Talking Heads on BBC1 - Start date, cast, and everything you need to know

Talking Heads is back!

Talking Heads is returning to BBC1, with an all-new cast performing the iconic monologues.

Here's everything you need to know... see our BBC dramas 2020 guide for more great dramas to enjoy now on iPlayer.

What is Talking Heads about?

If you're not familiar with Alan Bennett's monologues, read on to find out more.

Talking Heads first aired in the 80s and 90s, and told stories through a single perspective.

They dealt with themes such as death, guilt, isolation and illness.

The monologues were written by author and playwright Alan Bennett, who's also known for The History Boys.

The series featured stars such as Julie Waters, Maggie Smith, Patricia Routledge and even Alan Bennett himself.

Now, the original monologues are being revamped with a brand new cast, filmed in lockdown.

In addition, there'll be two new monologues added to the series.

Speaking about the remake, Bennett said, "In such difficult circumstances, that the BBC should choose to remount both series of Talking Heads, and produce two entirely new ones, is a comfort and a huge compliment.

“I hope a new generation of actors will get and give as much pleasure as we did 20 and 30 years ago.”

Who stars in the remake?

Much like the original, the new Talking Heads will see some big names performing Bennett's monologues.

Jodie Comer, Martin Freeman, Tamsin Greig and Imelda Staunton are among those appearing in the new series.

Talking Heads

Jodie Comer will star in Her Big Chance, originally performed by Julie Walters.

The stars will be taking on the now iconic monologues, adding their own spin on them.

Martin Freeman plays Graham, a closeted homosexual who still lives with his mother.

His life becomes complicated when he meets an old friend Frank, who has very different views to him.

Talking Heads

Martin Freeman takes on the role of Graham Whittaker, originally played by Alan Bennett.

Meanwhile, Tamsin Greig will play struggling Rosemary Horrocks, whose husband is determined that they move to Marbella.

She soon befriends her next door neighbour, but much darker truths are revealed about her husband in the process.

Talking Heads

Tamsin Greig will step into Penelope Wilton's shoes for Nights in the Garden of Spain.

Other cast members include Lesley Manville, Lucian Msamati, Maxine Peake, Rochenda Sandall, Sarah Lancashire and Monica Dolan.

When can we watch it?

Episodes are available on BBC iPlayer (see our TV Guide for more shows to enjoy).

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Lucy Buglass
Senior Staff Writer

Lucy joined the WhatToWatch.com team in 2021, where she writes series guides for must-watch programmes, reviews and the latest TV news. Now she works for our sister site TechRadar in the same role. Originally from Northumberland, she graduated from Oxford Brookes University with a degree in Film Studies and moved to London to begin a career writing about entertainment.

She is a Rotten Tomatoes approved film critic and has a huge passion for cinema. She especially loves horror, thriller and anything crime-related. Her favourite TV programmes include Inside No 9, American Horror Story, Stranger Things and Black Mirror but she is also partial to a quiz show or a bit of Say Yes to the Dress