A tight 5: May 8

CHANNEL 4’s Alternative Election coverage was a ratings hit last night, peaking with 2.4million viewers at 10pm, and averaging 1.2million viewers between 9pm and 2am. The show, co-hosted by Jeremy Paxman and David Mitchell, made C4 the most popular channel for young viewers between 9pm and 10pm.

FRESH from his electoral defeat in South Thanet, Al Murray has announced a stand-up date in London’s Royal Albert Hall on October 11 next year, the first time he’s played the illustrious venue.

MEANWHILE, comedian Matt Forde, who acted as Murray’s campaign adviser, has landed a scoop – with the first live interview of boxing promoter Kellie Maloney since her gender realignment surgery. Maloney, formerly known as Frank, is to be the guest on Forde’s regular Sports Party show at St James Theatre in Westminster next Thursday, alongside psychologist Kevin Dutton.

JON STEWART has been named the top pundit on American TV. In a new poll, the outgoing Daily Show host ranked highest for fearlessness and being the ‘most admired’. And half the respondents said they agreed with him on at least some issues. Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh came bottom.

AMY SCHUMER is set to tape her first comedy special for HBO. It will be recorded on May 29 at Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater, with Chris Rock directing. The show will air later this year.

Published: 8 May 2015