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This opportunity has now closed

We’re partnering with Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio 4 on a new comedy development opportunity for UK-based independent producers. We want to find more accessible, funny shows like Ghosts, Two Doors Down, Here We Go, Motherland and Black Ops that can be enjoyed by a wide audience and have the potential to be the next big comedy hit.

We’re initially aiming to commission around five or six audio scripts before we move into any TV-focused development. We’ll progress each audio script in different ways depending on the idea, such as further script commissions or an audio pilot or series.

We’re keen on big, funny shows which audiences can’t help but binge with their flatmates, families and (silent but often discerning) pets. We want to hear ideas for shows that feature a range of characters and go to the greatest lengths to make us laugh.

Some things to think about:

1. We’re interested in ensemble shows that don’t rely on one central character, as well as shows which do.
2. Originality of premise is less important than characters.
3. As this will develop through the audio route, the core cast shouldn’t be more than six main characters.
4. Workplace sitcoms can work in this space, even if the workplace is ‘hidden’. For example, Motherland is in some respects a workplace comedy.
5. We don’t do many studio (audience) sitcoms, but that’s not to say we wouldn’t.
6. Diversity in cast and portrayal is key - we’re not as interested in shows set in a middle-class London milieu.
7. Performers – tell us who could play these parts.

Process and key dates

The initial deadline for ideas was 20 September 2023.

Submissions to this brief will be reviewed by Julia McKenzie in Radio 4 and Ben Caudell and Navi Lamba in TV Comedy Commissioning.