...as if they were sports presenters

John Thomson and Jessica Knappett are to front a new ITV clip show – in the guise of two sports presenters.

The conceit of the six-part series Zone Of Champions is that the odd and funny footage unearthed all comes from obscure sports, such as cat long jump or owl rhythmic gymnastics.

Thomson and Knappett play Jack Bullman and Nicky Brimble, the host of the made-up sports show, which is being made by Sacha Baron Cohen’s production company Spelthorne Community Television.

Thomson said:   ‘I’m always amazed at what is captured on camera, there are some real belters in this show and I'm looking forward to sharing these clips with the viewers at home." 

Knappett added: ‘What surprised me most about working on Zone of Champions was just how many domestic pets have been overlooked as serious athletes until now. Brilliant television? You’ll never need to go outside again.’

The clips are taken from the internet, unusual TV moments and archive clips.

ITV entertainment commissioner Ben Kelly added: ‘ It’s a real pleasure to have John and Jess providing the comedic glue to this assortment of sports that don’t look like sports, but totally are sports. If you’ve ever wanted to see the finals of the world’s angriest goose competition or advanced canine gymnastics (regional heats) then Zone of Champions is the place for you.’

Made by: Spelthorne Community Television
Commissioned by: Ben Kelly, Commissioner, Entertainment at ITV
Executive producers: Tim Allsop and Andrew Newman
Series Producer: Mark Lucey.

Published: 28 May 2019