BCG Daily Friday 1st December 2023
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Features
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Press clippings

Genie review
Please put this dreadful comedy back in the bottle.
Kevin Maher, The Times, 1st December 2023
What does Saltburn say about class and privilege in the UK?
From searing commentary to narrative confusion, Emerald Fennell's lavish, shocking film has divided critics since its release. Now Guardian writers weigh in.
Charlotte Higgins, Rupert Neate, Sirin Kale, Jess Cartner-Morley, Gwilym Mumford and Danny Lavelle, The Guardian, 1st December 2023
Artist and Tutti Frutti writer John Byrne dies, aged 83
The artist and writer John Byrne, who created the acclaimed TV series Tutti Frutti, has died at the age of 83.
Craig Williams, BBC, 1st December 2023
John Byrne obituary
Playwright and artist who wrote the BBC series Tutti Frutti and Your Cheatin' Heart, and plays including The Slab Boys.
Michael Coveney, The Guardian, 1st December 2023
Monica Heisey: 'The UK's comedy legacy is being left to rot'
Can Smothered, a new Sky six-part drama by the Canadian Schitt's Creek writer, revive the beleaguered genre?
Susie Goldsbrough, The Times, 1st December 2023
Meera Syal: one director said I'd get the role if I slept with him
The writer and actress talks to Carol Midgley about harassment, her fears for TV comedy and why a sense of humour can save your life.
Carol Midgley, The Times, 1st December 2023
The 50 best TV shows of 2023 - 50 to 11
Featuring Rain Dogs (No. 50), The Change (No. 46) and Boat Story (No. 45).
The Guardian, 1st December 2023Aladdin pantomime at Hackney Empire
After 16 years starring in the Hackney Empire's annual panto - and now with a few years as director under his belt - it's beyond all possible doubt that Clive Rowe is the doyenne of dames. This year's production of Aladdin doesn't have any particularly unique concept and there's nothing remotely deep smuggled into Will Brenton's book, but it's no less entertaining for it. There are some elements that aren't the strongest and yet everything comes together in a very tasty pudding indeed, with Rowe sublime as ever as Widow Twankey.
Julia Rank, What's On Stage, 1st December 2023Videos
Podcasts
TV & radio

Breaking The News
Series 26, Episode 8Des Clarke is joined by Felicity Ward, Mark Nelson, Elaine Malcolmson and Liam Withnail.

My Mate's A Footballer
Series 1, Episode 3 - Patrick Bamford's 5-A-Side ClinicAn episode about transfers gets derailed as Joe asks Pat how to become a better player.

The Now Show
Series 63, Episode 5Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis present the week via topical stand-up and sketches. They're joined by David Eagle unpacking the Advent, Jessica Fostekew looking into the repeal of the New Zealand smoking ban, and an original song from Archie Henderson, performed with Becky CJ.

Have I Got News For You
Series 66, Episode 8Guz Khan hosts the satirical panel show, with Ross Noble and Janet Street-Porter joining Ian and Paul.

Two Doors Down
Series 7, Episode 2 - Cathy LovesA new bathroom is a big commitment, and Christine can't decide, driving Beth and Eric demented. Meanwhile, Cathy and Michelle bond over a boozy lunch, but will this new friendship last?

Breeders
Series 4, Episode 8 - No ControlPaul and Ally are on their way back from their holiday, Luke and Maya discuss Luke's future prospects when Maya's water breaks and goes into labour.

The Last Leg
Series 29, Episode 4Adam, Josh and Alex are joined by guests Harry Hill, Chris Packham and Jordan Gray.

The Graham Norton Show
Series 31, Episode 9 - Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks, Timothée Chalamet, CherCher says she is not a diva, Julia Roberts reveals the original dark side of Pretty Woman, Tom Hanks enthuses about moonwalking and Timothée Chalamet reveals how proud he is of Wonka.