Actress Sally Phillips has confirmed the potential return of the iconic 90s sketch comedy series Smack the Pony during an appearance on Channel 4's Sunday Brunch on June 28. The 56-year-old star, known for her role in Bridget Jones, shared that the show's cast has been offered a special revival after a successful live show at the Edinburgh Festival last year.
Return of a Cult Classic
Phillips, alongside co-stars Fiona Allen and Doon Mackichan, fronted Smack the Pony, which aired from 1999 to 2003 on Channel 4. The show was renowned for its sharp, female-led comedy blending relatable observations with surreal humour. When asked about a comeback, Phillips told presenters Simon Rimmer and Tim Lovejoy: "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 specify when or where the special would air.
Legacy of Smack the Pony
The show quickly became a cult hit for its unique blend of awkward relationships, workplace rivalries, and offbeat storylines. Recurring sketches included spoof dating agency videos and musical parody performances that closed each episode. The writing team later created acclaimed comedies such as Green Wing and Campus. In 2003, the leads decided to end the series while it was still popular, preferring to quit on a high note rather than risk declining quality.
Viewer and Personal Highlights
Phillips' appearance on Sunday Brunch delighted fans, with one viewer posting on X: "I'm actually enjoying #SundayBrunch today and Sally Philips is a legend. Should just have her talking for the whole show." Beyond the show's return, Phillips received congratulations on air after 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!"
Sunday Brunch airs Sundays from 10am on Channel 4.
