ITV2 Commissions New Comedy Panel Show

LONDON: ITV has tapped STV Productions, with GroupM Entertainment, to produce a new comedy panel show for ITV2, Safeword.

The 7×45-minute series will begin airing in July. It will be hosted by Rick Edwards (Tool Academy) and feature regular captains Katherine Ryan (Have I Got News For You) and David Morgan (Sweat The Small Stuff). Each episode will see two teams, made up of a celebrity guest and two comedians, compete in a competitive ‘roast’ format. The only thing that can help the celebrities from stopping the scrutiny is using their 'Safe Word'.

Gary Chippington, the head of entertainment at STV Productions, said: “We’re thrilled to be working on a brand new comedy for ITV2. Rick, Katherine and David are huge talents, and we’re all looking forward to roasting some of the nation’s favorite stars.’’

Claire Zolkwer, ITV’s commissioning editor for comedy entertainment, added: “Rick’s love for celebrity culture paired with Katherine and David comedic talents is a perfect combination for a great, fun ITV2 watch.”