New Comedy Announced For Channel 4

Channel 4 has announced the commission of a new comedy pilot, The Circuit, which unveils the hilarity – and horror – of social engagement.

Gabe (Adeel Akhtar) and Nat (Eva Birthistle) have left behind their old life and moved to an area where people seem to oscillate somewhere between highly-strung and psychopathic. They go to a dinner party, hosted by neighbour Helene (Victoria Hamilton) and her husband Sasha (Tobias Menzies), with fellow prisoners Marty (Nicola Walker) and her girlfriend Angie (Desiree Akhavan). The Circuit also stars Paul Ready as Danny.

The pilot was commissioned by Channel 4 and is produced by Clelia Mountford for Merman. It was written by Sharon Horgan and Dennis Kelly, who also serve as executive producers.

Phil Clarke, Channel 4's head of comedy, said: "The pitch for The Circuit was irresistible. The premise – that everyone hates going to dinner parties but goes anyway – is a great starting place for a comedy. Plus, the prospect of a script from Sharon Horgan and Dennis Kelly, writing together again for the first time since Pulling, was incredibly exciting. The script didn't disappoint, and I am delighted that we are now making a pilot."

Rachel Springett, comedy commissioner for Channel 4, added: "We can't wait to see this stellar cast breathe life into Dennis and Sharon's fabulous script. It’s a very exciting project which we are thrilled to be making with them."

Clelia Mountford, Founder and MD for Merman, said: "We're delighted to be working with Channel 4 on the longest dinner party ever. We just hope they'll bring the wine."

Dennis Kelly and Sharon Horgan commented: "It has taken just 10 short years for us to agree to work together again. It was a mistake."

www.channel4.com

(JP/MH)