Playing a dead comedian

Johnny Vegas has joined the cast of Neil Gaiman’s fantasy series Anansi Boys – playing a dead comedian.

He takes the role of Morris Livingstone who ‘once upon a time was one of the most famous comedians in the UK. He died some years ago, but his presence lingers on.’

Vegas joins previously announced names such as Whoopi Goldberg, Malachi Kirby, Jason Watkins and Fiona Shaw in the Amazon Studios series, which is currently being filmed in Edinburgh.

Also just announced is Peep Show actor Paterson Joseph, who will be playing the chief of police; Josette Simon as another cop, and Jacqueline Boatswain as Mr. Noah.

Gaiman’s novel had previously been adapted by Radio 4, with Hi-Di-Hi’s Jeffrey Holland playing Morris Livingstone  in a cast that also included Lenny Henry and Jacob Anderson.

The six-episode series is set in contemporary London – although the story stretches to Florida, the Caribbean, and the mythical World Before Time. It revolves around Charlie Nancy who, on his father’s death. discovers he was the trickster god Anansi.

Published: 17 May 2022