Heresy (radio series)
Heresy was a BBC Radio 4 comedy sketch show written by Andy Hamilton and produced by Alan Nixon. It ran for ten series, beginning in 2008 and concluding in 2018.
The premise of Heresy involved a panel of comedians and writers arguing against commonly held beliefs, traditions, and accepted wisdoms. Chaired by Victoria Coren Mitchell (initially Linda Smith in the pilot episode), the show tasked the panellists with presenting their "heretical" views, attempting to persuade the audience that their unorthodox perspectives held merit. Points were awarded for originality, humour, and the strength of their arguments.
Regular panellists included Danny Baker, David Mitchell, and Miles Jupp, though numerous guest panellists appeared throughout the show's run. Topics ranged from the trivial to the significant, covering areas such as popular culture, politics, social norms, and everyday life.
The show was known for its sharp wit, insightful commentary, and willingness to challenge conventional thinking. It often explored controversial or provocative subjects, generating both laughter and debate. Heresy was a popular and critically acclaimed radio programme, garnering awards and a loyal listenership during its time on air. Its format fostered engaging discussions and offered a platform for comedians to express unconventional opinions in a humorous and accessible way.