The Now Show. Image shows from L to R: Hugh Dennis, Steve Punt. Copyright: BBC
The Now Show

The Now Show

  • Radio comedy / stand-up
  • BBC Radio 4
  • 1998 - 2024
  • 466 episodes (64 series)

Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis present a mix of stand-up, sketches and songs in this popular topical comedy show for Radio 4. Also features Jon Culshaw, Marcus Brigstocke, Jon Holmes, Mitch Benn, David Quantick and more.

The Now Show. Image shows from L to R: Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis. Copyright: BBC

Key details

Genres
Comedy, Stand-Up
Broadcast
1998 - 2024
Channel
BBC Radio 4
Episodes
466 (64 series), plus 7 highlights specials
Creator
Bill Dare
Stars
Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis, Jon Culshaw, Marcus Brigstocke, Jon Holmes, Mitch Benn, David Quantick, Jane Bussmann and more
Writers
Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis, Marcus Brigstocke, Jon Holmes, Laura Shavin, Mitch Benn, Emma Kennedy, Jane Lamacraft and more
Producers
Katie Marsden, Colin Anderson, Ed Morrish, Julia McKenzie, Victoria Lloyd, Lyndsay Fenner, Alexandra Smith, Joe Nunnery and more
Company

Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis present a mix of stand-up, sketches and songs.

Marcus Brigstocke used to have a regular stand-up spot on the show, but with his busy schedule the stand-up section is now mainly delivered by a guest comedian. For a number of years the letters and emails were read out by Jon Holmes, and music came from Mitch Benn, however these slots are now taken by a revolving cast of comedians.

Jon Culshaw normally acts as guest presenter when one of the hosts can't make it. For example Hugh Dennis was absent from Series 41.

During the General Elections, the show re-names itself The Vote Now Show.

Catch-up

Additional details

Also known as
  • The Vote Now Show
Production
Studio

Website links

Broadcast details

First broadcast
Saturday 26th September 1998 at 6:15pm on BBC Radio 4
Next repeats
  1. Series 64, Episode 2: Saturday at 12:30pm on Radio 4
  2. Series 64, Episode 2: Monday at 11pm on Radio 4 Extra
Most recent repeats

Recording details

  • BBC Edinburgh Fringe venue, BBC Radio Theatre, Glee Club (Birmingham), Shaw Theatre and Venue Cymru - Normally recorded on Thursday evenings.
  • Zoom (Virtual) - Series 58
  • Pleasance Theatre (London) and The Playground Theatre - Series 61
  • RADA Studios, The Albany and Marylebone Theatre - Series 63