Broadcaster to commission two pilot scripts

Channel 4 has launched a scheme to fund two half-hour comedy scripts from Northern Ireland.

Production companies are now being invited to pitch ideas, with the top two being chosen in May. 

It is open to both new and established talent, and is being partly funded by Northern Ireland Screen, which means the companies involved have to have a base there, plus permanent staff resident in the province. 

Aspiring applicants are also told to consider what makes their idea uniquely suited to Channel 4 and its brand of comedy.

Charlie Perkins, head of comedy at Channel 4, said: ‘We’re currently underserved for original comedy ideas from Northern Ireland and it’s crucial that we’re increasingly connected with local talent both on and off screen to find these.’

Richard Williams, chief executive of Northern Ireland Screen, added: ‘Our region has a wealth of comedic talent, and this initiative will provide the support and industry access needed to develop distinctive, high-quality comedy scripts. We look forward to seeing the fresh, bold ideas that emerge and helping to bring new voices to the screen.’

It looks set to be a good year for comedy in Northern Ireland as the BBC has chosen Belfast to be the location of its next Comedy Festival in May, featuring a raft of talks, panels, screenings and live comedy shows.

Previous such events in Newcastle, Cardiff and Glasgow have also been used to kick-start comedy development initiatives. The Scottish festival last year culminated in a pilot commission, two new production companies, two new development producers employed, a new digital pilot for BBC iPlayer, and six script commissions.

Full details of the Channel 4 and Northern Ireland Screen initiative are available here.

Published: 20 Feb 2025