Reading comedian to guest star in U&Gold series

The show, Joe And David’s Magical Sitcom Tour, blends travelogue with comedy nostalgia as Joe Wilkinson and David Earl embark on themed day trips inspired by iconic shows including The Office, Porridge, and Fawlty Towers.

Gervais, 64, will appear in the Office-themed episode, treating the duo to a rendition of David Brent’s infamous song “Freelove Freeway”.

Gervais co-created The Office, which aired on the BBC from 2001 to 2003, and played the unforgettable regional manager David Brent.

The mockumentary-style sitcom — and its American counterpart — earned widespread acclaim and numerous awards.

But the Reading connection runs deeper. Earl, who also starred in Gervais’ Netflix hit After Life, played Brian in the 2010 film Cemetery Junction, which was set in Reading and named after the town’s well-known junction.

The film offered a nostalgic look at working-class life in the 1970s and remains one of Gervais’ most personal projects.

In the new series, Wilkinson and Earl will visit filming locations, re-enact favourite scenes, and hear behind-the-scenes stories from cast and crew.

Wilkinson, currently appearing on The Celebrity Traitors, said: “I’ve been obsessed with sitcoms since I was a lad, so hunting about for locations and other bits and bobs related to some of my favourite shows is like a dream come true … and that’s why I refused to take a fee for this job.”

Earl added: “It honestly feels like I’ve won a competition where the prize is stepping through the TV screen into my favourite sitcom worlds. This 51-year-old man is very happy indeed.”

Executive producer Peter Holmes described the show as a “passion project”, adding: “Joe and David love sitcoms and their affection for the form and for each other make them the perfect pair to take us on a tour of these comedy classics.”

Joe And David’s Magical Sitcom Tour will air on U&Gold in 2026.