New panel show isolates comedians from the world

Frank Skinner, Ed Byrne and Marcus Brigstocke have all agreed to be locked away for days as part of a new BBC Two panel game.

They are to be be contestants on The Bubble, which involves them being kept out of contact from the outside world for four days – then given a list of news stories that may or may not have happened while they were inside. Their job is to decide which are true and which are fictional.

David Mitchell hosts the show, which starts on February 19.

He said: ‘It's a damning indictment of the state of the world and our society that so many prominent and talented people are willing to isolate themselves from it, if only for a few days. But it's good news for The Bubble. My only worry is, “What if they refuse to come out?”’

Jimmy Mulville, managing director of producers Hat Trick says: ‘We are looking forward to bringing this popular game show format to the UK. Its originality, comic approach to current affairs and exploration of our culture's obsession with staying in touch make it a unique and appealing show.’

Skinner takes part in the first show with Reginald D Hunter and Victoria Coren; followed by Ed Byrne, Germaine Greer and Jon Richardson; Sue Perkins, Clive Anderson and Sarah Millican; Andy Hamilton, Marcus Brigstocke and Julia Hartley Brewer.

Versions of the show have already aired in Israel, Denmark and Poland.

Published: 2 Feb 2010