BBC announce iconic series will return nearly 18 years after being axed
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Celebrating 25 years since its launch, the iconic BBC comedy Dead Ringers is making waves as it prepares for something quite extraordinary. The show, a favourite among fans that has been off-air for nearly two decades, is set to take an exciting new direction.
Marking its quarter of a century legacy, Dead Ringers will venture outside the studio for its inaugural UK-wide tour. Renowned for its biting political satire and uncanny impersonations, the series aims to continue delivering laughs to live audiences from across the country.
Original cast members such as Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Lewis McLeod, and Duncan Wisbey will lead the expedition, revisiting beloved sketches and providing the top-tier comedy commentary the show is famed for.
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Although the cast have rendezvoused for stage shows in London and the Edinburgh Festival in the past, this impending tour signifies their first full-scale trek around the UK together.
The tour not only brings laughter but also stands as a commemoration of Bill Dare, the esteemed creator and producer of Dead Ringers, who tragically passed away this March following an accident abroad. JFL Agency, through which Dare was represented, announced the sad news, with their spokesperson expressing: "We are shocked and greatly saddened to have to announce the death of our brilliant client Bill Dare, who died at the weekend following an accident overseas.", reports Belfast Live.
"Our thoughts are with his wife Lucy, daughter Rebecca, and with all of Bill's family and friends who will be devastated by his loss. Bill was a truly legendary producer and writer, and his comedy instincts were second to none."
Bill stood as a giant in the world of radio and TV comedy, having played a key role in the creation of seminal shows like The Now Show, Spitting Image, and The Mary Whitehouse Experience.
The Dead Ringers crew have shared their excitement about embarking on a tour to honour his legacy. Starting in September, fans can expect a classic mix of satire, mischief, and uncanny impressions that Dead Ringers is celebrated for.
Before they take to the stage, the radio iteration of Dead Ringers is set to air this June on BBC Radio 4's Friday Night Comedy. It's important to note that the tour will offer an exclusive live experience that won't be broadcast.
The TV version of Dead Ringers was axed in 2009 after seven series. At the time, leading lady Jan Ravens remarked: "It's bizarre, there was no announcement or anything.
"The producer just rang me and said it's not going to be re-commissioned. It would be nice to make an announcement or do a farewell edition of the show."
Throughout its nine-year run, Jan masterfully mimicked a host of personalities, from Amy Winehouse to Ann Robinson, showcasing her remarkable talent for impersonation.
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