A tight 5: January 9

THE documentary about Russell Brand’s conversion from comedian to political agitator, Second Coming, is to open this year’s South By Southwest festival in Texas in March. The festival’s head of film, Janet Peirson, said: ‘[Director] Ondi Timoner's bold and lively documentary knocked us out with its humour, insight and raw energy, pulling back the curtain on a truly passionate figure as he grapples with fame, influence and where we are as a 21st century society.’

JACK and Michael Whitehall are to perform a live version of their chat show Backchat to raise money for children orphaned by eboloa. The show in aid of the Street Child charity will take place at Cadogan Hall in Chelsea on February 6. Tickets.

THE KINGS ARMS in Salford, which regularly hosts comedy nights, has been named the best pub in Manchester. The venue is owned by former Beautiful South frontman Paul Heaton and Camden Fringe co-founder Zena Barrie, and run by Lisa Connor – who previously worked at the Lass O’Gowrie, another comedy favourite.

VEEP returns to HBO on April 12, the US broadcaster has announced, though there is no news on UK broadcast yet. Meanwhile the cable channel has ordered a 14th and 15th season of Real Time With Bill Maher, and Fox has ordered a sixth series of animated comedy Bob’s Burgers.

REGISTRATION has opened for this year’s Edinburgh Fringe. Shows with venue slots confirmed can now start entering details for the programme – even though the festival does not kick off until August 7.

Published: 9 Jan 2015