Coveted slot for Lee's US debut

Lee Mack is to make his American TV debut in a coveted prime-time slot.

The stand-up stars in the US version of The Sketch Show – the only original cast member from the ITV series to make it across the Atlantic.

And now the Fox network have announced that the first episode will air at 9.30pm on Sunday March 13.

It will go out immediately after the premiere of a new Simpons episode, almost guaranteeing it a sizeable inherited audience.

Frasier star Kelsey Grammer introduces the show, and takes part in a couple of sketches, also ensuring interest from American viewers.

The show was originally schedules to air at 7pm on Sundays from January, but the later, post-Simpsons slot is more sought-after.

Fox is producing the show with Avalon TV, the broadcast arm of the British comedy management company.

Meanwhile, four-man British sketch troupe The Hollow Men will be making their American debut on Comedy Central on March 10.

David Armand, Rupert Russell, Sam Spedding and Nick Tanner have landed a six-part series with the US broadcaster.

Published: 18 Feb 2005