies airing across Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Check out the Christmas TV schedules for the big channels below:
BBC One
Christmas Eve:
EastEnders - 7.30pm
Holby City - 8pm
Last Tango In Halifax - 9pm
Not Going Out Christmas special - 10pm
Christmas Day:
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special - 5pm
Call The Midwife - 6.15pm
Doctor Who: 'The Time Of The Doctor' - 7.30pm
EastEnders - 8.30pm
Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas Special - 9.30pm
Boxing Day:
Gangsta Granny - 6.05pm
EastEnders - 7.15pm
Still Open All Hours - 7.45pm
Death Comes To Pemberley - 8.15pm
BBC Two
Christmas Eve:
Victoria Wood's Mid-Life Christmas - 8pm
Qi Xl Christmas Special - 9pm
The Awakening - 11.25pm
Christmas...
Check out the Christmas TV schedules for the big channels below:
BBC One
Christmas Eve:
EastEnders - 7.30pm
Holby City - 8pm
Last Tango In Halifax - 9pm
Not Going Out Christmas special - 10pm
Christmas Day:
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special - 5pm
Call The Midwife - 6.15pm
Doctor Who: 'The Time Of The Doctor' - 7.30pm
EastEnders - 8.30pm
Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas Special - 9.30pm
Boxing Day:
Gangsta Granny - 6.05pm
EastEnders - 7.15pm
Still Open All Hours - 7.45pm
Death Comes To Pemberley - 8.15pm
BBC Two
Christmas Eve:
Victoria Wood's Mid-Life Christmas - 8pm
Qi Xl Christmas Special - 9pm
The Awakening - 11.25pm
Christmas...
- 12/4/2013
- Digital Spy
BBC One has unveiled official details of its Christmas and New Year schedule for 2013/14.
The new listings include transmission times for the Sherlock series three premiere and Matt Smith's final episode of Doctor Who.
On Saturday, December 21, BBC One will air the Strictly Come Dancing final at 6.30pm, followed by the penultimate episode of fantasy drama Atlantis at 7.55pm.
Jonas Armstrong and Martin Sheen star in drama The Whale on Sunday, December 22 at 9pm, with series two of Last Tango in Halifax drawing to a close at 9pm on Christmas Eve.
Doctor Who's 'The Time of the Doctor' will air on Christmas Day from 7.30pm-8.30pm, preceded by Call the Midwife at 6.15pm and followed by the Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas Special at 9.30pm.
David Jason sitcom revival Still Open All Hours and the first part of period thriller Death Comes to Pemberley will hit BBC One on Boxing Day (Thursday,...
The new listings include transmission times for the Sherlock series three premiere and Matt Smith's final episode of Doctor Who.
On Saturday, December 21, BBC One will air the Strictly Come Dancing final at 6.30pm, followed by the penultimate episode of fantasy drama Atlantis at 7.55pm.
Jonas Armstrong and Martin Sheen star in drama The Whale on Sunday, December 22 at 9pm, with series two of Last Tango in Halifax drawing to a close at 9pm on Christmas Eve.
Doctor Who's 'The Time of the Doctor' will air on Christmas Day from 7.30pm-8.30pm, preceded by Call the Midwife at 6.15pm and followed by the Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas Special at 9.30pm.
David Jason sitcom revival Still Open All Hours and the first part of period thriller Death Comes to Pemberley will hit BBC One on Boxing Day (Thursday,...
- 12/3/2013
- Digital Spy
BBC Festive Treats 2013
The BBC have revealed some details about an exciting Christmas 2013 line-up that includes plenty of old favorites as well as one or two surprises. Hot on the heels of the record breaking 50th anniversary episode, Doctor Who (Matt Smith) returns in a new adventure titled The Time Of The Doctor in which he’ll pass the Timelord baton onto Peter Capaldi. Call The Midwife, and Last Tango in Halifax return with festive episodes while Danny Dyer debuts as the new landlord of the Queen Vic in Eastenders.
Elsewhere, kids are in for a treat with the debut of David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny while those who are longer in the tooth will welcome the return of David Jason in an Open All Hours special. There will be two new episodes of the new fantasy smash-hit Atlantis while Mark Gatiss returns to the BBC with an adaptation of Mr James’ The Tractate Middoth.
The BBC have revealed some details about an exciting Christmas 2013 line-up that includes plenty of old favorites as well as one or two surprises. Hot on the heels of the record breaking 50th anniversary episode, Doctor Who (Matt Smith) returns in a new adventure titled The Time Of The Doctor in which he’ll pass the Timelord baton onto Peter Capaldi. Call The Midwife, and Last Tango in Halifax return with festive episodes while Danny Dyer debuts as the new landlord of the Queen Vic in Eastenders.
Elsewhere, kids are in for a treat with the debut of David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny while those who are longer in the tooth will welcome the return of David Jason in an Open All Hours special. There will be two new episodes of the new fantasy smash-hit Atlantis while Mark Gatiss returns to the BBC with an adaptation of Mr James’ The Tractate Middoth.
- 11/27/2013
- by Edited by K Kinsella
BBC One has released a first-look image of David Jason reprising his Open All Hours role.
The 73-year-old will return to the role of Granville for Still Open All Hours, a revival of the classic sitcom which first aired on BBC Two between 1973 and 1985.
In the Christmas special, viewers will meet an older Granville, who has inherited the grocer's shop from his late Uncle Arkwright, originally played by Ronnie Barker.
He now runs the business with his son Leroy (James Baxter), a cheerful and good-looking lad who attracts many female admirers.
Still Open All Hours - which will also star Lynda Barron and Stephanie Cole - has been written by original series creator Roy Clarke.
"This has been fun - a great opportunity to work with David Jason again and to suggest how things at that corner shop might look today," said Clarke.
Other comedy highlights on BBC One this...
The 73-year-old will return to the role of Granville for Still Open All Hours, a revival of the classic sitcom which first aired on BBC Two between 1973 and 1985.
In the Christmas special, viewers will meet an older Granville, who has inherited the grocer's shop from his late Uncle Arkwright, originally played by Ronnie Barker.
He now runs the business with his son Leroy (James Baxter), a cheerful and good-looking lad who attracts many female admirers.
Still Open All Hours - which will also star Lynda Barron and Stephanie Cole - has been written by original series creator Roy Clarke.
"This has been fun - a great opportunity to work with David Jason again and to suggest how things at that corner shop might look today," said Clarke.
Other comedy highlights on BBC One this...
- 11/26/2013
- Digital Spy
BBC One has unveiled its programming highlights for the Christmas period.
The return of Sherlock, Matt Smith's farewell to Doctor Who and the arrival of Danny Dyer in EastEnders are among the most notable pieces of festive scheduling.
BBC's director of television Danny Cohen said: "Brilliant Christmas telly across drama, factual, comedy, entertainment and religion is something licence-fee payers rightly expect from the BBC, and this year's holiday schedule delivers that.
"We have massive events such as the Doctor Who regeneration and the incredible return of Sherlock, as well as festive specials from hit shows including Strictly Come Dancing, Mrs Brown's Boys, Call the Midwife, Bad Education, and The Great British Bake Off.
"And of course there are brand new treats such as David Walliams' Gangsta Granny and we'll be showing a wide range of religious programming, including a live broadcast of The First Eucharist of Christmas from Westminster Abbey.
The return of Sherlock, Matt Smith's farewell to Doctor Who and the arrival of Danny Dyer in EastEnders are among the most notable pieces of festive scheduling.
BBC's director of television Danny Cohen said: "Brilliant Christmas telly across drama, factual, comedy, entertainment and religion is something licence-fee payers rightly expect from the BBC, and this year's holiday schedule delivers that.
"We have massive events such as the Doctor Who regeneration and the incredible return of Sherlock, as well as festive specials from hit shows including Strictly Come Dancing, Mrs Brown's Boys, Call the Midwife, Bad Education, and The Great British Bake Off.
"And of course there are brand new treats such as David Walliams' Gangsta Granny and we'll be showing a wide range of religious programming, including a live broadcast of The First Eucharist of Christmas from Westminster Abbey.
- 11/26/2013
- Digital Spy
'Open All Hours' is set to return with a new series. Sir David Jason will reprise his role as Granville after bosses were impressed with the one-off Christmas special, 'Still Open All Hours', and although producer Gareth Edwards has remained tight-lipped about details of the plot, he revealed the humour won't fall short of viewers' expectations. Gareth told The Sun newspaper: ''I can't say too much about the plot, but it does involve anchovy paste - that's all I'm saying!'' Fans gathered to watch David and other cast members including Lynda Baron, who plays nurse Gladys Emmanuel, Stephanie Cole as the Black Widow...
- 11/25/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
From the Nutcracker to American Psycho, from Mary Poppins to Kurt Vile, our critics pick their must-sees of the festive season
If you wish it could be Christmas every day
Nutcrackers, various
You know it's Christmas in the ballet world by the number of Nutcrackers touring the world's stages. In the UK alone, there are close to a dozen doing the rounds, but the top three remain the Royal Ballet's exquisitely traditional version, the sparky family friendly production by Birmingham Royal Ballet, and English National Ballet's – with the best snow scene of them all. Royal Opera House, London (020-7304 4000), 4 December to 16 January; Birmingham Hippodrome (0844 338 5000), to 12 December; London Coliseum (020-7845 9300), 11 December to 5 January.
Father Christmas
Does Father Christmas use the loo? Does he secretly long for summer? Does he have strong views on the size of chimneys? You bet he does. Raymond Briggs's gorgeous picture book gets a heartwarming makeover for under-sixes.
If you wish it could be Christmas every day
Nutcrackers, various
You know it's Christmas in the ballet world by the number of Nutcrackers touring the world's stages. In the UK alone, there are close to a dozen doing the rounds, but the top three remain the Royal Ballet's exquisitely traditional version, the sparky family friendly production by Birmingham Royal Ballet, and English National Ballet's – with the best snow scene of them all. Royal Opera House, London (020-7304 4000), 4 December to 16 January; Birmingham Hippodrome (0844 338 5000), to 12 December; London Coliseum (020-7845 9300), 11 December to 5 January.
Father Christmas
Does Father Christmas use the loo? Does he secretly long for summer? Does he have strong views on the size of chimneys? You bet he does. Raymond Briggs's gorgeous picture book gets a heartwarming makeover for under-sixes.
- 11/25/2013
- by Lyn Gardner, Michael Billington, Andrew Clements, Alexis Petridis, Judith Mackrell, John Fordham, Brian Logan, Stuart Heritage, Mark Lawson, Jonathan Jones
- The Guardian - Film News
Sir David Jason had always wondered what happened to his 'Open All Hours' character. The 73-year-old actor is reprising his role as Granville for the first time since 1985 in a one-off Christmas special, 'Still Open All Hours', and says the idea for the show - which is penned by original writer Roy Clarke - came from an ''innocent'' remark in a meeting. David - who starred with the late Ronnie Barker in the original series - explained: ''It all came about from a very innocent meeting with the BBC's Head of Comedy. ''I just happened to say, 'Whatever happened to Granville?'...
- 11/20/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Open All Hours has begun filming its one-off Christmas special.
BBC One has tweeted a photo from the set of the classic sitcom, which returns for a 30-minute episode titled Still Open All Hours on Christmas Day.
It's the first day of filming on our #OpenAllHours Christmas special, Still Open All Hours: pic.twitter.com/Bf4PY29KuD
— BBC One (@BBCOne) November 18, 2013
The iconic Arkwright store can be seen in the on-set photo, which was unveiled earlier today (November 18).
Sir David Jason will reprise his role of Granville in the festive special, while Lynda Baron and Maggie Ollerenshaw will also return as nurse Gladys Emmanuel and Mavis.
Granville will be seen running the grocery store with his son, having inherited it from his uncle Albert Arkwright (Ronnie Barker).
"I'm really excited to be bringing back Open All Hours," Jason recently said. "I am sure there is an audience out...
BBC One has tweeted a photo from the set of the classic sitcom, which returns for a 30-minute episode titled Still Open All Hours on Christmas Day.
It's the first day of filming on our #OpenAllHours Christmas special, Still Open All Hours: pic.twitter.com/Bf4PY29KuD
— BBC One (@BBCOne) November 18, 2013
The iconic Arkwright store can be seen in the on-set photo, which was unveiled earlier today (November 18).
Sir David Jason will reprise his role of Granville in the festive special, while Lynda Baron and Maggie Ollerenshaw will also return as nurse Gladys Emmanuel and Mavis.
Granville will be seen running the grocery store with his son, having inherited it from his uncle Albert Arkwright (Ronnie Barker).
"I'm really excited to be bringing back Open All Hours," Jason recently said. "I am sure there is an audience out...
- 11/18/2013
- Digital Spy
The Britain's Got Talent judge says she was attacked by an unnamed comic, 21st-century comics grapple with homosexuality, and David Brent realises his rock-god dreams
Not much to laugh about in today's top story, as Amanda Holden writes in her autobiography that she was once assaulted by "a famous comedian". The Britain's Got Talent judge claims she was cornered by the unnamed comic at a public event, during a period when she was patching up her marriage to Les Dennis after an affair with Men Behaving Badly star Neil Morrissey. "[Dennis and I] went to an event together," Holden writes, "and on my way back from the loo, I was cornered by a famous comedian, who tried to kiss me and put his hands in places they shouldn't have been. I was scared and tried to push him away … but he wasn't put off … My body went limp, and I just stood there...
Not much to laugh about in today's top story, as Amanda Holden writes in her autobiography that she was once assaulted by "a famous comedian". The Britain's Got Talent judge claims she was cornered by the unnamed comic at a public event, during a period when she was patching up her marriage to Les Dennis after an affair with Men Behaving Badly star Neil Morrissey. "[Dennis and I] went to an event together," Holden writes, "and on my way back from the loo, I was cornered by a famous comedian, who tried to kiss me and put his hands in places they shouldn't have been. I was scared and tried to push him away … but he wasn't put off … My body went limp, and I just stood there...
- 10/15/2013
- by Brian Logan
- The Guardian - Film News
Comedy legend David Jason returns to one of his key roles, Granville from Open All Hours, in a one-off special this Christmas.
Jason also of course played Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses, Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost and many more.
Today he releases his long-awaited autobiography My Life, and in the video above teases some anecdotes about his most famous roles.
David Jason: My Life is on sale now.
Jason also of course played Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses, Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost and many more.
Today he releases his long-awaited autobiography My Life, and in the video above teases some anecdotes about his most famous roles.
David Jason: My Life is on sale now.
- 10/10/2013
- Digital Spy
The Us comedian slams Two and a Half Men's Chuck Lorre for nabbing her gags, Jennifer Saunders slags off the BBC and Johnny Vegas interviews himself
This week's comedy news
It's a powderkeg issue in the world of comedy – and Roseanne Barr has gone off like a rocket this week, accusing Two and a Half Men creator Chuck Lorre of thieving jokes. On Friday, Barr used Twitter (what else?) to berate Lorre and the show's star, Ashton Kutcher, who cracked a gag on the show similar to one Barr performed in 2006. The joke is about old age and the menopause: "I'd imagine that you're wet in the places you used to be dry," said Kutcher's character, "and dry in the places you used to be wet." This prompted a volley of online abuse from Barr. "Comics," began one: "Begin Watching Chuck Lorre'S Shows 2 See If He Steals Your...
This week's comedy news
It's a powderkeg issue in the world of comedy – and Roseanne Barr has gone off like a rocket this week, accusing Two and a Half Men creator Chuck Lorre of thieving jokes. On Friday, Barr used Twitter (what else?) to berate Lorre and the show's star, Ashton Kutcher, who cracked a gag on the show similar to one Barr performed in 2006. The joke is about old age and the menopause: "I'd imagine that you're wet in the places you used to be dry," said Kutcher's character, "and dry in the places you used to be wet." This prompted a volley of online abuse from Barr. "Comics," began one: "Begin Watching Chuck Lorre'S Shows 2 See If He Steals Your...
- 10/8/2013
- by Brian Logan
- The Guardian - Film News
Sir David Jason is to star in an 'Open All Hours' Christmas special. The 'Only Fools and Horses' actor will reprise his role of Granville in the BBC One sitcom - which originally ran from 1973 to 1985 - and will see David's alter-ego, along with his character's son, run the back-water grocery store he has since inherited from Albert Arkwright, who was played by the late Ronnie Barker. The show's original writer Roy Clarke will return to pen the 30-minute festive episode, which will be called 'Still Open All Hours', and Lynda Baron and Maggie Ollerenshaw will also return as...
- 10/7/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Sir David Jason will reprise his role of Granville for an Open All Hours Christmas special.
Lynda Baron and Maggie Ollerenshaw will also return as nurse Gladys Emmanuel and Mavis in the 30-minute one-off episode Still Open All Hours.
"I'm really excited to be bringing back Open All Hours," said Jason. "I am sure there is an audience out there who would like to see what Granville has been getting up to in the corner shop.
"It will be a great family show for Christmas, and a fitting tribute to the legacy of Arkwright."
Granville will be seen running the grocery store with his son, having inherited it from his uncle Albert Arkwright (Ronnie Barker).
Roy Clarke, who wrote the original series, will return for Still Open All Hours.
"This has been fun - a great opportunity to work with David Jason again and to suggest how things at that corner shop might look today,...
Lynda Baron and Maggie Ollerenshaw will also return as nurse Gladys Emmanuel and Mavis in the 30-minute one-off episode Still Open All Hours.
"I'm really excited to be bringing back Open All Hours," said Jason. "I am sure there is an audience out there who would like to see what Granville has been getting up to in the corner shop.
"It will be a great family show for Christmas, and a fitting tribute to the legacy of Arkwright."
Granville will be seen running the grocery store with his son, having inherited it from his uncle Albert Arkwright (Ronnie Barker).
Roy Clarke, who wrote the original series, will return for Still Open All Hours.
"This has been fun - a great opportunity to work with David Jason again and to suggest how things at that corner shop might look today,...
- 10/7/2013
- Digital Spy
Sir David Jason is to star in an 'Open All Hours' Christmas special. The 'Only Fools and Horses' actor will reprise his role of Granville in the BBC One sitcom - which originally ran from 1973 to 1985 - and will see David's alter-ego, along with his character's son, run the back-water grocery store he has since inherited from Albert Arkwright, who was played by the late Ronnie Barker. The show's original writer Roy Clarke will return to pen the 30-minute festive episode, which will be called 'Still Open All Hours', and Lynda Baron and Maggie Ollerenshaw will also return as...
- 10/4/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Tube Talk Gold has looked back at many classic sitcoms, but there aren't many shows that can truly hold the mantle of 'Gold', and this month's edition focuses on a truly British institution, featuring some of the UK's most favourite characters, catchphrases and moments for over 20 years.
After a near-miss Us remake starring John 'Luigi from Super Mario Bros' Leguizamo, the legacy of Only Fools and Horses can carry on untarnished.
Only Fools and Horses - Originally broadcast from September 8, 1981 to February 3, 1991 and Christmas specials from 1991 to 2003.
John Sullivan had already created the successful sitcom Citizen Smith for the BBC when he was commissioned to write a new series. Influenced by the popularity of ITV's Minder, he came up with an idea of a cockney market trader in modern-day London. Using a strange old American saying for its title, he wrote a series that would go on to become possibly the UK's best-loved comedy.
After a near-miss Us remake starring John 'Luigi from Super Mario Bros' Leguizamo, the legacy of Only Fools and Horses can carry on untarnished.
Only Fools and Horses - Originally broadcast from September 8, 1981 to February 3, 1991 and Christmas specials from 1991 to 2003.
John Sullivan had already created the successful sitcom Citizen Smith for the BBC when he was commissioned to write a new series. Influenced by the popularity of ITV's Minder, he came up with an idea of a cockney market trader in modern-day London. Using a strange old American saying for its title, he wrote a series that would go on to become possibly the UK's best-loved comedy.
- 3/2/2013
- Digital Spy
As cult comics speak to us from beyond the grave, Julian Clary and Airplane display their enduring popularity
Best of this week's news
Cult comics speak to us from beyond the grave this week, as Film Four announce a new film loosely based on the life and career of Chris Sievey and his alter ego Frank Sidebottom. Sidebottom was the large-headed wannabe pop star who became an unlikely phenomenon in the 1980s – which isn't exactly typecasting for the X-Men and Prometheus star Michael Fassbender, who's slated to play him. The movie is by screenwriter Peter Straughan and writer Jon Ronson, who has tweeted to deny that the film is explicitly about Sievey/Sidebottom.
No such coyness from the wife of Peter Cook, who has released 40 hours of unreleased material by her husband to mark the relaunch of The Establishment club (see last week's Laughing Stock) in Soho. Says record label boss Mike O'Brien,...
Best of this week's news
Cult comics speak to us from beyond the grave this week, as Film Four announce a new film loosely based on the life and career of Chris Sievey and his alter ego Frank Sidebottom. Sidebottom was the large-headed wannabe pop star who became an unlikely phenomenon in the 1980s – which isn't exactly typecasting for the X-Men and Prometheus star Michael Fassbender, who's slated to play him. The movie is by screenwriter Peter Straughan and writer Jon Ronson, who has tweeted to deny that the film is explicitly about Sievey/Sidebottom.
No such coyness from the wife of Peter Cook, who has released 40 hours of unreleased material by her husband to mark the relaunch of The Establishment club (see last week's Laughing Stock) in Soho. Says record label boss Mike O'Brien,...
- 9/11/2012
- by Brian Logan
- The Guardian - Film News
Remember those obscure TV shows you used to watch when you were really little? No, me either. I mean we can remember bits and pieces of them, the occasional character name perhaps, or a catchy theme tune that for some reason has remained somewhere within the dark recesses of your brain all these years, but you probably never took the time out to research the show as an adult that you so adored as a child.
Thanks to the dawn of the Internet era, with websites such as IMDb, we have the tools at our disposal to answer the questions, “Oh, what have I seen him in?” Or, in this case, “Damn, what was that show called again..?”
Thankfully, What Culture has you covered, and here’s five we think you’ll remember.
5. Come Outside
This BBC Children’s Educational Series ran from 1993 until 1997 and featured Lynda Baron (Open All Hours...
Thanks to the dawn of the Internet era, with websites such as IMDb, we have the tools at our disposal to answer the questions, “Oh, what have I seen him in?” Or, in this case, “Damn, what was that show called again..?”
Thankfully, What Culture has you covered, and here’s five we think you’ll remember.
5. Come Outside
This BBC Children’s Educational Series ran from 1993 until 1997 and featured Lynda Baron (Open All Hours...
- 8/24/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
BBC Four has announced an all-star cast for its Coronation Street 'origins' drama. EastEnders returnee Jessie Wallace takes on the role of Pat Phoenix, who became tart-with-a-heart Elsie Tanner, while Open All Hours star Lynda Baron will play Violet Carson, who landed the role of harridan-in-a-hairnet Ena Sharples. Renowned actress Celia Imrie, meanwhile, has signed to appear as Annie Walker performer Doris Speed and William Roache's real-life son James will portray a younger version of his father. The one-off drama is to tell the story of how ITV soap Coronation Street was born and how the show's creator Tony Warren - a younger version of whom will be played by David Dawson - brought Salford to life on television screens around the world. Then-Granada casting director Margaret Morris will be portrayed by Jane Horrocks, and (more)...
- 6/28/2010
- by By Kris Green
- Digital Spy
Sir David Jason has revealed that he is not ready for retirement following the end of A Touch Of Frost. The actor, 70, chose to stand down from the much-loved role that he played for 17 years when his age made it impossible for him to credibly play a working policeman. Sir David, whose TV credits include Open All Hours, Only Fools And Horses, The Darling Buds Of May and Porterhouse Blue, said that leaving the ITV detective show was incredibly tough. "Sadly, myself and the other producers agreed it was time for (more)...
- 3/28/2010
- by By Sarah Rollo
- Digital Spy
British TV Star Staff Dies
Beloved British TV star Kathy Staff has died at the age of 80.
The actress passed away last week after a lengthy illness, according to BBC producer Alan Bell.
Staff made a name for herself playing fearsome female characters in popular U.K. TV shows including Open All Hours and Crossroads.
Her most famous role was as Nora Batty in long-running BBC sitcom Last Of The Summer Wine, appearing in 243 episodes over a 25 year period.
Staff filmed her last episode of the show in August.
The actress passed away last week after a lengthy illness, according to BBC producer Alan Bell.
Staff made a name for herself playing fearsome female characters in popular U.K. TV shows including Open All Hours and Crossroads.
Her most famous role was as Nora Batty in long-running BBC sitcom Last Of The Summer Wine, appearing in 243 episodes over a 25 year period.
Staff filmed her last episode of the show in August.
- 12/14/2008
- WENN
Open All Hours actress Lynda Baron is to reprise her Walford role as Linda Collins later this year. The 66-year-old, who played Nurse Gladys Emanuel in the BBC comedy, has already returned to filming as Jane Beale's (Laurie Brett) and Christian Clarke's (John Partridge) mother for a storyline which will reveal more about the family's history. A source told Inside Soap: "We're very excited (more)...
- 9/9/2008
- by By Kris Green
- Digital Spy
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