The Royle Family returning to screens for one-off special episode to mark sitcom’s 25th anniversary
THE Royle Family is set to return to TV this autumn – with a special documentary to celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary.
A refreshed version of the 2010 feature-length documentary The Royle Family: Down the Back of the Sofa will air on Gold.
After launching on BBC Two on 14th September 1998, the beloved sitcom became known for its unique approach to sitcom storytelling, breaking away from the traditional sitcom structure.
The show became a defining part of the 1990s, following the Manchester-based family, the Royles, sitting on their sofa and watching tv.
Starring Aherne and Cash with Ricky Tomlinson, Sue Johnston and Ralf Little, the show resonated with viewers with its relatable portrayal of family dynamics and garnered a loyal fanbase.
The show’s success also led to breakthroughs for cast members such as Sheridan Smith, Joanne Froggatt, and Jessica Hynes.
The new feature-length documentary will offer fans another chance to see interviews with the show’s stars and co-creators.
It will feature interviews from co-creators Craig Cash, the late Caroline Aherne and brand new insights from a number of celebrity fans, such as Diane Morgan and Rosie Jones.
Gold commissioning editor Jason Dawson said of the doc: “A quarter of a century! The Royle Family has without doubt left a permanent mark in television history and we’re delighted to have commissioned this documentary for the 25th anniversary.
“Working alongside Craig and the brilliant team at Phil McIntyre is such a pleasure, and we hope viewers will enjoy reliving this celebration of one of the nation’s most beloved shows.”
Gold’s channel director Gerald Casey added, “We absolutely love an anniversary on Gold, and we know our viewers love these nostalgic trips down memory lane just as much as us.
“It is an honour to have this retrospective documentary airing on Gold this September.”
This comes after Tomlinson and Johnston were reunited on screen on the latest series of Celebrity Gogglebox.
The pair are best known for their roles as the bickering couple Jim and Barbara in the BBC comedy, which acted as inspiration for the Channel 4 show.
It was also a reunion with star Cash, who took over as the narrator of Gogglebox following Aherne’s death in 2016.
Speaking about joining the show, Tomlinson said: “When it first aired Gogglebox was called ”the real Royle Family” so this is a full circle moment, Sue and I together again, in front of the box!”
Royle Family: Down the Back of the Sofa will air on Gold this September.
