McBRAINS TRUST; Beeb vows new comedy will be a smash, despite poor tests.
Byline: MARION SCOTTBBC chiefs yesterday promised a new comedy show will silence critics who claimed the pilot episode failed to hit the funny bone.
Caledonia MacBrains goes on air this week and BBC Scotland have vowed to give the topical news quiz a 10-week run.
Chewin' the Fat's leading lady Karen Dunbar and comic Fred MacAulay, will pit their wits alongside other Scots celebrities and politicians in a light-hearted look at news, pop and showbiz.
It is seen as Scotland's answer to Have I Got News For You.
But test audiences were said to be less than impressed.
Last night, station insiders backed the under-fire show.
One BBC source said: "The audience was questioned at the end of the show and more than 95 per cent thought it was very funny, and wanted more - much more."
Caroline Roberts, of the BBC Scotland Comedy Unit said: "We're really excited about the show. It's the first time we've had an all Scottish quiz show, tackling issues that matter to Scotland."
Hosted by sports presenter Rob Maclean, teams will include sports stars, politicians and comedians - from Carol Smillie and Gail Porter to Tommy Sheridan.
Caledonia MacBrains is on BBC1 every Wednesday at 10.35 pm from Wednesday, October 17.
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| Publication: | Sunday Mail (Glasgow, Scotland) |
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| Date: | Oct 14, 2001 |
| Words: | 207 |
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