The BBC has unveiled a first look at a new vampire comedy series that is set to captivate fans of shows like Wednesday and Being Human. Titled The Reluctant Vampire, the series is based on the books by the late comedy legend Eric Morecambe and promises to deliver a blend of humour and heart.
Plot and Characters
The story follows Val, played by Lenny Rush, who is struggling to meet the high expectations of his father Victor, portrayed by Tom Davis. Val harbours a significant secret: he is not actually a vampire but is, in fact, alive. The series explores Val's journey as he discovers his human side while navigating the pressures of his vampire family.
Val's mother Valeeta, played by Sian Clifford (Fleabag), is the only family member who knows his true identity and offers him support. His brother Vernon, played by Gabriel Nagy, is suspicious and constantly tries to foil him. The family dynamics are overseen by two gargoyles, voiced by Bill Bailey and Ross Noble, who provide commentary from their perches above the castle.
Cast and Crew
The ensemble cast includes Joe Wilkinson as Wilf the werewolf, Asim Chaudhry as the family's assistant Igon, and Charlie Cooper as a villager who opposes the vampires, alongside Esther Smith and Ellie-May Sheridan as his wife and daughter. The series is adapted by Rob and Neil Gibbons, who have crafted a sharp, character-driven sitcom.
Jon Petrie, BBC director of comedy, said: "The Reluctant Vampire is exactly the kind of distinctive comedy we're passionate about at the BBC. Rob and Neil Gibbons have brilliantly adapted Eric Morecambe's work into a sharp, character-driven sitcom that delivers both big laughs and genuine emotion. With the incredibly talented Lenny Rush in the lead role, we're confident this will become one of the standout comedies of the year."
Themes and Release
The BBC describes the series as "a heart-warming show about finding your own identity while longing to fit in, and the tensions between family life and social life, and the struggle between conformity and kicking out against the path that's been prescribed for you."
The Reluctant Vampire will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One later this year.
