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Blackadder to return after 20 years for Comic Relief special

Richard Curtis has a cunning plan

ROBINSON,ATKINSON, BLACKADDER GOES FORTH, 1989
Tony Robinson (Baldrick) and Rowan Atkinson (Blackadder) in Blackadder Goes Forth. (BBC/Alamy)

Classic sitcom Blackadder is set to make a return for the first time in more than 20 years as part of a Comic Relief special.

The historic sitcom, created by Richard Curtis and Rowan Atkinson, is one of the most beloved shows in the archives of UK comedy and now fans can look forward to a new instalment.

Curtis has confirmed he will bring back Blackadder as part of his charity fundraiser, and it will feature Tony Robinson in his famous role as Baldrick.

The screenwriter and Comic Relief co-founder spoke to Gary Davies on BBC’s Radio 2 Breakfast on Tuesday about this year's Red Nose Day.

Read more: Why children under 7 can't wear Comic Relief's 2023 red nose

Davies asked Curtis: "What’s happening on the telly show? You were telling me something about Blackadder?"

Curtis replied: "God I’m really nervous about saying this but… I think for the first time in 20 years, Baldrick is going to be giving some kind of performance.

Baldrick (Tony Robinson) with red flan/lemon merangue pie
Tony Robinson as Baldrick. (BBC/Alamy)

"We’re just conspiring about it now, so I think there is going to be a marvellous, turnip-based thing with Tony Robinson now back in action, so I’m kind of excited about that."

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However, the bad news is that it doesn't look like the show's co-writer Rowan Atkinson will return as title character Blackadder.

Asked about the possibility of a starring role for him, Curtis said: "No, Rowan’s far too serious to do any of that."

Comic Relief founder Richard Curtis wrote Blackadder. (Getty)
Comic Relief founder Richard Curtis wrote Blackadder. (Getty)

Blackadder ran for four series between 1983 and 1989, featuring the character Blackadder in different historical periods from the Middle Ages through to the First World War.

The most recent special episode aired in 1999, and stars who have appeared alongside Atkinson and Robinson in the comedy included Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Miranda Richardson and Tim McInnerny.

Blackadder is not the only sitcom to be announced for a revival - John Cleese and his daughter Camilla have recently revealed plans for a Fawlty Towers reboot.

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