ATV Choice: Absolutely Fabulous

Absolutely FabulousIt’s the GOLD channel premiere of Absolutely Fabulous’ most recent outing with three specials which were produced in 2011 to mark two decades since the show launched on BBC One.

Twenty years after Bolly-swigging best pals Edina and Patsy first staggered onto our screens, and six years since their last appearance, Jennifer Saunders, Joanna Lumley and Julia Sawalha returned in 2011 in all their dysfunctional glory.

A homecoming at the Monsoon household leads to a life-changing experience for one of the gang, raising questions of identity that could involve a certain person owning up to her real age – if she can remember it, that is. (Look out for a guest appearance by The Killing star Sofie Gråbøl)

The second special, aired in 2012, sees Edina’s client list getting shorter by the day, and to make matters worse, her daughter despises her. So when she meets a famous French film star whom Saffy hugely admires, she believes the best way to earn back some respect – and increase her income at the same time – is to sign the actress as a client. The only problem is, the woman’s talents turn out to be rather questionable.

The final edition from 2012 sees, Edina decide to rent her house to a Hollywood A-Lister during the Olympic Games, whilst she is still living there along with Saffy, Mother, and Bubble. Patsy helps Eddy into her body suit to look suitable for her guests. With age catching up with Eddy she feels the doors are closing on her, Eddy is annoyed to discover that Stella McCartney’s shop is closed to her. To add to her misery Bo and Marshall arrive to stay for the Games too.

The first two of the Absolutely Fabulous, 20th Anniversary Specials, can be seen tonight (Tuesday 9th April), from 9pm on GOLD. The third is yet to be scheduled.