Classic British satirical puppet sketch show Spitting Image will be returning next month to streaming service Britbox as their first original commission. This latest version will include over 100 new puppets with the likenesses of famous figures in politics pop culture and sport specially made for a brand new season of 10 episodes.
Long rumored to be planning a comeback, the latest revival of Spitting Image was confirmed in Sept 2019 when new puppets for contemporary figures such as Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg, Russian president Vladimir Putin and the current president of the United States Donald Trump were revealed. The Simpsons and Futurama writer Jeff Westbrook will be on board as the showrunner and original series co-creator Roger Law will lead the creative team.
American audiences may recognize the distinctive puppets from the old Genesis video for "Land of Confusion", but Spitting Image was an institution in its home country. Originally running on Britain's ITV network from 1986 through to 1996, Spitting Image skewered the famous figures of its day with a focus on British politics, Spitting Image was an instant success spinning off all kinds of merchandise such as books, video games and several singles. One time it even managed to get to the top of the UK singles chart with 'The Chicken Song'.
The new season of Spitting Image, though still focusing largely on British politics, will be aimed at a more global audience with new puppets based on Kim Kardashian, Piers Morgan and the adorable Baby Yoda from The Mandalorian. Political comedian Matt Forde announced his involvement with the show tweeting "Chuffed* to announce that I'm writing on the new series of Spitting Image and voicing some of the puppets. It's surreal to be part of such an iconic institution that I adored. It's like being asked to play guitar with Oasis**. Can't wait for you to see it." (*Very happy) (**The guys who did "Wonderwall")
The new season of Spitting Image will debut on Britbox on Oct 3.
Source: Radio Times