New C4 comedy in the works

Peter Kay is working on a new TV series, spoofing talent shows such as X-Factor and Britain’s Got Talent.

The comic has previously mocked appalling amateur acts in Phoenix Nights, and the new parody Britain's Got The Pop Factor will take things further.

Among the characters is male-to-female transsexual singer Geraldine King – who Kay will play himself.

Another young hopeful is called Our Wayne, who works at an old folks home but dreams of being a rock star. He is booted off the talent show because he doesn’t have a sob story – but the shock causes his gran to have a heart attack, so judges invite him back.

The comic is also writing and directing the show, which will air on Channel 4, and filming begins in Manchester this summer.

Kay recently auctioned off a chance to watch the comedy being recorded at a charity fundraiser in memory of murdered schoolboy Joe Geeling.

He made a surprise appearance at the event in honour of the the youngster – who was murdered by a fellow pupil in Bury in March 2006 – to sell off the prize personally. The lot went for £16,000.

Published: 21 Apr 2008