Beloved British actor Martin Clunes is making a welcome return to our screens in a familiar role, guest-hosting the popular BBC panel show Have I Got News For You.
A Triumphant BBC Return
The Doc Martin star is set to front the final episode of the programme's milestone 70th series. This appearance marks a significant moment for the actor, representing his 22nd time on the show and his 17th occasion taking the helm as guest host.
Fans can watch Episode 10 of the 70th series from 9pm on Friday, December 12. The episode will be available to view on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Familiar Faces and Fresh Laughs
Joining Clunes for the final episode will be comedian Phil Wang as a guest panellist. This will be Wang's 15th appearance on the long-running show.
The episode will, of course, feature the show's stalwarts, regular team captains Paul Merton and Ian Hislop. As always, they will be dissecting the week's biggest headlines, offering their unique brand of sharp, comedic political commentary as they compete against each other.
Beyond the Panel Show: The Future of Doc Martin
This panel show news follows another exciting announcement concerning the actor's most famous character. It was recently confirmed that Clunes will be returning to the world of Doc Martin through a new medical drama inspired by the original series, titled Best Medicine.
The original, much-loved ITV show ran for 10 seasons over 18 years, concluding in December 2022 with a final Christmas special. The finale saw Dr Martin Ellingham choose to remain in the village of Portwenn with his family, forgoing a new job in London.
In Best Medicine, which follows a doctor named Martin Best (Josh Charles) who moves from Boston to a quirky East Coast village, Clunes will not be reprising his lead role. Instead, he has been cast as the lead character's on-screen father, Dr Robert Best.
For those hoping for a full-scale revival of the original series, Clunes offered a dose of reality during an appearance on Good Morning Britain. When asked by presenter Charlotte Hawkins if Doc Martin might return, the actor quipped about his character's age, noting, "I'm almost at the age where a GP has to retire, do you see? 18 years in private medicine." He humorously deflected suggestions of a 'retirement years' or prequel series, effectively closing the door on that chapter while opening a new one with his upcoming guest roles.
