New show for ITV2

Mark Watson, Ellie Taylor and Richard Gadd are among the comics taking part in a new TV stand-up show in which they air their pet peeves about Christmas. 

ITV2 has commissioned a 90-minute one-off entitled The Great Xmas Rant to air next month.

Also taking part are comics Tom Davis, Stephen Bailey and Darren Harriott, while reality show celebrities such as Joey Essex and Chris and Kem from Love Island will take part in accompanying sketches.

Mike Benson, managing director of programme-makers Chalkboard TV said: ‘Most of us have a bugbear about the festive period and with The Great Xmas Rant, the nation’s favourite comedians and celebs will be given the chance to unleash their inner Grinch on the ITV2 audience — and will no doubt speak for many of us in the process.’

ITV’s Paul Mortimer, who commissioned the show, said the ‘comically alternative take on the festive season will no doubt amuse tired out shoppers and party-goers.’

The show is produced by Gina Lyons and directed by Ben Mallaby, This is Chalkboard TV’s second Christmas-themed commission following the three-part series The Office Xmas Party in 2014.

Published: 16 Nov 2017