Channel 4 has commissioned a new doc from Rumpus Media in which Johnny Vegas will create a piece of public art for his hometown.

Johnny Vegas: Art, ADHD and Me, a 2 x60 series made by Rumpus Media, will see the comedian and trained potter “take on the biggest artistic challenge of his career” –  to create a piece of public art for St. Helens in Merseyside.

“What starts as a creative endeavour turns into a journey of self-discovery when Johnny receives a diagnosis of ADHD. Though the original artistic vision falters, the documentary uncovers a silver lining—an honest and heartfelt conversation about mental health and understanding yourself.”

Johnny Vegas says:  “I used to sit at a potter’s wheel on stage. People thought it was a gimmick but I actually started out as a dedicated wannabe ceramicist. Art was my educational saviour. Over years of witnessing what felt like an ongoing decline in educational commitment to the very same arts I felt it was time I threw my hat back into the ring. To kickstart a debate about culture in general, whilst giving something of a visual a symbol of gratitude back to my honestly beloved town.”

Adeel Amini, Head of Entertainment at Rumpus Media says: “Johnny Vegas is already well-known and revered as an actor and comedian, but now we’re thrilled to bring you his journey back to his first love: being an artist. In this unique two-part series, Johnny tackles art and creativity with his trademark wit and humour, as well as a great deal of honesty and emotion, showing us a brand new side to one of Britain’s best-loved figures.”

Shaminder Nahal, Head of Specialist Factual at Channel 4 says: “This series brings to life the power of art for everyone – how it can soothe, help, energise and inspire. Beautifully filmed over several years by Eddie Stafford, the series showcases Johnny’s unique humour, heart and passion – uncovering the intricacies and demands of artistic process along the way. It’s an enlightening, eye-opening and emotional journey.”

Series Producer/Director is Eddie Stafford. Executive Producers are Adeel Amini and Josephine Brassey with Iain Wimbush also EP on the first ep.

 

Jon Creamer

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