Hugh Bonneville and John Morton are once again collaborating on a new comedy series for the BBC, titled “Twenty Twenty Six.” This marks the latest addition to Morton’s acclaimed trilogy following “Twenty Twelve” and “W1A,” both of which have been celebrated for their satirical examination of British public institutions. “Twenty Twenty Six” shifts focus to the United States, satirizing the organized efforts behind the upcoming soccer World Cup, scheduled to take place in 2026 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Overview of ‘Twenty Twenty Six’
The premise of “Twenty Twenty Six” revolves around Bonneville’s character, Ian Fletcher. Once the fictional Head of Values at the BBC, Fletcher is now the Director of Integrity for the Oversight Team Strategic Operations Group. The series explores the complexities and humorous missteps involved in organizing a major international tournament.
Filming and Set Design
The filming took place at North Studios in London, featuring a set designed to resemble a modern, post-pandemic office space. Although no actual filming occurred in the United States, the series does include drone footage captured in Miami, enhancing the show’s aesthetic. The artificial Miami skyline serves as a backdrop, juxtaposing the comedic mundanity the characters experience.
Key Cast and Characters
- Hugh Bonneville as Ian Fletcher
- Chelsey Crisp as Sarah Campbell, VP Sustainability
- Paulo Costanzo as Nick Castellano, VP Legal
- Nick Blood as Will Humphries, returning character from previous series
- Stephen Kunken as Owen Mitchell, VP Logistics
- Jimena Larraguivel as Gabriela De La Rosa, VP Optics
John Morton’s Creative Process
John Morton, the creator of the series, is known for his meticulous writing style. He often begins with organizations’ lofty public aspirations and examines the disparities with day-to-day reality. This approach provides rich material for comedy, and Morton has found it to be “very fertile ground” throughout his career.
Anticipation for ‘Twenty Twenty Six’
The potential for humor is heightened by the character interactions within a multinational corporate environment. The addition of American and Canadian actors allows the series to explore cultural nuances while maintaining the sharp wit Morton is known for. Bonneville humorously likens the filming process to “having root canal surgery,” emphasizing the complexity and detail involved.
As the show prepares for its debut in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, BBC Studios is optimistic about its reception. The combination of Bonneville’s star power and the timely subject matter seeks to attract a diverse audience. Casting director Rachel Freck highlighted the unique blend of talent brought into the series, which promises to deliver both humor and insight into the absurdities of bureaucracy.
In summary, “Twenty Twenty Six” not only continues the tradition of sharp British comedy but also opens a new chapter with its Stateside focus. Audiences can look forward to a blend of familiar characters and fresh faces as they delve into the chaotic world of international sports management.
