James Martin Christmas Special Heads to Food Network

LONDON: Scripps Networks Interactive has commissioned the two-part James Martin’s Christmas with Friends for broadcast on Food Network across the U.K. and EMEA.

James Martin’s Christmas with Friends will look on as the titular host creates festive dishes and is joined by celebrity friends and cooking stars, including famed British baker Mary Berry. The 2×60-minute episodes will air exclusively on Food Network in the U.K. on November 14 and 21 at 9 p.m. They are produced by Blue Marlin Television.

“Showcasing well-known British talent like James Martin on our platform has been a key focus this year, as we continue to establish Food Network as the leading global food, entertainment and lifestyle brand across EMEA,” said Kevin Dickie, the senior VP of channels for Scripps Networks Interactive in the U.K. and EMEA. “We’re really excited to be working with James. He’s a talent we know that Food Network viewers love.”

Martin noted: “I’m delighted to be working with Food Network on this Christmas show. Christmas is a time of year when food takes center stage for many, so I’m looking forward to celebrating some classic seasonal dishes and revealing some new festive food ideas, with an entertaining and eclectic mix of guests. It promises to be a lot of fun.”

David Nottage, executive producer at Blue Marlin Television, stated: “We’re thrilled to be working with the team at Food Network, and on such a lovely project too. We’re all foodies at Blue Marlin, and there’s no better time for foodies than Christmas! So we’re putting all our efforts into what promises to be a real Christmas treat. James has some wonderful recipes in store, and a really fantastic selection of guests who will keep us all entertained! There will be a lot of laughs and more than a few surprises for guests and viewers alike. Christmas starts here!”

“We were so pleased to be approached for this project, as we’ve long admired what Food Network has achieved in the U.K. and EMEA,” added Fiona Lindsay, the managing director at Blue Marlin Television. “We are very excited about this Christmas special and very much hope that it will be the start of a long and rewarding partnership with a group of people who clearly have a passion for food that matches our own!”