Sky to develop original British comedy

Hot on the heels of the news Sky have secured the rights to every HBO show for the next five years, the satellite broadcaster have also announced their commitment to original British comedy.

The broadcaster is set to invest millions into developing UK comedy talent, and has already financed a new show from Ruth Jones (Gavin & Stacey) called Stella. Sally Lindsay (Coronation Street) will also take the lead in Mount Pleasant, a comedy about a thirtysomething woman's "not-so-perfect-life" in Manchester; This Is Jinsy will revolve around the peculiar residents of the fictional island of Jinsy; and a series of autobiographical shorts called "Little Crackers" will also air at Christmas, featuring comedy talent like Dawn French, Stephen Fry and Catherine Tate.

Lucy Lumsden, Sky's Head Of Comedy:

"It's been an exciting time spreading the good news about Sky's investment in comedy and I'm delighted that we've been able to attract a wealth of comedy talent. Sky's investment in original comedy is testament to our long-term commitment to original and innovative programming."

Lumsden made her name working for the BBC until June 2009 and is credited with developing shows like Gavin & Stacey, Little Britain and The Mighty Boosh.

Stuart Murphy, Director of Programmes for Sky 1, Sky 2 and Sky 3:

"[Lucy] is the leader in her field and has made sure that customers benefit from her considerable experience and brilliant sense of humour. This really will be content worth paying for."

This is great news. I'm so glad Sky are beginning to use their increasing muscle and money to create original content, rather than rely on sports, movies and US imports. Their similar initiative to fund original drama gave us Skellig, The Take, Going Postal, and Strike Back, so hopefully similar successes awaits them in comedy.