ITV has announced the upcoming series "The Assembly" with the release of a trailer, showcasing a unique concept where celebrities will be interviewed by a group of inquisitive interviewers who are autistic, neurodivergent, and/or learning disabled. The series promises to challenge traditional interview norms, compelling celebrities to engage in conversations that veer away from the typical media training they are often subjected to.
Among the celebrities set to participate are renowned sports broadcaster Gary Lineker, actor David Tennant, pop star Jade Thirlwall, and actor Danny Dyer. Gary Lineker is celebrated for his career in professional football and broadcasting, while David Tennant is best known for his iconic role as the Tenth Doctor in the popular series "Doctor Who." Jade Thirlwall recently embarked on a solo career after a decade with the successful girl group Little Mix, and Danny Dyer has been featured in notable recent works including "Rivals" and "EastEnders."
Originally aired in the UK as a pilot in 2024, "The Assembly" received critical acclaim. The pilot featured actor and director Michael Sheen, who subsequently shared his thoughts on the programme with The Guardian, stating it garnered a degree of response surpassing anything else he had previously accomplished. This initial success has paved the way for the full series which is inspired by the French show "Les Rencontres du Papotin," which premiered in 2022 on France 2.
"The Assembly" is part of ITV’s Diversity Commissioning Fund, indicating a commitment to showcasing a broader spectrum of voices and experiences within the entertainment landscape. Each episode of the series will feature a different celebrity navigating a format that prioritises authenticity, humour, and warm-hearted chaos, ensuring that a multitude of topics can be explored without the constraints typically associated with PR-generated conversation.
The show is set to air soon on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player, awaiting the response of a diverse audience eager for a fresh approach to celebrity interviews.
Source: Noah Wire Services