Topical comedy show for Graham

The BBC have finally found a vehicle for big-money signing Graham Norton - a topical comedy show.

Although the schedules have recently been awash with topical comedies, from What's The Problem With Anne Robinson, 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Mock The Week, the new show promises 'the week's events as viewers have never seen them before'.

The Bigger Picture will launch on Monday August 1, and will be filmed 'as live' on the night of transmission.

It will feature what are billed as A-list guests, comedy sketches and short films.

Norton said: 'I’ve wanted to make a show like this for a very long time, to work with the best comedy writers, tell lots of jokes and talk to people about things that interest me, outside of them plugging their latest book or film,.

'It’s great that the BBC is giving me the opportunity and I can’t wait to get back to a comedy show.'

Norton signed a deal with the BBC worth a reported £3.5 million to revive its light entertainment schedules, but the corporation has struggled to find the right vehicle for him.

So far, his highest profile role has been hosting the spin-off show Strictly Dance Fever.

Published: 16 Jul 2005