Filming starts on Naked Apes

Kayvan Novak and Rhys Thomas are to star in Channel 4’s new comedy-drama Naked Apes.

Filming has just begun in Leeds on the six hour-long episodes, based around a team of world-weary paramedics.

The script, created by Curse of Steptoe writer Brian Fillis was inspired by paramedic Tom Reynolds' book, Blood, Sweat and Tea.

Bellamy's People star Thomas plays the misanthropic Stuart, while Fonejacker Novak is a lothario plagued by self-doubt that the girls he sleeps with only do so because, as a Muslim, he seems exotic. The third member of the ambulance crew is Jack-the-lad Ashley, to be played by Richard Madden.

The show – which will air this summer – has been paid for by the money released from the cancellation of Big Brother.

Channel 4’s head of drama, Camilla Campbell called it an ‘irreverent and provocative comedy drama’.

It will be the second comedy based around paramedics to air in recent months. BT advert star Kris Marshall and comedian Karen Taylor appeared in BBC Three pilot DOA in October.

Published: 11 Feb 2011