Filming has begun on Better Later, a new Welsh BBC comedy co-written by and starring Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs. Commissioned by BBC Cymru Wales and BBC Comedy, and produced by Tidy Productions in association with BBC Studios Comedy, with support from Creative Wales, the 6x30’ series explores the unexpected bond formed between two people who meet at a knee trauma clinic.
The story follows retired teacher Clive (Steve Speirs), 60 and widowed, and environmental health officer Shelley Anne (Ruth Jones), 55 and going through a difficult divorce, as they form an unlikely friendship that reshapes both their lives.
The series is shot in and around South Wales, including the Brecon Beacons, and is set in the fictional village of Brynfach. Ruth Jones says: “In a funny way this show has 35 years in the making, which is when I first met Steve. It’s not that we’re slow writers it’s just that we’ve been up to other things. It’s fantastic to be back in front of the camera with him again.”
Steve Speirs says: “Our first time acting together for quite a long time, Ruth makes me laugh more than anyone and I’m a terrible giggler. This could be a long shoot.”
The series is a Tidy Production in association with BBC Studios Comedy for BBC iPlayer, BBC One and BBC One Wales. It was commissioned by Nick Andrews, Head of Commissioning at BBC Cymru Wales, and Jon Petrie, Director of Comedy at the BBC. The commissioning editors are Emma Lawson and Paul Forde. Executive Producers are Sarah Fraser for Tidy Productions and Josh Cole for BBC Studios Comedy. Producer is Owen Bell and Director is Simon Massey. BBC Studios handles global sales.
BBC Commissions Welsh Comedy Better Later Starring Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs
