From the makers of Murder In Successville

Channel 4 has ordered a new improvised topical sketch series from the Murder In Successville producers.

Scarlett Moffatt will be the first guest on the show, titled Host The Week.

The commission follows a successful pilot earlier this year, as Chortle previously reported.

In each episode, the guest host will have to perform a number of unrehearsed items, with no idea what they are getting into.

Segments will involve them co-hosting a satirical news show, presenting a chat show, and overseeing a game show with real-life contestants. 

Channel 4 says: ‘Each segment will warmly celebrate the guest host’s life and career whilst also providing topical comedy.’

The show will feature a troupe of talented improvisers and character comedians – not yet named –  directed by Tom Parry from  sketch group Pappy’s. 

A series of three hour-long shows has been commissioned by Ed Havard, Channel 4’s head of events, entertainment & sport, and entertainment commissioner Tom Beck.

The other guest hosts have yet to be named.

Host The Week, originally described as 'Saturday Night Live meets immersive theatre’, will be made by Tiger Aspect.

Its joint managing director Ben Cavey said: ’It makes absolute sense that our next generation comedy entertainment show Host The Week has found its home at C4 who have always been at the forefront of distinctive and ground-breaking programme making.’

Havard added: ‘This hilarious and topical hybrid show will offer a unique televisual experience for viewers as anything can, and probably will happen. 

‘With the smash hit Murder in Successville, Tiger Aspect has an excellent track record in organised TV chaos and we hope to deliver something just as brilliant.’

The show – which was originally titled  Situation Room when it was being piloted – will be filmed as live in front of a studio audience and will start later this month.

Published: 7 Jun 2017