Channel 4’s 4Skills and Northern Ireland Screen launch new comedy script writing initiative
Date Posted: February 20, 2025
Channel 4’s 4Skills, Channel 4 Comedy and Northern Ireland Screen are joining forces to fund half-hour comedy scripts, offering a major opportunity for both emerging and established talent to develop bold, distinctive comedy projects.
As part of the comedy lab, the Channel 4 Comedy team will brief qualifying production companies on the style and tone, providing valuable industry insight while meeting with local talent.
The briefing takes place today (Thursday 20th February), followed by an informal evening drinks event where comedy writers, directors, and talent will also have the chance to network.
Production companies are invited to pitch up to three ideas, each presented in a one-to-two-page treatment. The final deadline for pitch submissions is in April, allowing time for companies to refine or develop new ideas based on the briefing.
In May, Channel 4 and Northern Ireland Screen will select the scripts to be commissioned, with the possibility of a re-pitching round if more than three strong contenders emerge.
This opportunity is open to both new and established talent, with particular interest in partnerships that bring together fresh voices with more experienced creatives. Newer writers must be able to demonstrate a strong comedic voice and tone.
Channel 4 is looking for projects that fit alongside its biggest comedy hits, such as Peep Show, Derry Girls, Big Mood, Big Boys, Stath Lets Flats, The Inbetweeners, and Friday Night Dinner. Aspiring applicants should consider what makes their idea uniquely suited to the channel and its distinct brand of comedy.
Charlie Perkins, Head of Comedy at Channel 4, says: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with 4Skills and Northern Ireland Screen on our second Comedy Lab development scheme. In our remit to represent the length and breadth of the UK we’re currently underserved for original comedy ideas from Northern Ireland and it’s crucial that we’re increasingly connected with local talent both on and off screen to find these. We’re people-people so we can’t wait to meet lots of new faces this week in Belfast and beyond through this project, and get to work championing and developing some excellent people and projects.”
Kevin Blacoe, Head of Partnerships and Skills at Channel 4, says: “4Skills is committed to creating opportunities that support and develop talent from all backgrounds, ensuring the UK’s comedy landscape is as representative as possible. This partnership with Northern Ireland Screen is an exciting way to support both emerging and established comedy voices, providing meaningful industry access and support.”
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, says: “We are delighted to partner with Channel 4’s 4Skills to create this incredible opportunity for comedy writers in Northern Ireland. Our region has a wealth of comedic talent, and this initiative will provide the support and industry access needed to develop distinctive, high-quality comedy scripts. We look forward to seeing the fresh, bold ideas that emerge and helping to bring new voices to the screen.”
For more information, please visit: https://www.channel4.com/4producers/briefs/ni-screen-and-c4-comedy-lab
