BBC show to mark 25th anniversary of beloved show - 18 years after it was axed

The hit BBC show is marking its 25th anniversary by going on a UK tour, with the cast also set to perform on Radio 4

A much-loved BBC comedy is gearing up to mark a major milestone despite a nearly 18-year absence from television screens, with a twist in store for its loyal fanbase. Instead of airing on TV, the show is hitting the road to celebrate 25 years since its debut.

The cast members are set to take the satirical radio programme turned live stage show on its first-ever UK-wide tour. The Dead Ringers Tour will see Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Lewis McLeod, and Duncan Wisbey join forces once more as they delve into a quarter-century's worth of iconic sketches, spot-on impressions, and biting satire.

While the show's cast has appeared together in one-off performances in cities like London and Edinburgh, this tour promises to deliver a fresh, exciting experience for fans nationwide.

The tour serves as a touching tribute to the late Bill Dare, the creator and driving force behind Dead Ringers, who sadly passed away earlier this year.

In announcing his death, JFL Agency said at the time: "We are shocked and greatly saddened to have to announce the death of our brilliant client Bill Dare, who died at the weekend following an accident overseas.

"Our thoughts are with his wife Lucy, daughter Rebecca, and with all of Bill's family and friends who will be devastated by his loss. Bill was a truly legendary producer and writer, and his comedy instincts were second to none."

Bill was a titan of radio and TV comedy, contributing to iconic programmes like The Now Show, Spitting Image, and The Mary Whitehouse Experience.

The team from Dead Ringers has expressed their pride in touring to pay homage to his contributions. From September, audiences can expect the unique blend of incisive humour, playful mischief, and uncanny impressions that Dead Ringers is known for.

Before taking to the road, the radio version will grace the airwaves with its timely satire this June on BBC Radio 4 as part of Friday Night Comedy. It's important to note that this tour is designed solely for live audiences and won't be broadcast.

Dead Ringers’ television counterpart was shelved in 2009 following its seventh season. Jan Ravens, one of the stars at the time, shared her surprise at the cancellation: "It's bizarre, there was no announcement or anything.

"The producer just rang me and said it's not going to be re-commissioned. It would be nice to make an announcement or do a farewell edition of the show."

Throughout the nine years the show aired, Jan impersonated a range of figures from Amy Winehouse to Ann Robinson.