John Hannah was refreshingly candid about his involvement in Channel 5's latest offering, Benidorm Is Murder. During Tuesday's episode of The One Show, the Scottish actor discussed filming the new series with presenters Alex Jones and Vernon Kay.
While he had positive words for the filming location and his co-stars, he was notably less enthusiastic about the financial compensation.
Filming in Gran Canaria
When Vernon mentioned the programme features several guest appearances, John responded: “Some great guests come in. In fact, we shot the third episode first. We shot that in Gran Canaria, actually.”
He elaborated: “The first episode was an Irish hen party, half a dozen terrific Irish actresses turned up and Trevor. A bunch of Irish actors turned up, and they all knew each other a bit.”
Describing the filming experience, he said: “It was October, cold back here [the UK], a good script, two weeks in the sun, having a laugh, they all knew each other, so there was a great bond there, a great chemistry there.”
The Pay Comment
The actor then revealed: “Simon and I were talking at the end of that episode, we were like, 'Wow, they've set the bar really high. There's something about a good script, a bit of sunshine, regardless of the pay... which wasn't the best, but anyway it doesn't matter.”
The studio erupted in laughter as Vernon could be heard reminding John that they were broadcasting live. He added: “I mean no disrespect, but it was Channel 5, you know.”
Actress Diane Morgan, who was on the sofa to promote her upcoming BBC programme Ann Droid, then weighed in, remarking: “Let's not get into money, John.”
He responded: “No, let's not because we're not doing it for the money, right? Of course not. It was brilliant, everyone came out. We were all getting paid.... a bit.”
The hosts continued to chuckle as John noted that everybody who took part clicked and got along brilliantly with each other.
About the Series
Benidorm Is Murder is an upcoming six-part comedy drama centred on a retired British detective who investigates tourist murders in Spain with the help of his true-crime-obsessed barmaid, Rosa (Carolina Bécquer).
Channel 5 have been contacted for comment.
An official synopsis for the programme states: “Using Dennis' real-world experience and showcasing Rosa's encyclopedic TV knowledge, each episode sees the duo tackling a new murder, whilst trying to stay on the right side of the Spanish cops.”
“As the bodies pile up, so do the guest stars, including Denise Welch (Waterloo Road, Tip Toe), Alistair McGowan (The Big Impression, Bleak House) and Tamzin Outhwaite (The Tower, Hotel Babylon).”
The One Show continues weeknights on BBC One from 7pm. Benidorm is Murder airs Thursday 30th July on Channel 5 from 9pm.
