http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/magazine/graphics/logo.png http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/trotters-to-return-in-only-fools-and-horses-prequel/5003174.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/trotters-to-return-in-only-fools-and-horses-prequel/5003174.article Del Boy’s coming back to BBC1 – but as a teenager. Fri, 3 Jul 2009 13:52 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc-to-resurrect-just-william/5003170.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc-to-resurrect-just-william/5003170.article Just William is to return to the BBC for the third time, in a new adaptation by Men Behaving Badly writer Simon Nye. Fri, 3 Jul 2009 13:47 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/citv-signs-britvic-afp-deal/5003132.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/citv-signs-britvic-afp-deal/5003132.article CITV has ordered a new magazine show sponsored by Britvic and produced by RDF’s The Foundation. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:54 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/itv/citv-bucks-trend-to-grow-budget/5003131.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/itv/citv-bucks-trend-to-grow-budget/5003131.article CITV will be the only ITV channel to increase its budget next year – but it will not necessarily spend the additional money on original commissions. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:29 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/ctvc-investigates-late-motherhood-for-bbc1/5003049.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/ctvc-investigates-late-motherhood-for-bbc1/5003049.article Religious and ethical indie CTVC is to meet the oldest women to give birth in a documentary for BBC1. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/bravo-seeks-to-go-beyond-bloke-tv-content/5003050.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/bravo-seeks-to-go-beyond-bloke-tv-content/5003050.article Bravo is looking for more factual entertainment and humour after controller Dave Clarke admitted that he “played it safe” by commissioning for the “blokier” end of his audience last year. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/cbbc-commissions-cinderella-sitcom-and-kids-dragons-den/5003081.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/cbbc-commissions-cinderella-sitcom-and-kids-dragons-den/5003081.article CBBC has ordered a major sitcom about a modern-day Cinderella and a Dragon’s Den-style series in which children will compete to come up with inventions that could change the world. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/restoration-and-rip-offs-land-bbc-daytime-orders/5003082.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/restoration-and-rip-offs-land-bbc-daytime-orders/5003082.article The BBC is bolstering its daytime output with a “daytime Watchdog” and a 20 x 30-minute antiques show on repairing damaged goods. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc4-drama-to-chart-1980s-computer-battle/5002980.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc4-drama-to-chart-1980s-computer-battle/5002980.article The 1980s battle between the ZX Spectrum and the BBC Micro will be played out in a BBC4 comedy drama starring Martin Freeman and Alexander Armstrong. Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:09 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/dave-plans-first-live-broadcast/5002959.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/dave-plans-first-live-broadcast/5002959.article UKTV channel Dave will broadcast live for the first time for the climax of the second series of the Red Bull X-Fighters motorcross world tour. Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:45 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/still-not-the-last-of-last-of-the-summer-wine/5002935.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/still-not-the-last-of-last-of-the-summer-wine/5002935.article The BBC has recommissioned the world’s longest running sitcom, Last of the Summer Wine, for a 31st series -countering widespread rumours the show was about to be axed. Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:49 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/finance/indies-battle-for-espn-premiership-contract/5002841.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/finance/indies-battle-for-espn-premiership-contract/5002841.article North One, Sunset + Vine and TWI are set to vie for the contract to produce ESPN’s Premier League coverage, but they could come up against Sky’s production teams. Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:07 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/meet-the-natives-to-get-amish-twist/5002839.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/meet-the-natives-to-get-amish-twist/5002839.article Keo Films is to bring Amish youths to Britain in a follow-up to Channel 4’s “reverse anthropology” series, Meet the Natives. Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:05 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/armstrong-to-present-pointless-daytime-quiz/5002834.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/armstrong-to-present-pointless-daytime-quiz/5002834.article Comedian Alexander Armstrong is to present a BBC2 daytime quiz that puts a twist on the Family Fortunes formula of polling the public. Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:01 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/c4-is-committed-to-docs-but-price-worries-remain/5002836.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/c4-is-committed-to-docs-but-price-worries-remain/5002836.article Channel 4 has committed to making another 40 editions of Dispatches and 30 of Cutting Edge in 2010, but factual producers still fear the effects of the channel’s cost-cutting. Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-goes-around-the-world-with-xm25-scheme/5002837.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-goes-around-the-world-with-xm25-scheme/5002837.article Former Touch Productions execs Nick Watts and Joseph Maxwell have teamed up with Nasa for the first project from their new company, Burning Blue Media. Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc-plans-pop-up-restaurant-show/5002765.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc-plans-pop-up-restaurant-show/5002765.article BBC2 is piloting a primetime reality format based on “pop-up restaurants” – the second of its type to hit the headlines in as many months. Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:47 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/itv1-orders-more-lewis/5002761.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/itv1-orders-more-lewis/5002761.article Kevin Whately and Laurence Fox are set to return for a fourth series of ITV1 murder mystery drama Lewis. Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:15 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/bbc1-to-animate-gruffalo/5002723.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/bbc1-to-animate-gruffalo/5002723.article BBC1’s is planning an animated version of the bestselling children’s book The Gruffalo as the centrepiece of its Christmas schedule. Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:54 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/blakeway-wins-nobel-commissions/5002681.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/blakeway-wins-nobel-commissions/5002681.article Blakeway Productions has won a double commission for two shows on this year’s Nobel Prize awards. Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:12 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/bbc-comedy-chief-quits-for-sky/5002690.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/bbc-comedy-chief-quits-for-sky/5002690.article The BBC’s comedy chief Lucy Lumsden is leaving the corporation after 11 years to join Sky. Fri, 19 Jun 2009 10:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/indies/talkback-unveils-scottish-unit-with-hole-in-the-wall-order/5002668.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/indies/talkback-unveils-scottish-unit-with-hole-in-the-wall-order/5002668.article Talkback Thames is to open a new production base in Glasgow, headed by BBC Scotland’s former creative director of arts and factual entertainment May Miller, and has bagged a second run of BBC1’s Hole in the Wall as its first commission. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/celebrity-life-share-leads-itv2s-autumn-schedule/5002616.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/celebrity-life-share-leads-itv2s-autumn-schedule/5002616.article Actress Scarlett Johansson will invite Fearne Cotton to experience her Hollywood lifestyle in a shadow-a-celebrity series for ITV2 this autumn. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:57 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/c4-sends-producer-wild-for-sole-survivor-doc/5002632.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/c4-sends-producer-wild-for-sole-survivor-doc/5002632.article Channel 4 will cross a frontier in survival programming by dropping a TV producer into the Canadian wilderness for 12 weeks with just a camera and a backpack. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:52 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/living-goes-around-britain-with-hasselhoff/5002612.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/living-goes-around-britain-with-hasselhoff/5002612.article David Hasselhoff will sleep in a haunted castle, row with the Oxford blues and sail a long boat down the canals of Britain in six-part special for Living. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:46 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/cbeebies-dishes-up-food-series-targeted-at-tots/5002618.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/cbeebies-dishes-up-food-series-targeted-at-tots/5002618.article The BBC is to teach preschoolers how to cook and where their food comes from, in a new CBeebies cookery show. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:45 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-asks-again-who-do-you-think-you-are/5002469.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-asks-again-who-do-you-think-you-are/5002469.article Sex and the City star Kim Cattrall, Big Brother presenter Davina McCall and Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles are to all feature in the new run of BBC1’s genealogy series Who Do You Think You Are? Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:35 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/disney-bites-back/5002429.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/disney-bites-back/5002429.article Disney Channel UK has recommissioned Prism Entertainment to make a second series of its Life Bites short-form series. Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/international/whizz-kid-wins-abc-order-for-celebrity-dance-show/5002375.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/international/whizz-kid-wins-abc-order-for-celebrity-dance-show/5002375.article Whizz Kid Entertainment is remaking its Comic Relief celebrity dance format Let’s Dance for America’s ABC1 as a primetime show. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:43 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-debut-for-nigel-slater-with-simple-cooking/5002371.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-debut-for-nigel-slater-with-simple-cooking/5002371.article Nigel Slater is to move from BBC2 to BBC1 for a primetime show about “achievable” cooking. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:12 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/lumsden-on-lookout-for-agile-comedy-series/5002374.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/lumsden-on-lookout-for-agile-comedy-series/5002374.article BBC controller of comedy commissioning Lucy Lumsden has asked indies to tender “nimble” series that could be shifted to pre-watershed slots if they are successful. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:12 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/cbbc-focuses-on-science-with-double-order/5002363.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/cbbc-focuses-on-science-with-double-order/5002363.article CBBC has ordered a guide to “holidaying in space” and a second run of Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab - both to tie in with the BBC’s 2010 year of science. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:12 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/lime-moves-into-docs-with-beach-boy-co-pro-film/5002359.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/lime-moves-into-docs-with-beach-boy-co-pro-film/5002359.article Hollyoaks producer Lime Pictures is venturing into arts programming with a BBC4 profile of Beach Boys drummer Dennis Wilson. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/sergeant-goes-on-the-rails-in-india-for-bbc4/5002360.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/sergeant-goes-on-the-rails-in-india-for-bbc4/5002360.article Strictly Come Dancing star John Sergeant is to travel to India in the latest in a string of BBC documentaries about railways. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/tigress-to-make-all-four-docs-for-nature-shock-run/5002361.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/tigress-to-make-all-four-docs-for-nature-shock-run/5002361.article Tigress Productions is to make all four films of Five’s latest series of its Nature Shock doc strand. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/indies/ctvc-asks-indies-to-pitch-for-200k-social-issues-soap/5002362.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/indies/ctvc-asks-indies-to-pitch-for-200k-social-issues-soap/5002362.article Religious and ethical indie CTVC is inviting three indies to pitch for an online soap opera that aims to tackle big social and moral issues. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/international/ullman-show-wins-third-run/5002355.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/international/ullman-show-wins-third-run/5002355.article Tracey Ullman’s State of the Union, produced by Allan McKeown Presents… has been commissioned for a third series by US cable channel Showtime. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:10 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/sky-1-to-bolster-sports-with-panel-show-duo/5002381.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/sky-1-to-bolster-sports-with-panel-show-duo/5002381.article Sky 1 is to kick off a sports entertainment drive with two panelshow pilots, a search-for-a-star format featuring José Mourinho and a second series with Wayne Rooney. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 07:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/renegades-redecorating-couples-ordered-by-bbc3/5002364.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/renegades-redecorating-couples-ordered-by-bbc3/5002364.article Renegade Pictures is to apply its Don’t Tell The Bride format to interior decoration in a 6 x 60-minute series for BBC3. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 07:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc2-gives-greenlight-to-bwark-ad-agency-sitcom/5002357.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc2-gives-greenlight-to-bwark-ad-agency-sitcom/5002357.article The Inbetweeners producer Bwark has had the greenlight from BBC2 for a full series of its pilot comedy, The Scum Also Rises. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 07:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/bbc-boosts-scottish-production/5002328.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/bbc-boosts-scottish-production/5002328.article The BBC is on track to meet its Scottish production targets - boosted by three Scottish network comedies including the return of Rab C Nesbitt and a BBC4 Scottish season featuring The Thick of It’s Peter Capaldi. Wed, 10 Jun 2009 10:08 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/zig-zag-wins-triple-shock-doc-order/5002288.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/zig-zag-wins-triple-shock-doc-order/5002288.article A teenager who cries blood from her eyes features in one of a trio of shock doc commissions Zig Zag Productions has won from C4. Tue, 9 Jun 2009 10:46 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/people/nesbitt-drama-funding-crisis-is-killing-roles/5002282.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/people/nesbitt-drama-funding-crisis-is-killing-roles/5002282.article James Nesbitt is being forced to look for Hollywood acting roles because of the funding crisis in British drama. Tue, 9 Jun 2009 09:25 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/sky-1-adds-twist-for-are-you-smarter/5002241.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/sky-1-adds-twist-for-are-you-smarter/5002241.article Sky 1 is revamping its kids-vs-adults quiz by asking mums and dads Are You Smarter Than Your 10-Year-Old? Mon, 8 Jun 2009 11:25 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/fincham-to-chair-broadcast-entertainment-forum/5002213.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/fincham-to-chair-broadcast-entertainment-forum/5002213.article ITV director of television Peter Fincham is to chair Broadcast’s TV Entertainment Forum in September, which will kick off with a keynote from Britain’s Got Talent judge Piers Morgan. Fri, 5 Jun 2009 11:59 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc-lands-the-best-job-in-the-world/5002211.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc-lands-the-best-job-in-the-world/5002211.article BBC1 has ordered a doc on the search for a caretaker for an Australian tropical island - widely billed as “the best job in the world”. Fri, 5 Jun 2009 11:55 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-to-follow-stay-at-home-brits/5002185.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-to-follow-stay-at-home-brits/5002185.article BBC1 will investigate how the recession will prompt millions of Brits to stay at home this summer in a series from Crackit Productions. Fri, 5 Jun 2009 08:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/c4-tells-disabled-people-how-to-look-good-naked/5002114.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/c4-tells-disabled-people-how-to-look-good-naked/5002114.article Channel 4 has ordered a three-part run of How to Look Good Naked featuring people with disabilities. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 09:23 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/bbc-goes-for-gold-in-worst-teams-olympics-spoof/5002106.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/bbc-goes-for-gold-in-worst-teams-olympics-spoof/5002106.article The BBC is lining up a mockumentary about the 2012 Olympic Games from the writers of The Worst Week of My Life. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 09:22 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/jack-the-ripper-heads-fives-revealed-strand/5002109.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/jack-the-ripper-heads-fives-revealed-strand/5002109.article Former Sun editor Kelvin MacKenzie will investigate the relationship between Jack the Ripper and the press in one of six films for Five’s Revealed strand. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 09:22 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/cbeebies-quick-to-reorder-waybuloo/5002108.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/cbeebies-quick-to-reorder-waybuloo/5002108.article CBeebies has commissioned RDF Media Group subsidiary The Foundation to produce 50 more episodes of Waybuloo just weeks after the first 100 shows began airing. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 09:21 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-hunts-pop-factual-docs-with-youth-appeal/5002149.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-hunts-pop-factual-docs-with-youth-appeal/5002149.article BBC1 controller Jay Hunt is looking for 10.35pm documentaries and popular factual series that will help skew the channel towards younger viewers. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:45 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/bbc1-mobilises-land-girls-for-daytime-drama-push/5002142.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/bbc1-mobilises-land-girls-for-daytime-drama-push/5002142.article BBC1 is stepping up its daytime drama push with a major period series about four women working in the Women’s Land Army during the Second World War. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:40 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/portillo-takes-trains-back-in-time-for-bbc2-daytime/5002111.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/portillo-takes-trains-back-in-time-for-bbc2-daytime/5002111.article Former Tory cabinet minister Michael Portillo will embark on a series of epic British rail journeys as part of a stripped daytime series for BBC2. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:35 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/c4-pilots-come-dine-with-me-follow-up/5002105.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/c4-pilots-come-dine-with-me-follow-up/5002105.article Channel 4 is lining up a new cookery format from ITV Studios, the producer of global smash Come Dine with Me. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:31 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/trevor-eve-to-star-in-bbc1-version-of-kids-bestseller/5002153.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/trevor-eve-to-star-in-bbc1-version-of-kids-bestseller/5002153.article BBC1 is to turn Frank Cottrell Boyce’s bestselling children’s book, Framed, into a family show starring Trevor Eve. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:16 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/alan-titchmarsh-springs-into-itv1-seasonal-show/5002145.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/alan-titchmarsh-springs-into-itv1-seasonal-show/5002145.article Alan Titchmarsh is to front an ITV1 series on the seasons and climate change for ITV1. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:08 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/renovation-renovation-renovation-on-c4/5002110.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/renovation-renovation-renovation-on-c4/5002110.article Property Ladder creator John Silver and host Sarah Beeny are joining forces again for a Channel 4 series that will renovate homes beset by serious problems such as subsidence or pests. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 08:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-revives-spirit-of-tomorrows-world/5002092.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-revives-spirit-of-tomorrows-world/5002092.article BBC1 is to reinvent the Tomorrow’s World format with new science series Bang Goes the Theory. Wed, 3 Jun 2009 11:37 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/primates-to-funk-up-cbeebies/5002086.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/broadcasters/primates-to-funk-up-cbeebies/5002086.article CBeebies controller Michael Carrington is to “funk up the channel” with a major new 52 x 22-minute live action series fronted by primates. Wed, 3 Jun 2009 10:53 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc4-needs-more-answers/5002084.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc4-needs-more-answers/5002084.article BBC4 has commissioned 13 more episodes of offbeat quiz show We Need Answers following a three-part trial run. Wed, 3 Jun 2009 10:43 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/citv-orders-more-emu/5002039.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/citv-orders-more-emu/5002039.article Anarchic puppet Emu is to return to ITV1 for a second run following its revival two years ago. Tue, 2 Jun 2009 09:48 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-extends-lifeline-to-britains-villages/5002038.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc1-extends-lifeline-to-britains-villages/5002038.article BBC1 is set to transform the fortunes of six villages in a primetime Lottery-funded series. Tue, 2 Jun 2009 09:37 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/shine-bags-good-food-order/5002037.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/shine-bags-good-food-order/5002037.article UKTV has commissioned Masterchef producer Shine to make a new family cookery series for its soon-to-launch channel Good Food. Tue, 2 Jun 2009 09:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/c4-to-adapt-thatcher-satire/5002017.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/c4-to-adapt-thatcher-satire/5002017.article The League of Gentlemen’s Jeremy Dyson is adapting Jonathan Coe’s satirical novel What a Carve Up! for Channel 4. Mon, 1 Jun 2009 12:50 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/tennants-hamlet-coming-to-bbc2/5001961.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/tennants-hamlet-coming-to-bbc2/5001961.article David Tennant is to bring his acclaimed stage performance of Hamlet to BBC2. Fri, 29 May 2009 09:59 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/sofias-diary-gets-edgier-third-run/5001908.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/sofias-diary-gets-edgier-third-run/5001908.article Sony Pictures Television is promising an “edgier” tone to its Bebo drama Sofia’s Diary when it returns for a third season. Thu, 28 May 2009 15:02 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/channel-4/blumenthal-serves-up-another-feast/5001906.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/channel-4/blumenthal-serves-up-another-feast/5001906.article Michelin-starred chef Heston Blumenthal is set to serve up another Feast as his experimental cookery show has been given a second series on Channel 4. Thu, 28 May 2009 15:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/delia-to-cook-up-classic-dishes-for-tribute-on-bbc2/5001902.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/delia-to-cook-up-classic-dishes-for-tribute-on-bbc2/5001902.article Delia Smith is to take a fresh look at the dishes that have defined her 40-year career in a major five-part series for BBC2. Thu, 28 May 2009 09:07 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/indies/bbc3-gives-a-strictly-spin-to-disabled-talent-show/5001859.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/indies/bbc3-gives-a-strictly-spin-to-disabled-talent-show/5001859.article BBC3 is to mix the glitz of Strictly Come Dancing with the public service gravitas of wheelchair use in its latest disabled talent format. Thu, 28 May 2009 09:02 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc3-quiz-show-to-test-theories-of-intelligence/5001879.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/bbc3-quiz-show-to-test-theories-of-intelligence/5001879.article BBC3 is to pit hairdressers against quantum physicists in a quiz show designed to challenge conventional thinking on intelligence. Thu, 28 May 2009 08:52 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/zephaniah-teams-with-leopard-for-murder-drama/5001877.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/zephaniah-teams-with-leopard-for-murder-drama/5001877.article Poet Benjamin Zephaniah is working with Leopard Films on his first TV drama project for 17 years. Thu, 28 May 2009 08:51 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/itv/spall-to-star-in-ahernes-itv1-obesity-drama/5001860.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/itv/spall-to-star-in-ahernes-itv1-obesity-drama/5001860.article Timothy Spall is to don a fat suit for an ITV1 comedy drama by Caroline Aherne about a man so obese he cannot leave his chair. Thu, 28 May 2009 08:50 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/channel-4/cherie-blair-takes-to-the-streets-for-dispatches-doc/5001862.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/channel-4/cherie-blair-takes-to-the-streets-for-dispatches-doc/5001862.article Cherie Blair will join police patrols on some of Britain’s toughest estates in a follow-up to last year’s Channel 4 series, The Truth About Street Weapons. Thu, 28 May 2009 08:48 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/itv-takes-holden-and-lumley-on-factual-journeys/5001861.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/itv-takes-holden-and-lumley-on-factual-journeys/5001861.article ITV1 is to continue its run of celebrity-led factual journeys, with actresses Joanna Lumley and Amanda Holden fronting two documentary series.  Thu, 28 May 2009 08:01 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/endemol-to-produce-bebo-music-show/5001835.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/endemol-to-produce-bebo-music-show/5001835.article Endemol is to make a daily music magazine show for social networking site Bebo, to be funded by Samsung Mobile. Wed, 27 May 2009 09:47 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/victims-son-to-front-madoff-doc/5001828.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/victims-son-to-front-madoff-doc/5001828.article The son of a British soldier who killed himself after his family’s life savings were swallowed up in Bernie Madoff’s $50bn swindle is to front a BBC2 doc on the subject. Wed, 27 May 2009 08:23 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/snog-marry-avoid-goes-abroad/5001827.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/snog-marry-avoid-goes-abroad/5001827.article BBC3 ‘make-under’ format Snog Marry Avoid? is to venture overseas to tackle the holiday style of Brits abroad in its third series. Wed, 27 May 2009 08:17 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/tennant-to-voice-animated-doctor-who-series/5001820.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/commissioning/tennant-to-voice-animated-doctor-who-series/5001820.article David Tennant is to voice an animated spin-off series of Doctor Who set to debut this autumn. Tue, 26 May 2009 10:37 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/bbc-orders-online-sketch-show-from-rdf/5001818.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/bbc-orders-online-sketch-show-from-rdf/5001818.article The BBC has commissioned an online sketch show featuring a vicar and a rabbi grappling with their laddish tendencies. Tue, 26 May 2009 10:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc4-to-dramatise-life-of-fonteyn/5001749.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc4-to-dramatise-life-of-fonteyn/5001749.article Anne-Marie Duff, star of The Virgin Queen and Is Anybody There?, is to play late ballet icon Dame Margot Fonteyn in a BBC4 biopic. Fri, 22 May 2009 11:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itunes-festival-returns-to-itv2/5001680.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itunes-festival-returns-to-itv2/5001680.article Kasabian, Oasis and Snow Patrol are set for ITV2 this summer, with commissioners ordering a second dose of the iTunes Live: London Festival. Fri, 22 May 2009 10:36 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/t4-orders-celeb-eye-view-doc/5001750.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/t4-orders-celeb-eye-view-doc/5001750.article Channel 4 has ordered a showbiz pilot from Whizz Kid Entertainment where a pin-hole camera fixed at eye-level follows celebrities for a day to see how they really live. Fri, 22 May 2009 07:40 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/gladiators-out-gray-in-at-murphys-sky-1/5001743.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/gladiators-out-gray-in-at-murphys-sky-1/5001743.article Stuart Murphy has stamped his authority on Sky 1 by axing Gladiators and Don’t Forget the Lyrics and luring Duncan Gray to the channel as commissioning editor for entertainment. Thu, 21 May 2009 19:17 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/animal-planet-hooks-second-icon-fish-series/5001736.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/animal-planet-hooks-second-icon-fish-series/5001736.article Bristol-based indie Icon Films has been commissioned by US cable channel Animal Planet to make a second run of its fishing adventure series, River Monsters. Thu, 21 May 2009 19:06 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-staff-angry-at-10m-discovery-commission/5001729.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-staff-angry-at-10m-discovery-commission/5001729.article BBC Natural History Unit staff are upset after its former head, Keith Scholey, won a £10m-plus commission from Discovery with an idea similar to one they also pitched. Thu, 21 May 2009 18:56 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-to-look-at-key-to-success-for-john-lewis/5001725.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-to-look-at-key-to-success-for-john-lewis/5001725.article BBC2 will look at John Lewis’s 150-year history and how the department store business is weathering the current  recession in a documentary series. Thu, 21 May 2009 18:42 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/suchet-on-board-orient-express-for-itv1-history-doc/5001724.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/suchet-on-board-orient-express-for-itv1-history-doc/5001724.article Life will imitate art for Poirot actor David Suchet as he takes the Orient Express across Europe for an ITV1 documentary. Thu, 21 May 2009 18:40 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/gyles-brandreth-to-host-bbc2-quiz-show-knowitalls/5001723.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/gyles-brandreth-to-host-bbc2-quiz-show-knowitalls/5001723.article BBC2 is to air a quiz show without any questions. Knowitalls will be hosted by politician-turned-Countdown regular Gyles Brandreth. Thu, 21 May 2009 18:38 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-will-profile-life-of-world-war-vet-harry-patch/5001721.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-will-profile-life-of-world-war-vet-harry-patch/5001721.article The modern-day life of Harry Patch, the last surviving fighting soldier of the First World War, will be profiled in a one-off documentary for BBC1. Thu, 21 May 2009 18:35 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/give-us-the-wocc-radio-indies-tell-bbc-management/5001718.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/give-us-the-wocc-radio-indies-tell-bbc-management/5001718.article Radio indies are urging the BBC to extend the Window of Creative Commission to its radio output. Thu, 21 May 2009 17:54 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-to-hunt-junior-apprentice/5001744.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-to-hunt-junior-apprentice/5001744.article Sir Alan Sugar will challenge 10 teenagers to win a £25,000 career boost in spin-off series Junior Apprentice. Thu, 21 May 2009 14:19 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-names-new-scotland-commissioner/5001669.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-names-new-scotland-commissioner/5001669.article The BBC has hired Sam Anthony as its knowledge commissioning executive producer for Scotland – fresh from Jane Root’s new indie Nutopia. Wed, 20 May 2009 07:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/attenborough-to-unveil-missing-link/5001668.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/attenborough-to-unveil-missing-link/5001668.article David Attenborough is set to explore the 47 million-year-old ‘missing link’ in human evolution in a primetime BBC documentary. Wed, 20 May 2009 07:32 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/generation-kill-director-joins-bbc-drama/5001662.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/generation-kill-director-joins-bbc-drama/5001662.article BBC1’s sci-fi thriller Paradox will be directed by Simon Cellan Jones (Generation Kill) and will star Tamzin Outhwaite. Wed, 20 May 2009 02:36 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hunniford-to-study-angels-for-sky-real-lives/5001661.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hunniford-to-study-angels-for-sky-real-lives/5001661.article Gloria Hunniford will explore the phenomenon of guardian angels and angelic power as part of a major series for Sky Real Lives. Wed, 20 May 2009 02:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hbo-orders-ricky-gervais-animation-series/5001629.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hbo-orders-ricky-gervais-animation-series/5001629.article Ricky Gervais is creating an animated show for US cable channel HBO based on his hit series of podcasts. Mon, 18 May 2009 01:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-religion-hiring-sparks-115-complaints/5001621.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-religion-hiring-sparks-115-complaints/5001621.article The BBC has assured audiences that Christians “will remain the key audience” for its religious output, following a deluge of complaints over the appointment of a Muslim as its new head of religion. Fri, 15 May 2009 23:49 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/torchwood-radio-plays-to-fill-doctor-who-hiatus/5001620.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/torchwood-radio-plays-to-fill-doctor-who-hiatus/5001620.article The BBC is to fill the gaps between seasons of Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood with three radio plays. Fri, 15 May 2009 23:47 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4s-younghusband-takes-final-bbc-knowledge-job/5001610.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4s-younghusband-takes-final-bbc-knowledge-job/5001610.article Jan Younghusband is leaving Channel 4 after a decade to take the commissioning editor for music and events role at the BBC. Thu, 14 May 2009 23:26 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv-programming-budget-slashed-by-20m/5001604.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv-programming-budget-slashed-by-20m/5001604.article ITV AGM: ITV is to cut its programming budget by a further £20m - part of measures to save £40m at the commercial broadcaster. Thu, 14 May 2009 22:45 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/shine-sets-masterchef-superbrand-strategy/5001595.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/shine-sets-masterchef-superbrand-strategy/5001595.article Shine Television is planning to turn MasterChef into a global superbrand after inking a deal to produce more than 150 new hours of the show for the BBC. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:43 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/ahmeds-final-orders-for-c4/5001593.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/ahmeds-final-orders-for-c4/5001593.article The director of The Qur’an will interview Britain’s religious leaders about contemporary issues in one of the swansong commissions of outgoing Channel 4 editor for religion Aaqil Ahmed. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:37 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-switch-soap-will-air-online-and-have-tv-slot/5001589.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-switch-soap-will-air-online-and-have-tv-slot/5001589.article BBC Switch is to launch what is planned as a long-running online soap that will also get a weekly omnibus slot on BBC2. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:29 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/dawn-porter-to-front-sky-1-series/5001587.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/dawn-porter-to-front-sky-1-series/5001587.article Sky 1 has hired Dawn Porter to present an emotional documentary series exploring breast cancer. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:24 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/sas-faker-to-head-c4-first-cut-doc-strand/5001585.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/sas-faker-to-head-c4-first-cut-doc-strand/5001585.article Century Films will investigate the life and death of an SAS fantasist in one of a pair of commissions for the upcoming run of Channel 4 documentary strand First Cut. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:18 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/iwc-to-celebrate-africas-history-for-bbc4/5001583.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/iwc-to-celebrate-africas-history-for-bbc4/5001583.article BBC4 is to examine the “forgotten” history of pre-colonial Africa in a series from IWC Media. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:13 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-reveals-new-team-to-commission-knowledge/5001582.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-reveals-new-team-to-commission-knowledge/5001582.article Producers are anticipating a fresh impetus behind religion and arts programming at the BBC, after the corporation revealed its new knowledge commissioning line-up. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/tmi-presenters-to-front-cbbc-skate-nation/5001581.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/tmi-presenters-to-front-cbbc-skate-nation/5001581.article CBBC has ordered a Strictly Come Dancing-style show for teenage roller and inline skaters, fronted by TMi’s Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:10 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/pinkham-and-strachan-host-new-five-shows/5001580.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/pinkham-and-strachan-host-new-five-shows/5001580.article Five has handed presenters Natalie Pinkham and Michaela Strachan new shows as it builds on its blue-light and wildlife output. Thu, 14 May 2009 21:09 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hollywood-picks-global-vet-series-for-sky-1-debut/5001576.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hollywood-picks-global-vet-series-for-sky-1-debut/5001576.article A UK vet will swap British cats and dogs for exotic animals from different continents as part of Clare Hollywood’s first original commission for Sky 1. Thu, 14 May 2009 20:58 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/greys-anatomy-star-cast-in-bbc-hospital-drama/5001514.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/greys-anatomy-star-cast-in-bbc-hospital-drama/5001514.article Grey’s Anatomy’s Kevin McKidd is to star in another medical drama – a BBC production that transplants Greek classic The Odyssey to a British city hospital. Wed, 13 May 2009 00:38 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/katy-brand-returning-to-itv2-for-third-series/5001512.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/katy-brand-returning-to-itv2-for-third-series/5001512.article Comedian Katy Brand will be returning to ITV2 this autumn with a third instalment of Katy’s Brand’s Big Ass Show. Wed, 13 May 2009 00:33 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/jane-root-resurfaces-with-new-indie/5001502.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/jane-root-resurfaces-with-new-indie/5001502.article Jane Root has formed her own production company, Nutopia, and has won a major commission from History US. Tue, 12 May 2009 23:52 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/wild-at-heart-wins-fifth-series/5001496.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/wild-at-heart-wins-fifth-series/5001496.article ITV has commissioned a fifth series of Wild at Heart, scotching rumours that the Africa-based drama could be axed. Tue, 12 May 2009 23:40 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-orders-mccain-funded-sports-show/5001484.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-orders-mccain-funded-sports-show/5001484.article Channel 4 has ordered a grass roots athletics show that will be sponsored by frozen food manufacturer McCain Foods. Tue, 12 May 2009 23:02 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc3-orders-russell-tovey-comedy/5001482.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc3-orders-russell-tovey-comedy/5001482.article BBC3 has commissioned a broadcast pilot set entirely in a couple’s bedroom, starring Being Human actor Russell Tovey. Tue, 12 May 2009 22:54 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-poaches-c4s-ahmed-in-new-knowledge-hirings/5001486.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-poaches-c4s-ahmed-in-new-knowledge-hirings/5001486.article Channel 4’s Aaqil Ahmed has been poached to run the BBC’s religion and ethics department as part of the second round of Knowledge appointments – in which four of the key commissioning jobs have been handed to existing BBC staff. Mon, 11 May 2009 23:06 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-developing-new-sarah-waters-drama/5001471.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-developing-new-sarah-waters-drama/5001471.article BBC2 is eyeing an adaptation of Sarah Waters’ novel The Night Watch as a one-off feature-length drama. Mon, 11 May 2009 22:27 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-ni-names-new-commisioning-exec/2027644.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-ni-names-new-commisioning-exec/2027644.article Timewatch exec James Hayes has landed the job of BBC commissioning executive producer for Northern Ireland. Fri, 8 May 2009 12:43 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/uktvs-home-orders-more-community-makeover-shows/2027621.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/uktvs-home-orders-more-community-makeover-shows/2027621.article American Ty Pennington will return to UKTV this spring to dish out a double dose of goodwill. Fri, 8 May 2009 12:05 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/russell-howard-to-host-bbc3-comedy-pilot/2027612.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/russell-howard-to-host-bbc3-comedy-pilot/2027612.article Mock the Week star Russell Howard is fronting a pilot that is lined up to be BBC3's first topical comedy show. Fri, 8 May 2009 11:58 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/french-in-bbc2-minutiae-of-marriage-sitcom/2026059.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/french-in-bbc2-minutiae-of-marriage-sitcom/2026059.article Bafta fellowship-winning comedian Dawn French is to swap her cassock for civvies in a comedy about married life for BBC2. Wed, 6 May 2009 17:23 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/milne-and-daybreak-develop-c4-drama/2026043.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/milne-and-daybreak-develop-c4-drama/2026043.article Paula Milne, the writer of Channel 4 drama Endgame, has re-teamed with Daybreak Pictures for a series about a therapist accused of murder. C4 head of drama Liza Marshall has put development money into scripts for the project, which has the working title Cleaver. Wed, 6 May 2009 17:05 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/zig-zag-builds-on-dyer-brand-with-fourth-series-for-bravo/2026033.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/zig-zag-builds-on-dyer-brand-with-fourth-series-for-bravo/2026033.article Zig Zag Productions will send Cockney actor Danny Dyer to live with some of Britain's most feared men in the follow-up to Bravo's best performing commission of 2008. Wed, 6 May 2009 17:01 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/doherty-to-take-fresh-focus-on-food-for-bbc1/2026023.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/doherty-to-take-fresh-focus-on-food-for-bbc1/2026023.article TV pig farmer Jimmy Doherty will visit the country's leading food manufacturers to discover the science behind mass production for his debut BBC1 series. Wed, 6 May 2009 16:55 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/wire-star-to-feature-in-bbc4-period-drama/2025448.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/wire-star-to-feature-in-bbc4-period-drama/2025448.article The Wire's Dominic West is to star as straight-talking Australian scientist in a BBC4 drama about the discovery of penicillin. Wed, 6 May 2009 08:55 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/gary-glitter-character-to-feature-in-c4-drama/2025207.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/gary-glitter-character-to-feature-in-c4-drama/2025207.article Channel 4 is lining up a drama about the death penalty that will feature disgraced pop star Gary Glitter as one of its characters. Tue, 5 May 2009 10:58 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-sends-location-host-to-oz/2024870.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-sends-location-host-to-oz/2024870.article Channel 4 property presenter Phil Spencer is to head to Australia for his next project for the channel. Fri, 1 May 2009 12:25 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv-is-overstocked-says-grade/2023920.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv-is-overstocked-says-grade/2023920.article ITV has scaled back its commissioning needs because it is “overstocked” with programmes, according to outgoing executive chairman Michael Grade. Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:40 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/monty-don-back-with-c4-show/2023651.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/monty-don-back-with-c4-show/2023651.article Monty Don is to meet people trying to live The Good Life for real in his first TV project since a minor stroke forced him to quit Gardeners' World. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 18:06 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/house-of-saddam-writer-inks-greenlit-deal/2023601.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/house-of-saddam-writer-inks-greenlit-deal/2023601.article House of Saddam creat-or Alex Holmes has signed a first-look drama deal with Foyle's Greenlit Rights. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:18 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-doc-exposes-skin-lightening-products/2023596.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-doc-exposes-skin-lightening-products/2023596.article The One Show and Watchdog's Anita Rani is to turn the spotlight on skin-lightening treatments in a one-off documentary for BBC1. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:14 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/sky-arts-goes-backstage-with-godot-stars/2023580.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/sky-arts-goes-backstage-with-godot-stars/2023580.article Sky Arts will go backstage at Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot in what it claims is the first behind-the-scenes documentary series set in a major West End playhouse. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:08 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bedell-seeks-shiny-floor-show/2023578.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bedell-seeks-shiny-floor-show/2023578.article New ITV director of comedy and entertainment Elaine Bedell is looking for a 60-minute entertainment show to air at 9pm on Fridays on ITV1. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:07 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-orders-psb-take-on-the-amazing-race-format/2023574.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-orders-psb-take-on-the-amazing-race-format/2023574.article BBC1 has ordered an adventure format from the executive producer of Last Man Standing that will ‘abandon' losing contestants in far-flung locations around the world. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:04 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv1-to-air-crime-doc-on-tv-appeal-phenomenon/2023417.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv1-to-air-crime-doc-on-tv-appeal-phenomenon/2023417.article ITV1 is to examine the phenomenon of people who make impassioned TV appeals about kidnaps and murderers - and then turn out to have committed the crime. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:04 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itvs-benidorm-to-return-with-hour-long-episodes/2023261.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itvs-benidorm-to-return-with-hour-long-episodes/2023261.article Tiger Aspect's Spanish holiday resort comedy Benidorm will switch to hour-long episodes kicking off with a one-off special when it returns to ITV1 this summer. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:59 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/wurzer-named-new-living-commissioning-editor/2022891.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/wurzer-named-new-living-commissioning-editor/2022891.article Living has hired Target TV's head of development as a commissioning editor for the channel. Tue, 28 Apr 2009 12:23 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/details-emerge-of-criminal-justice-sequel/2022463.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/details-emerge-of-criminal-justice-sequel/2022463.article The sequel to BBC1's Bafta-winning drama Criminal Justice will revolve around a woman charged with murder. Mon, 27 Apr 2009 10:47 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/the-thick-of-it-elected-for-bbc2-move/2022433.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/the-thick-of-it-elected-for-bbc2-move/2022433.article The Thick of It is to move from BBC4 to BBC2 for its third series. Mon, 27 Apr 2009 10:31 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-orders-more-mitchell-and-webb/2022351.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-orders-more-mitchell-and-webb/2022351.article David Mitchell and Robert Webb will introduce “embarrassingly un-PC superhero” Captain Todger in the third series of That Mitchell and Webb Look, which has been commissioned for 2010. Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:53 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/sky-1s-murphy-to-kick-off-with-sports-show/2021506.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/sky-1s-murphy-to-kick-off-with-sports-show/2021506.article One of incoming Sky 1 director of programmes Stuart Murphy's first jobs will be to commission a They Think It's All Over-style comedy sports panel show. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:42 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-explores-force-of-nature/2021502.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-explores-force-of-nature/2021502.article BBC2 is to follow 2007's landmark Earth: The Power of the Planet with a 6 x 60-minute series looking at the planet's power over people. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:35 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/discovery-offers-double-helping-of-property/2021466.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/discovery-offers-double-helping-of-property/2021466.article Discovery UK has ordered two credit crunch property renovation series. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:49 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/fremantle-makes-teen-drama-for-myspace/2021461.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/fremantle-makes-teen-drama-for-myspace/2021461.article Fremantle Media is producing a HD online drama for social networking site MySpace UK that is being sponsored by Red Bull and Tampax. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:37 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/fresh-talent-in-bbc3-teen-season/2021456.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/fresh-talent-in-bbc3-teen-season/2021456.article BBC3 will air three docs from new talent initiative Fresh as part of a Growing Up season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:31 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/ian-wright-for-sky-1-young-offenders-show/2021443.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/ian-wright-for-sky-1-young-offenders-show/2021443.article Ian Wright will offer young offenders the chance to become professional footballers in a 6 x 60-minute series for Sky 1. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hairy-bikers-ride-back-to-bbc2/2021435.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hairy-bikers-ride-back-to-bbc2/2021435.article The Hairy Bikers are to return to BBC2 in a 6 x 60-minute series about family recipes. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:25 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/mckeown-set-to-return-to-mumbai-for-bbc1-drama/2021424.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/mckeown-set-to-return-to-mumbai-for-bbc1-drama/2021424.article Allan McKeown, the creator of Mumbai Calling, plans to return to the Indian city to adapt a six-part period drama for BBC1 based on a bestselling novel. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:17 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/at-a-glance-bbc2-spring/summer-09/2021088.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/at-a-glance-bbc2-spring/summer-09/2021088.article Click on the links below to browse new programming coming to BBC2 throughout spring/summer 2009. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:35 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-poetry-season/2021084.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-poetry-season/2021084.article BBC2 leads a season of poetry-themed content across television, radio and online. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:24 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-food/2021080.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-food/2021080.article At-a-glance guide to forthcoming food programming in BBC2's spring/summer 2009 season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:23 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-music/2021076.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-music/2021076.article At-a-glance guide to forthcoming music programming in BBC2's spring/summer 2009 season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:22 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-documentary/2021072.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-documentary/2021072.article At-a-glance guide to forthcoming documentary programming in BBC2's spring/summer 2009 season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:20 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-factual/2021068.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-factual/2021068.article At-a-glance guide to forthcoming factual programming in BBC2's spring/summer 2009 season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:19 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-drama/2021064.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-drama/2021064.article At-a-glance guide to forthcoming drama in BBC2's spring/summer 2009 season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:17 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-comedy/2021060.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-comedy/2021060.article At-a-glance guide to forthcoming comedy in BBC2's spring/summer 2009 season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:13 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-moon-season/2021055.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-spring/summer-09-moon-season/2021055.article At-a-glance round-up of programmes from BBC2's forthcoming Moon season. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:11 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-to-celebrate-moon-landing-anniversary/2020903.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-to-celebrate-moon-landing-anniversary/2020903.article A new slot for The Culture Show and a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the first moon landing are among the highlights of BBC2's spring/summer schedule. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:34 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/silence-is-golden-on-cbbc/2020811.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/silence-is-golden-on-cbbc/2020811.article Zodiak-owned indie Lucky Day is making a CBBC show that will reward children for keeping quiet. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:15 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/renwick-confirms-return-of-jonathan-creek/2020766.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/renwick-confirms-return-of-jonathan-creek/2020766.article Alan Davies is set to reprise his role as magician sleuth Jonathan Creek for a second feature-length special for Easter next year, writer David Renwick has confirmed. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 09:08 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/celeb-parents-in-reality-show/2020365.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/celeb-parents-in-reality-show/2020365.article Jeremy Clarkson's mother and Vinnie Jones' father are set to star in a new reality entertainment series for Sky Real Lives. Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:15 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/e4-lines-up-hollyoaks-spin-off/2020067.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/e4-lines-up-hollyoaks-spin-off/2020067.article Hollyoaks is set for another late-night spin-off on E4 this autumn. Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:03 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/boomerang-wins35m-order/2019825.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/boomerang-wins35m-order/2019825.article Boomerang Plus has won a raft of commissions from Welsh language broadcaster S4C. Thu, 16 Apr 2009 07:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-develops-downs-drama/2019224.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc-develops-downs-drama/2019224.article BBC1 is developing a comedy drama about two young people with Down's syndrome who run away to get married at Gretna Green. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:44 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbcs-shearman-will-spearhead-wales-shake-up/2019133.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbcs-shearman-will-spearhead-wales-shake-up/2019133.article The BBC has tasked Nick Shearman with developing indie factual commissioning from Wales as part of its nations and regions shake up. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:12 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bedells-first-itv-order-is-piers-extension/2019123.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bedells-first-itv-order-is-piers-extension/2019123.article ITV director of entertainment and comedy Elaine Bedell's first commission is to hand Piers Morgan an extended run of his Life Stories chat show. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:05 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-brings-back-restoration/2019043.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-brings-back-restoration/2019043.article BBC2 has revived the Griff Rhys Jones-fronted architecture show Restoration for a one-off special, three years after it last aired. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 15:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv2-to-cover-isle-of-wight-festival/2018752.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/itv2-to-cover-isle-of-wight-festival/2018752.article ITV2 will return to the Isle of Wight this year for its weekend long music festival. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:45 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-to-show-nudes-before-the-watershed/2018371.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-to-show-nudes-before-the-watershed/2018371.article Channel 4 is to take a literal approach to stripped programming with a week-long series of masterclasses in painting nude figures. Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-to-adapt-amis-money/2017913.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-to-adapt-amis-money/2017913.article BBC2 is to revisit the 1980s era of unbridled capitalism in a two-part adaptation of Martin Amis' novel Money. Thu, 9 Apr 2009 10:57 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/rival-media-wins-rte2-agony-aunt-show/2017449.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/rival-media-wins-rte2-agony-aunt-show/2017449.article Rival Media will ask youngsters to act as agony aunts in one of a pair of commissions from Irish channel RTÉ2. Wed, 8 Apr 2009 08:30 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-plans-bible-follow-up-to-history-of-christianity/2017418.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-plans-bible-follow-up-to-history-of-christianity/2017418.article Channel 4 is to follow up Christianity: a History with a series of personal interpretations of the Bible. Tue, 7 Apr 2009 18:40 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/shine-makes-tv-quiz-for-bbc1/2017395.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/shine-makes-tv-quiz-for-bbc1/2017395.article BBC1 has commissioned Shine Television to make a Buzzcocks-style quiz show about TV. Tue, 7 Apr 2009 18:24 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/watch-snaps-up-itv-pilot-show/2017376.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/watch-snaps-up-itv-pilot-show/2017376.article UKTV's Watch has ordered a hidden camera show, originally piloted for ITV1, in which children under five do adult jobs such as running a café. Tue, 7 Apr 2009 17:53 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/coltrane-steps-back-into-police-role-for-itv-thriller/2017371.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/coltrane-steps-back-into-police-role-for-itv-thriller/2017371.article Cracker star Robbie Coltrane is to return to ITV crime drama in a new thriller told from three different perspectives. Tue, 7 Apr 2009 17:44 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc4-unveils-landmark-christianity-series/2017335.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc4-unveils-landmark-christianity-series/2017335.article BBC4 is to examine the beginnings of Christianity and what it means to be a part of the religion in a new “landmark” series lined up for the autumn. Tue, 7 Apr 2009 16:56 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/parthenon-wins-myth-series-commission/2017147.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/parthenon-wins-myth-series-commission/2017147.article Parthenon Entertainment has won its biggest series commission to date, a 13 x 30-minute series for National Geographic Channels International that will debunk the myths surrounding famous historical figures. Tue, 7 Apr 2009 14:13 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/the-thick-of-it-to-return/2016613.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/the-thick-of-it-to-return/2016613.article A further eight episodes of BBC satirical comedy The Thick of It are in the pipeline, creator Armando Iannucci has confirmed. Mon, 6 Apr 2009 11:50 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-to-recreate-madeleine-mccann-events/2016527.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/c4-to-recreate-madeleine-mccann-events/2016527.article The team behind ITV1 documentary Madeleine: A Year On will stage the first reconstruction of the events that led up to Madeleine McCann's disappearance for a Channel 4 documentary. Mon, 6 Apr 2009 10:21 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/iranu-indeed-shooting-stars-is-back/2016241.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/iranu-indeed-shooting-stars-is-back/2016241.article Reeves and Mortimer's anarchic game show Shooting Stars is to return for a full series on BBC2 following a one-off special last Christmas. Fri, 3 Apr 2009 10:53 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/cbbcs-got-the-zoo-factor/2015729.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/cbbcs-got-the-zoo-factor/2015729.article MipTV: A Britain's Got Talent-style puppet show starring a host of wild animals and the catchphrase “If you're beaten, you're eaten”, is set for CBBC. Thu, 2 Apr 2009 12:28 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/channel-4-doc-slate-to-lift-veil-on-gypsy-weddings/2015936.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/channel-4-doc-slate-to-lift-veil-on-gypsy-weddings/2015936.article Firecracker Films is to lift the lid on extravagant Gypsy weddings in a Channel 4 documentary. Thu, 2 Apr 2009 09:39 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc3-goes-to-manchester-for-fresh-pair-of-sitcoms/2015859.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc3-goes-to-manchester-for-fresh-pair-of-sitcoms/2015859.article Nigel Havers is the unlikely star of one of a pair of new BBC3 comedy series from Manchester indies. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 19:08 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/falling-man-director-to-probe-kenyan-murder/2015807.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/falling-man-director-to-probe-kenyan-murder/2015807.article Falling Man director Henry Singer is to explore the unsolved murder of Oscar-nominated natural history film-maker and environmental campaigner Joan Root in a BBC documentary. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 18:29 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hutton-to-explain-the-mess-were-in-for-dispatches/2015791.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hutton-to-explain-the-mess-were-in-for-dispatches/2015791.article Channel 4 has commissioned journalist and economist Will Hutton to attempt to explain the causes and implications of the global economic crisis. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 18:13 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/screw-turns-again-for-bbc1/2015787.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/screw-turns-again-for-bbc1/2015787.article BBC1 has commissioned a 1920s-set version of Henry James' classic ghost story The Turn of the Screw. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 18:10 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/the-devils-whore-team-develop-c4-restoration-sequel/2015772.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/the-devils-whore-team-develop-c4-restoration-sequel/2015772.article The creators of Channel 4's English Civil War drama The Devil's Whore have begun working on a follow-up set during the Restoration period. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 17:52 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/tv-order-for-whitehouse-higson-radio-comedy/2015695.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/tv-order-for-whitehouse-higson-radio-comedy/2015695.article Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson's spoof phone-in show Down the Line is the latest Radio 4 show to transfer to TV. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 17:01 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-series-for-dead-ringers-star/2015626.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc1-series-for-dead-ringers-star/2015626.article BBC1 is to air a pre-watershed comedy series featuring Dead Ringers star Jon Culshaw. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 17:00 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/five-orders-simon-cowell-and-michael-jackson-docs/2015578.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/five-orders-simon-cowell-and-michael-jackson-docs/2015578.article Five has ordered two more 60-minute fast turnaround docs from Zig Zag Productions on Michael Jackson and Simon Cowell. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 15:17 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/ray-mears-in-new-survival-bid/2015572.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/ray-mears-in-new-survival-bid/2015572.article Wilderness expert Ray Mears will track three of nature's top predators in a revival of classic ITV1 natural history brand Survival next year. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 15:12 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hutton-to-examine-downturn-for-channel-4/2015509.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hutton-to-examine-downturn-for-channel-4/2015509.article Channel 4 has commissioned journalist and economist Will Hutton to attempt to explain the causes and implications of the global economic crisis. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:08 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/indie-to-pimp-my-bride/2015401.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/indie-to-pimp-my-bride/2015401.article Plain brides-to-be will get made over Katie Price style for their wedding day in a new series being developed by indie Cat Boards. Wed, 1 Apr 2009 11:46 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/second-series-of-horne-and-corden-in-pipeline/2014856.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/second-series-of-horne-and-corden-in-pipeline/2014856.article The BBC is in “advanced discussions” over a second series of the Tiger Aspect sketch show Horne & Corden, despite a poor critical reception. Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:41 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-orders-improv-comedy-series/2014813.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc2-orders-improv-comedy-series/2014813.article The improvisational skills of young comedians will be put to the test in real-life scenarios for a new BBC2 series. Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:50 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/kudos-working-on-bbc-pirate-drama/2014621.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/kudos-working-on-bbc-pirate-drama/2014621.article MipTV: Kudos is developing two major drama series for the BBC, including a swashbuckling pirate adventure with a modern feel. Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:36 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc4-lines-up-royal-opera-house-shows/2014503.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/bbc4-lines-up-royal-opera-house-shows/2014503.article BBC4 is to broadcast a three-part series on Italian opera classics and Verdi's acclaimed opera Don Carlo as part of a new agreement with the Royal Opera House. Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:14 GMT http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hawking-to-crack-cosmos-for-discovery/2012974.article?referrer=RSS http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/hawking-to-crack-cosmos-for-discovery/2012974.article Darlow Smithson Productions has secured Stephen Hawking to front a major Discovery Channel series that aims to do for the universe what David Attenborough has done for natural history. Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:34 GMT