British comedy favourites star in first look at new show based on beloved Eric Morecambe novels – on what would have been his 100th birthday

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The BBC has released a first look at its new comedy, The Reluctant Vampire, with photos and a short video clip. The show boasts a talented cast, including BAFTA-winning actor Lenny Rush.

This new sitcom follows Val, a young man who believes he’s a vampire, only to discover that’s not true. He then begins leading a secret double life. The show is based on writings by the late comedian Eric Morecambe and is written by Rob and Neil Gibbons, known for their work on Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa, with a starring role for Rush.

The show centers on Val as he adjusts to being more human, all while trying to live up to the demanding expectations of his very traditional vampire father, Victor (played by Tom Davis).

A new video released to celebrate what would have been Eric Morecambe’s 100th birthday starts with an introduction from comedian David Mitchell. It then shows a scene with the late actor trying to escape through a window, and features appearances from Ross Noble and Bill Bailey as gargoyles.

You can watch the clip for yourself below:

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Gary Morecambe, son of the late Eric Morecambe, recently shared with TopMob magazine that the new show remains faithful to the original material.

I’m so excited about this show! They’ve got the amazing Lenny Rush in it, and the brilliant Gibbons brothers – you know, the guys who worked on Alan Partridge – wrote some of the episodes. What’s really cool is they managed to keep the same feel and humor as the original, even while adding their own touch. It’s a real testament to their skill!

The series will also feature Gabriel Nagy from Extra Geography, playing Val’s brother Vernon, and Sian Clifford, known from Fleabag, as Val’s mother, Valeeta.

Joe Wilkinson, known for his role in After Life, will play Wilf the Werewolf. Asim Chaudhry, from People Just Do Nothing, will star as Igon, who works for the vampires.

The cast also includes Charlie Cooper, known for his role in “This Country,” as John, a villager; Esther Smith, from “Trying,” playing his wife Susan; and Ellie-May Sheridan (“Dodger”) as their daughter, Gertie.

Behind the scenes, Shane Allen is the executive producer, with Ali Marlow producing and Emily McDonald directing.

The Reluctant Vampire will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One later this year.

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Molly MossTrends Writer

Molly Moss writes about the newest happenings in television, movies, and other entertainment for TopMob. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and has contributed to major publications like The Guardian, The Times, and The Sun Online.

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2026-05-14 17:04