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BBC News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Two Doors Down returns for Christmas
Multi award-winning Scottish sitcom Two Doors Down is set to return with a new Christmas special. Produced by BBC Studios Comedy Productions it will mark two years since the last series aired. The residents of Latimer Crescent will congregate at Beth (Arabella Weir) and Eric's (Alex Norton) house to celebrate Christmas. The neighbours are all back: Christine (Elaine C Smith), Cathy (Doon Mackichan) and Colin (Jonathan Watson), Alan (Graeme Stevely) and Michelle (Joy McAvoy), plus Beth and Eric's son Ian (Jamie Quinn) and his fiancé Gordon (Kieran Hodgson). Two Doors Down started as a one-off special in 2013. Created and written by Simon Carlyle and Gregor Sharp, there have been seven series and three previous Christmas specials. The comedy has seen a steady growth in audiences since the series began, from 1.3m* on BBC Two in 2016 to a 28 day audience average of 2.8m** for the last series, after it moved to BBC One. It has won many awards, including an RTS Scotland Award for Best Comedy in 2024 and 2017, and BAFTA Scotland Best Actress awards for Doon Mackichan in 2024 and for Elaine C. Smith in 2018. Gregor Sharp, who has written the new Christmas special, says: 'It's really exciting to be revisiting Latimer Crescent with all the regular cast for this new episode. Christmas is a time for getting together with friends and family and then becoming low level irritated by them so it feels like they're the perfect group to celebrate the season with.' BBC Director of Comedy Jon Petrie adds: 'There's something comforting about having the neighbours round for Christmas, even if they bring minor chaos. Gregor and the gang bring the warm laughs, sly digs and brilliantly petty moments that make Two Doors Down such a cracking comedy. Expect it to sparkle on BBC iPlayer and BBC One faster than Cathy can pop a prosecco.' Josh Cole, Head of Comedy, BBC Studios Productions, and Steven Canny, Executive Producer, say: 'We're so pleased to be returning to Latimer Crescent and can't wait for the audience to be back in Beth and Eric's for another tortuous Christmas. Gregor and Simon created a brilliantly funny show that has an outstanding cast of memorable and loveable characters and we're hugely looking forward to seeing them torment each other again.' Louise Thornton, BBC Scotland's Head of Commissioning says: 'I'm delighted to be working with our network comedy colleagues to bring Two Doors Down back to our screens for a festive special. It holds a very special place in the heart of our audiences and we're looking forward to seeing what Christmas treats will be unwrapped with our friends at Latimer Crescent.' Watch Two Doors Down on BBC iPlayer and add to your Watchlist Two Doors Down (1 x 30) is a BBC Studios Comedy production for BBC One, BBC Scotland and BBC iPlayer. It is written by Gregor Sharp. The director is Ben Gosling Fuller and the producer is Mark Bignell. It was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Director of BBC Comedy and Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning for BBC Scotland. The executive producers are Steven Canny and Josh Cole for BBC Studios. Commissioning editors for the BBC are Seb Barwell and Gavin Smith. BBC Studios are handling global sales. * BARB 28 day consolidated data source ** BARB 28 day 4 screen as viewed data source MJ Follow for more
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Two Doors Down's shock return confirmed as BBC reveal fresh details
TELLY bosses have confirmed that hit sitcom Two Doors Down is coming back for a Christmas special. The comedy favourite was shelved after the last series following the tragic death of co-creator Simon Carlye. 2 But The Scottish Sun exclusively revealed in March that the sitcom would be making a shock comeback to be screened over the festive period. Now the BBC has confirmed the residents of Latimer Crescent will be back on screens in December. The whole gang will congregate at Beth (Arabella Weir) and Eric's (Alex Norton) house to celebrate Christmas 2025. The neighbours are all back, including sweary Christine (Elaine C Smith), Cathy (Doon Mackichan) and Colin (Jonathan Watson). Meanwhile, Alan (played by Grado aka Graeme Stevely) and Michelle (Joy McAvoy), plus Beth and Eric's son Ian (Jamie Quinn) and his fiancé Gordon (Kieran Hodgson) complete the neighbourly group. Gregor Sharp, who has written the new special, says: 'It's really exciting to be revisiting Latimer Crescent with all the regular cast for this new episode. "Christmas is a time for getting together with friends and family and then becoming low level irritated by them so it feels like they're the perfect group to celebrate the season with.' Two Doors Down started as a one-off special in 2013. Created and written by Simon and Gregor, there have been seven series and three previous Christmas specials of the hugely popular show. BBC Director of Comedy Jon Petrie added: 'There's something comforting about having the neighbours round for Christmas, even if they bring minor chaos. Two Doors Down star in unearthed Kids Say Funniest Things clip on anniversary "Gregor and the gang bring the warm laughs, sly digs and brilliantly petty moments that make Two Doors Down such a cracking comedy. "Expect it to sparkle on BBC iPlayer and BBC One faster than Cathy can pop a prosecco.' And Josh Cole, Head of Comedy at BBC Studios Productions, and Steven Canny, Executive Producer, say: 'We're so pleased to be returning to Latimer Crescent and can't wait for the audience to be back in Beth and Eric's for another tortuous Christmas. "Gregor and Simon created a brilliantly funny show that has an outstanding cast of memorable and lovable characters and we're hugely looking forward to seeing them torment each other again.' Louise Thornton, BBC Scotland's Head of Commissioning, meanwhile said: 'I'm delighted to be working with our network comedy colleagues to bring Two Doors Down back to our screens for a festive special. "It holds a very special place in the heart of our audiences and we're looking forward to seeing what Christmas treats will be unwrapped with our friends at Latimer Crescent.'
Daily Record
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Pride of Scotland's top ten magical moments
We reveal our People's Oscar's most memorable moments as the nation's unsung heroes are honoured It was a night that had everything - even two dogs wearing tuxedos. The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards with P&O Cruises saw a host of stars turn out to recognise the courage and selfless determination shown by the nation's unsung heroes. Hosted by Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev Kohli, the glittering event at Glasgow's Hilton was an uplifting showcase of everything that is good about Scotland. Celebrities including Succession star Brian Cox, Gladiator Sheli McCoy and footballers Billy Gilmour and Jack Butland were queuing up to sing the praises of the inspirational winners at our 'People's Oscars.' Here are ten of the most magical and memorable moments from the night. BGT finalist raising the roof Vinnie McKee opened the show with the rousing version of Proclaimers' hit 'I'm Gonna Be (500 miles) which earned him Simon Cowell's golden buzzer in the Britain's Got Talent auditions. The 29-year-old holiday park entertainer from Ruchazie, Glasgow, set the tone for the whole evening with his soulful and uplifting voice which had the audience on their feet. Vinnie said: 'Pride of Scotland was my first performance since the BGT final and getting a standing ovation is a moment I will never forget. 'It was such an honour and a privilege to open the show and I felt humbled to be asked to be part of such a special night.' Brian Cox saluting community heroes There were audible gasps when the Succession star nipped in to present Stenhousemuir shopkeepers Asiyah and Jawad Javid with their Special Recognition award. The couple who donated more than £100,000 of food and medical assistance to people in their community since the pandemic were left speechless when he surprised them on stage. The Hollywood actor, who is busy rehearsing for a new play in his hometown of Dundee, said: 'What an amazing couple. Scotland's sense of community is what keeps this nation great. This evening as always has been totally overwhelming and uplifting.' Ups & Downs steal the show The theatre group made up of young people with Down's Syndrome and their siblings brought an extra helping of joy to the night. After picking up the P&O Cruises Inspiration award from Corrie actor Liam Bairstow, Strictly star Dr Punam Krishan and singer Nathan Evans, the incredible group performed a spellbinding rendition of 'This is Me' from hit movie 'The Greatest Showman.' The enchanting group spent the rest of the evening hugging guests, signing autographs and spreading joy wherever they went thanks to their infectious personalities. Ellis Leggatt, from Ups and Downs said: 'It has been the best night ever. We are all so so happy and proud of what we have achieved.' Teenager of Courage gifted with a guitar Georgie Hyslop, 16, who is battling cancer but has channelled her energy into helping others despite her condition, is a massive fan of chart topper James Herriott. So her face was an absolute picture when he gifted her one of his Fender guitars in the press room after the awards. The teenager, who has raised more than £51,000 to help other cancer patients, was overcome with emotion when her musical hero surprised her. James, whose album 'Don't Tell the Dog,' got to number one in the UK charts said: 'Georgie is the strongest person I have ever met. She is the very definition of courage and being here to present her with her award is the least I can do.' Speirs family's Caribbean surprise Duncan, Caroline and Jenna Speirs who run Calum's Cabin - a charity that provides holidays for terminally ill children and their families - won a cruise in a surprise giveaway. The selfless family, who rarely have time to go on holiday, were dumbstruck when they were revealed as the winners of P&O Cruises incredible prize. The trio, who are off on a 14 night cruise around the Caribbean in November, can't wait to catch some winter son on the other side of the world. Caroline said: 'As if winning a Pride of Scotland Special Recognition award wasn't enough already… Duncan nearly had to pick me off the floor I was that shocked and overwhelmed.' Dogs in tuxes Last year there was a little pony in a kilt but on Monday night it was two dogs in tuxedos that were the talk of the red carpet. Troy the fox red golden retriever looked dapper in his dickie bow as he accompanied owner Stewart Miller, winner of the Outstanding Bravery award. Troy was presented with a special dog tag after aiding Stewart in the rescue of a woman who was drowning in the River Tay during a storm. Trainee assistance dog Blu, who belongs to King's Trust Young Achiever Ashleigh, was also sporting a jazzy tux and became a fan favourite with the guests. Gladiator Sabre hailing Young Fundraiser Sheli McCoy told seven-year-old Theo Hardie he was a real life Gladiator after running 100 miles to raise money for his little brother's wheelchair. The weightlifting champion said she had even come up with a name for him - 'Centurion' - as a nod to him completing his incredible fundraising challenge. Sheli said: 'Theo is a real life Gladiator - his strength, determination and empathy for others makes him a champion in my eyes. The bond he has with his gorgeous little brother is very special. He has the heart of a warrior and he is only seven.' First Minister honours Sir Chris Hoy Scotland's First Minister John Swinney hailing cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy as Scotland's Champion had everyone reaching for the tissues. The FM said the six time Olympic gold medallist, who is refusing to let his terminal cancer diagnosis get him down, is a legend both in and out of the saddle. Swinney said: 'Sir Chris is an absolute sporting legend who has achieved so much but then in the face of adversity has demonstrated the strength and resolve which is of course so characteristic of all of the Pride of Scotland winners.' Red carpet malfunction Love Island's Paige Turley stayed calm despite suffering from a wardrobe mishap in the taxi on the way to the event. The singer, who was hosting this year's Red Carpet Live alongside Stevie Jukes of Saint Phnx, gasped after discovering her long sequin gown had split at the bum. But Paige took it all in her stride and kept on talking while a member of the crew sewed her back into her dress. She said: 'It was my boyfriend who spotted the split. Thank goodness we got it fixed before folk started to arrive. Pride of Scotland is my favourite event of the year.' Grand Finale The inspirational show was rounded off with hosts Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev Kohli inviting all the winners to return to the stage. There was a cocophony of cheers and a ten minute standing ovation for the incredible unsung heroes, who continued to party with the stars into the wee small hours. Elaine C Smith said: 'These awards are a reminder to everyone that there is still so much good in the world with folk looking out for their neighbours and going above and beyond to help others in their communities. 'The room was filled to the rafters with 'angels' who are quietly making a massive difference to the world. Seeing them all together on the the stage at the end lifted my soul and warmed my heart.'
STV News
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- STV News
Two Doors Down star teases show's return with Christmas special
Two Doors Down star Kieran Hodgson has teased the return of the sitcom in the form of a Christmas special. The BBC One comedy stars the likes of Elaine C Smith and Grado, with the most recent episode airing in November 2023. The show's co-creator Simon Carlyle died at the age of 48 in August, shortly after filming finished on the recommissioned seventh series of the show. The series is set around the residents of the fictional Glasgow suburb Latimer Crescent. Hodgson, who plays Gordon in the series, told Scotland Tonight there has been no official announcement on a Christmas special. But the comedian teased there may be some filming this year. He said: 'I cannot possibly say things I can't possibly say…but I might be doing some filming in the next couple of months I don't know. 'We're like a family, it's great to reunite as we do socially. Were we to get back together there would be lots of love, happy memories and desire to make even more memories.' Kieran will also take his new show Voice of America to this year's Edinburgh Fringe in stand-up form. He added: 'This time I'm grabbing the mic and getting in your face in a very polite way. 'The story of the show is looking at this huge thing that is America with a little bit of a silly slant.' Watch the full interview on Scotland Tonight at 10.50pm on Wednesday on STV and STV Player. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
The Herald Scotland
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Scotland's best pantomime to be honoured for first time
Theatre critics have agreed to recognise festive shows after nearly 20 years of their annual awards with a new 'outstanding pantomime' prize. They have hailed Scotland as 'the natural home of pantomime' thanks to the long history of star performers like Stanley Baxter, Jimmy Logan, Andy Gray and Gerard Kelly, as well as modern favourites including Elaine C Smith and Johnny McKnight. Read more: The new prize will recognise 'the best overall panto' produced in Scotland each year. And the panto award will be sponsored by one of Scotland's leading ice cream producers, Mackie's. The prize will be presented for the first time at the annual Critics Awards for Theatre in Scotland (CATS) at their annual ceremony, which is being staged in June at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh. Elaine C Smith was recently honoured for her outstanding contribution to pantomime productions. (Image: Andrew Billington Photography) Michael Cox, co-convenor of the CATS judging panel, said: 'Scotland has long been considered the natural home of pantomime, from the early-20th-century music hall productions to the heyday of Stanley Baxter, Rikki Fulton, Jimmy Logan, Una McLean and Johnny Beattie, who then passed on the baton to acclaimed performers such as Elaine C Smith and the late Gerard Kelly and Andy Gray. 'In recent times, writers and performers such as Forbes Masson and Johnny McKnight have further added to Scotland's panto reputation by rethinking the artform for the 21st-century. 'Our new award recognises the breadth of talent that goes into making the perfect panto.' Co-convenor Mark Brown added: 'The judges are excited to add the category of outstanding pantomime to our annual awards. 'We are grateful to Mackie's – a Scottish company whose ice cream is so closely associated with a trip to the pantomime – for sponsoring the inaugural panto award.' Stuart Common, managing director of Mackie's, said: 'We are proud to sponsor the very first Outstanding Pantomime award at the Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland. 'Pantomime and interval ice cream go hand in hand, making up a cherished part of the Christmas tradition for families across Scotland.' Tickets for the awards ceremony, which is open to the public, go on sale on May 1 from the Traverse Theatre website. The new award for best Scottish pantomime has been announced weeks after Elaine C Smith was honoured for outstanding achievement at the UK-wide Pantomime Awards. Johnny McKnight, one of Scotland's best-known panto creators, delivered a prestigious lecture at Glasgow University in January on his long-time involvement with festive shows dressed in the costume of his character Dorothy Blawna-Gale, from his show The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
