Mark Bonnar and Ashley Jensen will lead the cast of Rambling, a new one-off sitcom for BBC iPlayer, BBC Scotland, and BBC One, according to announcements from the broadcasters and production team. Written by Iain Connell and Sharon Young, the 30-minute special follows a pair of unlikely travelling companions navigating the rural Scottish landscape. The production is handled by The Comedy Unit and was commissioned by BBC Scotland and BBC Comedy.
Cast and Characters: Order Meets Chaos on the Trail
According to the BBC, the sitcom pairs Gerry, played by Mark Bonnar, with Cat, played by Ashley Jensen. Gerry is described as a man of order who plans every step, while Cat is characterized by chaos who gets lost on the way to the car park. Gerry embarks on the walk to fulfill a promise to his recently deceased brother. Cat is flying solo after being thrown out of a walking group that was supposed to provide a fresh start.
As the characters walk and talk, they discover common ground. According to the writers, the project is a feel-good Scottish sitcom about putting your best foot forward, exploring themes of loss, loneliness, and the human need for connection.
Production Team and Background
Rambling is written by Iain Connell and Sharon Young, both known for The Scotts and Burnistoun. The production company is The Comedy Unit, with Rab Christie serving as executive producer. The special is directed by Ollie Parsons and produced by Iain ‘Noddy’ Davidson.
The project was commissioned for BBC Scotland by Louise Thornton and for BBC Comedy by Jon Petrie, prior to his departure. Commissioning editors are Gavin Smith for BBC Scotland and Navi Lamba for BBC Comedy.
Creative Vision and Reactions
Mark Bonnar stated that he is thrilled to work on the script, noting in a press release provided by the BBC: “I’ve never played someone quite like Gerry before and I can’t wait to get cracking! On top of that, to be reunited with the wonderful Ashley Jensen! Doesn’t get any better.”
Ashley Jensen described the script as being about “nothing and everything,” adding: “It’s smart, honest, poignant, moving and funny. It’s about loss, loneliness, and our need for connection.” Jensen also noted her early career beginnings with the BBC Comedy Unit, expressing delight in returning to the BBC and working with the crew in the Scottish elements.
Gavin Smith, Commissioning Editor at BBC Scotland, highlighted the sitcom’s banter and outdoorsy setting, while Navi Lamba, Commissioning Editor at BBC Comedy, pointed to the comedic dynamic of forcing unlikely people together.
Did you know? The lead actors, Mark Bonnar and Ashley Jensen, have both appeared in acclaimed television series including Catastrophe, alongside their individual credits in shows like Line of Duty, Shetland, and After Life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who stars in Rambling?
Mark Bonnar and Ashley Jensen star as the lead characters, Gerry and Cat.
Who wrote the sitcom?
The script is written by Iain Connell and Sharon Young.
Where can viewers watch Rambling?
The one-off special will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC Scotland, and made available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Who is producing the project?
Rambling is produced by The Comedy Unit, with Rab Christie as executive producer, Ollie Parsons as director, and Iain ‘Noddy’ Davidson as producer.
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