Last-minute panic for talk show producers

Frank Skinner has pulled out of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe at the last minute.

He had been due to host a Talk Show featuring some of the biggest stars to have appeared at the Assemby Rooms in the venue’s 30-year history at the festival.

The anniversary run was due to start today, but Skinner pulled out on Monday, leaving producers to draft in Stephen K Amos as a last-minute replacement.

In a statement, Skinner appeared to blame a lack of guests as a problem.

He said: ‘It's a great shame about The Talk Show. My bags were packed, my train ticket was in my pocket, and I was very excited about the whole thing.

‘It became apparent there were some brilliant people lined up but way too many gaps. It seems it was harder to put together than anyone thought. I'm genuinely gutted about it.’

Although there are still places to be filled in the 12.30pm show, confirmed guests include Alan Cumming, Clive Anderson, Alistair McGowan, Mel Smith, Steven Berkoff, Omid Djalili, Jenny Eclair, Jo Brand, Julian Clary and Barry Cryer.

Published: 11 Aug 2010