Amandaland star teases Christmas special reunion for Absolutely Fabulous icons as Jennifer Saunders joins cast

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We’re relaxing in a comfortable country house north of London, enjoying hot chocolate next to a warm fireplace. The table is set for dinner, and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree is twinkling. Although it’s only mid-October, the atmosphere feels wonderfully festive.

Amanda, who viewers may remember from the show Motherland, is celebrating Christmas with her mother, Felicity, at her Aunt Joan’s house. It’s a delightful reunion for actresses Lucy Punch, Joanna Lumley, and Jennifer Saunders, who famously starred together in Absolutely Fabulous and haven’t worked together in nine years.

Working with Joanna is fantastic – she’s both intelligent and hilarious, and instantly makes a good impression on everyone,” Punch shared with RT. “Adding Jennifer as another supportive, motherly presence is just wonderful. I grew up watching French and Saunders constantly, and now I get to work with them both – it’s a dream come true!”

Working with Jennifer isn’t intimidating at all. She’s incredibly creative, constantly brainstorming ideas and suggesting fresh material, and she’s very supportive and shares her insights freely.

All this cheerful Christmas spirit feels very different from Amanda’s normal life in South Harlesden – or “SoHa,” as she calls it. Her friend Anne (played by Philippa Dunne) always joins her, referring to the area as “that place near Wormwood Scrubs.” Anne had planned to spend Christmas with her family in Ireland, but the weather ruined those plans. While she’s initially upset, Anne quickly cheers up once she’s with Amanda.

Considering how Amanda often talks down to her friend Anne, it’s surprising Anne doesn’t stand up for herself. According to Dunne, Anne has occasionally pushed back, but mostly she seems to enjoy Amanda’s attention and perhaps hopes some of Amanda’s positive qualities will rub off on her.

Amanda’s neighbor, Mal – a single dad and possible romantic interest – is along for the ride too. Actor Samuel Anderson explains that Amanda feels out of place in SoHo, but she’s such a strong personality that people are drawn to her. He says there’s something very British about enjoying a character who is a bit of a snob and makes mistakes, but Amanda is ultimately lovable.

It’s like, just when you think you’ve figured her out – that she’s sweet and a little innocent – she totally surprises you and does something frustrating again! He just grinned and said, ‘What can I do? I guess I’m admitting she gets to me.’

Amanda handles these kinds of situations with ease, thanks to Punch. She playfully dismisses them, much like a seasoned performer would. As she puts it, people are simply drawn to the drama – like moths to a flame.

Amandaland is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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2025-11-25 03:48