Mitchell & Webb's Ambassadors to return as a drama?

Tuesday 10th June 2014, 10:07am

Ambassadors. Image shows from L to R: Neil Tilly (Robert Webb), Keith Davis (David Mitchell). Copyright: Big Talk Productions / That Mitchell & Webb Company

Amabassadors, the TV comedy starring David Mitchell and Robert Webb, could return for another series, but as a straight drama.

The Radio Times reports that BBC Two is not going to commission another series in its current comedy-drama format, but production company Big Talk are reportedly awaiting a decision from new channel controller Kim Shillinglaw about reformatting the show, with more of a focus on the serious elements in the premise.

Co-written by James Wood, who created BBC Two's hit sitcom Rev, Amabassadors launched in October last year and ran for three hour-long episodes. It focused on a British embassy operating in the fictional country of Tazbekistan, a volatile and corrupt region overseen by a dictator.

The show was presented as a comedy drama, with David Mitchell playing Keith Davis, the newly appointed British Ambassador, and Robert Webb as local expert and right hand man, embassy official Neil Tilly. The show also starred Keeley Hawes as the Ambassador's frustrated wife.

Reviews for the show were mixed, with The Independent pointing out the programme had a great cast but was "unlikely to earn our lasting affections" and The Guardian noting "the funniest bits are almost incidental".

It is understood the writers and cast are keen to make more, but are still awaiting a decision from commissioners. Speaking on Classic FM last month, Robert Webb confirmed he and Mitchell would be interested in reprising their characters if given a chance.

The BBC has yet to make an official statement as to the future of the programme.

Robert Webb is currently starring in the Jeeves & Wooster stage show in London, which has now won an Olivier Award. Meanwhile David Mitchell is involved in various projects, including writing a new book. Together, they are also awaiting to film the final series of Peep Show, which is expected to be broadcast next year.

Below is a video going behind-the-scenes on the first series of Ambassadors. Mitchell & Webb, and writers James Wood and Rupert Walters, explain the show's format:

View this clip on the BBC website

Share this page