Two new comedy series for BBC One Scotland

BBC Scotland has commissioned two new comedy series for 2024…

First is the sketch show Stevens & McCarthy and the second is a sitcom The Chief, the latter a spin-off from the police comedy Scot Squad. Made by The BBC Comedy Unit, both series will film this year.

BBC Scotland’s Commissioning Executive, Gavin Smith:

“We hope audiences will enjoy this exciting double bill of very different comedies from BBC Scotland. In one West coast corner we have two of Scotland’s most exciting live comedy performers bringing an array of eclectic sketches and brand new female characters to the screen. And in the East coast corner we have one of Scotland’s most established male comedy talents spinning off a fan favourite character from Scotland’s Scot Squad comedy stable.”   

Following their popular BBC iPlayer short features, which launched in 2021 duo Stevens & McCarthy are back – this time with a four-part series. The half-hour sketch shows aim to spotlight the comedic talents of Gayle Telfer Stevens and Louise McCarthy – two of Scotland’s most popular performers – the new series will feature a rich variety of sketches, spoofs, skits and songs.

Written by and starring Louise McCarthy (The Scotts, Scot Squad) and Gayle Telfer Stevens (River City, Scot Squad), the four-part fast-paced comedy sketch show will feature a supporting cast with filming beginning at the end of January.

Louise: “We are really excited to be back with some Steven’s & McCarthy. It’s pretty much an all-girl team here and we are so thrilled to bring this girl power energy to your screens. We’ve got new sketches and some nods to the favourites from other series. Expect the usual madness from us two – bonkers characters and a good auld sing-a-long thrown in for good measure. There is something for everyone in this show!”

Gayle: “Brace yourself for the biggest female led comedy sketch show since the 90’s. Big, bold and better than ever Stevens & McCarthy are back! We’ve got great comedy characters, laughs a plenty and will showcase some of the best talent Scotland has to offer. Give it a swatch I think you’ll love it!”

Meanwhile in The Chief its a deep dive into the daily duties of Chief Commissioner Cameron Miekelson (played by Jack Docherty) from the Scottish Police Force. This four-part sitcom sees The Chief at work and at home dealing with colleagues, bams and family alike. As Miekelson wrestles with contemporary dilemmas and navigates workplace politics, he must do his best to remain relevant in an ever-changing world.

The Chief features a cast of regular co-workers and confidantes as well as his daughter, Ellen in the half-hour episodes.

Jack Docherty: “I’m delighted that The People’s Chief is back in a brand new sitcom. We find him still clinging to his job as the top dog, the big man, the numero uno in a modern, progressive Scottish Police Force. He’s desperate to prove that he’s still relevant in the world of office politics, culture wars, family and fatherhood. I love playing this character and can’t wait to unleash him once again on the great Scottish public.”

Both comedy programmes will air on BBC One Scotland and BBC iPlayer in 2024.