Steve Coogan

Steve Coogan: 'Partridge film is moving slowly'

Steve Coogan has admitted that the planned Alan Partridge film is still only in the early stages.

The BBC deserve an ambivalent shrug for The Rob Brydon Show, which is, at best, objectively "alright". Faint praise is the dullest weapon in the critic's armory, but it's all this lighthearted chat show deserves.

Last time Brydon presented something in this vein he was in character as hapless cuckold Keith Barrett of Marion and Geoff renown. This time he's being himself, the likeable, witty, waspish Welshman whose eagerness to please is as endearing as it is occasionally overbearing - during his opening "banter with the audience" segment, I thought his unfunny Pingu impression was never going to end.

There is, to its credit, something pleasingly old-fashioned about the programme's format. Oddly, what it reminded me of most was - pace Wogan and Harty - Knowing Me Knowing You with Alan Partridge, starring Steve Coogan. But whereas that was a parody of traditional chatter-tainment, this is the real, undemanding deal.

So, a few gags, a sycophantic chat with a showbiz chum - David Walliams doing his lazy faux-camp schtick - a self-indulgent duet with a musical hero - Tom Jones - and a showcase for an up-and-coming comic - Tom Deacon, a nondescript child. And, inevitably, as many impressions as Brydon can cram in. If Jones' involvement was anything to go by, expect future guests to include others the host can "do". Ronnie Corbett is probably ironing his cravat as we speak.

Interview: Rob Brydon unveils his new chat show

The comedian has just finished a run of his panel show Would I Lie To You?, started his own talk show, The Rob Brydon Show, and he's got The Trip, a new comedy with buddy Steve Coogan, in the pipeline.

A long overdue solo vehicle for the likeable Rob Brydon - one of our finest comedy actors (see his scene-stealing turns in Gavin & Stacey and supporting roles for the likes of Steve Coogan and Julia Davis), and also a gifted stand-up and impressionist (the latter of which he demonstrated hilariously in the 2005 film A Cock and Bull Story). The format is knowingly cheesy, with Brydon chatting in matey style to his main guest, before breaking off for a short set by a comedian and interlude from a musician - with whom the host is invariably tempted to join in.

Chat shows stand or fall by the quality of their guests and tonight's are top-drawer. Main conversationalist is "Dame" David Walliams, who discusses his marriage to model Lara Stone and obsession with James Bond, then reads from his recent children's book. Walliams also answer questions from Twitter users (token nod to being modern, there) and the studio audience - which sweetly includes his mother. The musical guest is Sir Tom Jones, who performs a song from his acclaimed gospel album Praise & Blame. The only weak link is the set by young stand-up Tom Deacon, but it would be churlish to complain about Brydon championing a rising comedian each week. At times this opening show has the slight awkwardness of a first date, but all in all, it's a comfortingly cosy and entertaining half-hour.

Phone hacking: Steve Coogan latest star to take action

Moves come over alleged phone hacking by News of the World.

Rob Brydon: the interview

The beloved uncle from Gavin and Stacey is moving on to a new incarnation as the king of chat. Rob Brydon talks about life on the road with Steve Coogan, being homesick in LA and why his lack of ambition has been his saving.

Pass notes No 2,838: Alan Partridge

Steve Coogan's DJ and former chatshow host is back for an online comedy series.

Simon Amstell, Larry David and the rise of the 'simcom'

From Simon Amstell to Steve Coogan to Trinny and Susannah, today's stars simply play exaggerated versions of themselves. Does it count as acting? Mark Lawson on the 'sim-com'

Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon are reunited... to do lunch

Comedians are cast as Observer restaurant writers in Michael Winterbottom's TV sitcom probing the world of foodies.

Steve Coogan returns with new comic creation - himself

Funnyman Steve Coogan is to return to TV with a new comic creation - himself.