Sitcom writers 'must find new topics'

The BBC has urged new sitcom writers to think of fresh themes after being swamped with ideas covering the same topics.

Producers say they regularly receive scripts for comedies covering history, space, the media, parallel universes and the afterlife.

And they also receive too many topical ideas that will be stale by the time the programme airs. Friendsreunited.com is a current favourite among would-be writers.

The advice comes in a newly revised version of the corporation's writers' guidelines for TV and radio.

Other tips include

• Have focus, but don't be too narrow
• Surreal is not a substitute for funny
• Make sure the humour is driven by the characters, not just people saying funny one-liners

The advice is available online at the BBC Writers' Room.

Published: 21 May 2002