Chris Addison & David Baddiel Unite for Sky's Darkly Humorous New Crime Series

Oh, this is exciting news for anyone who loves their comedy sharp, their satire even sharper, and their British talent truly exceptional! Chris Addison, a name synonymous with some of the smartest, most incisive television of the past couple of decades – yes, we're talking about masterpieces like Veep and The Thick of It – is officially stepping back into the director's chair for a brand-new Sky Studios limited series. And here’s the kicker: it’s penned by none other than the multi-talented David Baddiel, marking his very first original drama series. Talk about a dream team!

The series, intriguingly titled Not Today, Tall Tales and Murder, sounds absolutely tailor-made for these two brilliant minds. Described as a "pitch black crime comedy," it plunges viewers into a seemingly idyllic, quaint English village where, of course, nothing is ever quite as it seems. The premise? A suspicious death – a local eccentric, naturally – ignites an investigation that’s sure to be riddled with dark humor, unexpected twists, and perhaps a touch of the absurd. One can only imagine the razor-sharp dialogue and brilliantly awkward situations Addison will bring to life from Baddiel’s script.

For fans of British comedy and drama, this collaboration feels like a real moment. Chris Addison, with a DGA award under his belt for his stellar work on Veep, has an undeniable knack for extracting comedic gold even from the most intense or politically charged scenarios. His directorial touch has graced other beloved shows too, including the wonderfully warm Trying and the groundbreaking Skins, not to mention his crucial role both in front of and behind the camera for The Thick of It. He truly understands the rhythm and nuance of smart, character-driven storytelling.

And then there's David Baddiel. If you’ve followed his career, you know he’s a true polymath: a best-selling author of both adult and children's books, a celebrated stand-up comedian, a witty presenter, and a seasoned writer. From his early days on The Mary Whitehouse Experience and Newman and Baddiel in Pieces, he’s consistently proven his unique voice. This pivot into an original drama series, especially one with such a deliciously dark comedic premise, is an incredibly exciting new chapter for him. It's a chance to see his storytelling prowess unfold in a fresh, extended format.

The project itself is being brought to life by Kate Norrish and Polly Williams from the production company 42, which adds another layer of seasoned expertise to the mix. Addison, Baddiel, and Gabriel Silver, a commissioning editor for Sky, will all serve as executive producers, ensuring the vision stays sharp and cohesive. We're looking at an early 2026 start for filming, so while we have a little wait, the anticipation is already building for what promises to be a truly distinctive and darkly hilarious addition to Sky's original programming slate. Get ready for a murder mystery that's anything but ordinary!