Sally Phillips has hinted at the potential return of the iconic 90s sketch show Smack the Pony. The 56-year-old actress and comedian appeared on Channel 4's Sunday Brunch on 28th June, where she revealed that a special reunion episode has been offered to the cast.
What Did Sally Phillips Say About the Comeback?
During her conversation with hosts Simon Rimmer and Tim Lovejoy, Phillips was asked about the possibility of Smack the Pony returning. She responded: "We've been offered a special. We did the Edinburgh festival last year and we did a kind of chat show. It did well, people liked it."
She added: "It was amazing actually, this sketch show that I wrote at 27, people knew the lines to that! It was amazing, it was really touching." However, she did not confirm when or where the special might air.
Smack the Pony: A Beloved 90s Sketch Show
Smack the Pony was a British sketch comedy series that aired on Channel 4 from 1999 to 2003. It starred Fiona Allen, Doon Mackichan, and Sally Phillips, with regular contributions from Sarah Alexander, Darren Boyd, and Cavan Clerkin. The show was praised for its sharp wit, female-fronted comedy, and blend of relatable observations with absurdist humour. Sketches often explored uncomfortable relationships, office politics, and everyday social scenarios, while others ventured into more unconventional territory.
Recurring highlights included mock dating agency clips and musical comedy sketches that typically ended each episode. The show's writing team later went on to create other successful comedies such as Green Wing and Campus.
Why Did Smack the Pony End?
In 2003, the stars of Smack the Pony decided not to return for another series, preferring to end the show while it was still popular rather than risk a decline in quality. The programme ran for four series and remains a cult favourite.
Other News from Sally Phillips
On Sunday Brunch, Phillips also received congratulations after it was announced that her partner, Ian Pilcher, won gold at the World's Original Marmalade Awards. She shared the news on Instagram with the caption: "Congratulations my love!"
One viewer commented on X: "I'm actually enjoying #SundayBrunch today and Sally Philips is a legend. Should just have her talking for the whole show."
Sunday Brunch airs Sundays from 10am on Channel 4.
