UKTV have today (23rd of July) announced a new Murder, They Hope special entitled Apocalypse Slough, to be produced by Newcastle-based Schnoobert Productions alongside Tiger Aspect. The special will air on Gold this Autumn and follows the success of Christmas special, Blood Actually.
Johnny Vegas and Sian Gibson return asTerry and Gemma Bremmeralongside Sarah Hadland as Gemma’s wannabe influencer sister, Monica. The Bremmers were last seen in the Christmas special Blood Actually, which launched to 863K* viewers in December and starred Jane Horrocks, Martin Kemp, Robert Webb, Rose Ayling-Ellis and Sherrie Hewson.
Writer, creator, and executive producer, Jason Cook, said: “It’s so good to be back with Gemma and Terry, and this time Monica’s tagging along to increase the chaos! What an amazing cast we managed to get for this one, with some really fantastic performances. I can’t wait for everyone to see.”
Apocalypse Slough sees Gemma achieve her dreams of becoming an official, ball busting, kick ass investigator at the Serious Crimes Agency (SCA), whilst Terry is denied the dream thanks to his colourful criminal history. With this new strain on their relationship, they’re thrown in headfirst to crack a curious double murder at a local rugby club – whose members seem to have dark and disturbing secrets of their own. As Gemma leads them closer into the complex case, questions begin to arise about their partnership and the mysteries they uncover. If Gemma doesn’t pick up the pace, it could be game over for everyone; her and Terry included!
The standalone specialhas been commissioned for UKTV by Sarah Asante, commissioning editor for scripted comedy and ordered by Gerald Casey, channel director for Gold and Hilary Rosen, director of commissioning.
Sarah Asante said: “Following the success of Blood Actually, I am thrilled to bring back Sian, Johnny, and Sarah for yet another uproarious one-off instalment alongside the additional fresh and exceptional ensemble cast. Brace yourself, as Apocalypse Slough is set to take us on another intriguing romp, full of laughs and surprises delivered by Jason Cook and the Tiger Aspect team.”
Gerald Casey added: “I’m incredibly overwhelmed by the positive response viewers have shown for Blood Actually, allowing us to continue to deliver more killer comedy with an outstanding line-up of talent. I can promise that this one-off special will bring a guarantee of laughter and a murderously good time!”
Apocalypse Slough will air on Gold this September. Catch up on the previous series of Murder, They Hope on Sky, Virgin and NOW.