Two of Ireland's leading television writers are joining forces for a brand-new sitcom. Written, directed and produced by former Hot Press contributor Graham Linehan and the multifaceted tour de force that is Sharon Horgan, a planned new sitcom entitled Motherland is currently in development – and has already snapped up by the BBC.
Motherland promises to be "a lighthearted exploration of the daily trials and tribulations of middle-class motherhood." Linehan's wife Helen Serafinowicz and English comedian Holly Walsh are also involved in the project. Motherland is a co-production between Linehan's Delightful Industries production company and Horgan's Merman outfit, with Linehan occupying the director's chair for the show.
Linehan is best known as the co-creator with Arthur Matthews of Channel 4's beloved Father Ted and as the writer/director of the hugely popular British comedy The IT Crowd. Horgan shone in her own right as the creator of Channel 4's superb Catastrophe in which she also starred, and goes global in the upcoming HBO series Divorce, starring Sarah Jessica Parker. Considering the combined achievements of the two principals to date, Motherland will definitely be one to watch.
Details have yet to emerge as to when the premiere will be – but once the date is revealed, we will be sure to let you know. Stay tuned!