Creator's U-turn over quitting

ITV1 has commissioned a fifth series of Benidorm, after creator Derren Litten had a change of heart about quitting the show.

The future of the award-winning sitcom had been in doubt after Little announced in February that he would not be writing any more episodes.

But he has now agreed to write some of the new series with other ‘top comedy writers’.

The new series will go into production later this year, although it is not yet known when it will go out or how many episodes will bemade.

Earlier this week, Litten was approached on Twitter by Jackie Collins, who said her sister Joan wanted to make a cameo in the series.

Litten replied: ‘Joan Collins in Benidorm?! I ain’t gonna let anyone else write that. Looks like I’m coming back.’

An ITV spokesman said: ‘We're pleased to announce that your favourite holidaymakers will return for a fifth series of Benidorm that will start filming later this year.

‘We can also confirm Derren Litten will be back to write some of the new series.’

The fourth series ended last week with 5.8million viewers.

Published: 14 Apr 2011