Shooting Stars makes a Christmas comeback

Dec 28 2008 by Ian Robson, Sunday Sun

DO Vic and Bob still have what it takes to relive their past glories in Shooting Stars?

Fans of North comedians Reeves and Mortimer are probably already aware that the duo are returning for a one-off special.

Reeves has made no secret of the fact that he would like a sixth series. And, if enough viewers agree, this seasonal special may well be the precursor to that ambition being realised.

Watch out for favourites, such as Dove from Above and the Wonderful, Wonderful Car.

As well as the special, there is also a documentary on the ground-breaking show broadcast immediately beforehand.

Shooting Stars was a mix of surreal variety show and celebrity panel game.

Joining the hosts once again will be musical man-baby George Dawes — aka Matt Lucas — and a panel of celebrity guests.

Matt, of course, went on to greater things with Little Britain but he agreed to return to Shooting Stars as the number-obsessed score-keeper.

Returning in the role of team captain is Ulrika Jonsson and she is joined by Jack Dee.

A spokesman for the BBC said: “Shooting Stars — one of TV’s first celebrity panel shows — was piloted on BBC2 in December 1993 and went on to run for five series, becoming a multi-award-winning worldwide hit.

“This special anniversary night, hosted by Vic and Bob, features past team captains, previous guests and, of course, George Dawes.

“It treats fans to previously unseen sketches and hilarious out-takes before finishing with a brand-new episode of the cult quiz.”

Included in the mix are interviews with the many stars who willingly put themselves in Vic and Bob’s firing line, including Geordie actor Tim Healy.

Vic, known for his off-the-wall sense of humour, was born James Roderick Moir. He supposedly derived the name Vic Reeves from two of his favourite singers Vic Damone and Jim Reeves.

Since the last series of Shooting Stars he has kept busy with guest appearances in various shows, while Bob has headlined his own panel show 29 Minutes of Fame and has a writing project in the works.

The documentary part of the night features behind-the-scenes information and classic clips.

V SHOOTING STARS: THE INSIDE STORY, BBC2, Tuesday, 9pm. ALL NEW SHOOTING STARS, BBC2, Tuesday, 10pm.