Bill too busy to record series 22

Bill Bailey is quitting as a team captain on Never Mind The Buzzcocks.

The comic has appeared on an incredible 11 series of the TV quiz show in the past six years.

He has decided to step down because of other work commitments, and his place will be taken by guest captains when the 22nd series begins next month.

Bailey was unable to attend filming for the first three episodes of the last series, and was replaced by Noel Fielding.

Guests lined up to take his place in the next include Frank Skinner, Jack Dee, Johnny Vegas and Bob Mortimer, while opposing team captain team captain Phill Jupitus and host Simon Amstell both return

The show's producer, TalkbackThames, said: ‘After 11 series selflessly, heroically and hilariously captaining one side on Never Mind The Buzzcocks, other commitments have sadly led to Bill Bailey being unable to take part in the forthcoming series of the hit comedy pop quiz.’

Bailey will be performing his Remarkable Guide to the Orchestra, featuring a full orchestra, at the Brighton Dome and the Royal Albert Hall next month.

Published: 18 Sep 2008