Jack Dee to front entertainment series for Sky Atlantic

Who would have thought the world entertainment and grumpy-imaged Jack Dee would ever go hand in hand. The two worlds collide with new Sky Atlantic series Don’t Sit In The Front Row.

Created by two former producers of BBC satirical quiz show Have I Got News For You the new format will see deadpan Dee joined by a host of comedians to create a what aims to be a refreshing new programme with no teams, no quiz and a winner from the studio audience.

“The spontaneity of the audience interaction is what makes Don’t Sit In The Front Row so exciting. The combination of our presenter Jack Dee, the other comics, plus members of the public is recipe for a great new show.” Says Sky Commissioning Editor, Entertainment, Antonia Hurford-Jones.

Don’t Sit In The Front Row will see five members of the public volunteer to sit in the Front Row, with their lives providing the raw material for the comics. The twist is while Dee knows everything about the Front Rowers the panel knows nothing, creating the perfect opportunity to probe into their life stories in search of laughs.

Acting Channel Director of Sky Atlantic HD, Naomi Gibney adds: “I’m really excited that JACK DEE has joined the comedic tour de force coming to Sky Atlantic HD this summer which also includes Kathy Burke, Russell Brand, Julia Davis, Armando Iannucci, Adam Buxton, and Ronna and Beverly. To now add Jack to this incredible line-up continues to strengthen Sky Atlantic’s comedy ambitions.”

The premise of the show is so simple an ITV fan could understand it. Sky say the more comedy material the Front Rowers provide the stand-ups, the longer they’ll last. As the panellists get to know more about the contestants, they will then have to decide who to eliminate at the end of each round. The last Front Rower standing will be crowned with the Front Row Golden Chair Award.