'Sci-fi' comedy hits BBC2 schedules

Steve Coogan is to star in a one-off BBC2 comedy this Christmas.

The Alan Partridge star will appear in the show Cruise Of The Gods, one highlight of the channel's festive line-up.

Rob Brydon, from Marion and Geoff, will take the lead role, as the former hero of a cult Eighties sci-fi show.

It is one of the few surprises in the corporation's Christmas schedules.

Heading BBC1's line-up is a new feature-length Only Fools and Horses, alongside specials from Absolutely Fabulous, Alistain McGowan's Big Impression and French and Saunders.

While BBC2 boasts festive specials from The Kumars, Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Shooting Stars.

Arts documentary Arena will be focussing on radio comedy with a two-parter examining the all-time classic Just A Minute, now in its 35th year, and the instant hit Dead Ringers.

Director of Television Jana Bennett said: "Whatever your sense of humour, you can trust the BBC to deliver something special."

Published: 23 Nov 2002