Ricky Gervais’ most endearing character to date will soon, no longer grace our TV screens now that Derek has sadly come to an end. The Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated series recently concluded with an hour-long special, following its two seasons… the standard format for the comedian’s shows.
It’s not all bad news, however, for fans of the Broad Hill Nursing Home gang, as Gervais recently revealed on his blog that he has a little something more up his sleeve for Netflix viewers. “Even though the UK got it first with its airing on Channel 4, the good news for Netflix viewers around the world is that you will get a longer version, which in my opinion is even better,” said the Derek star.
For those who have not been watching, the show follows the simple Derek Noakes, who lends a helping hand to his good friend Hanna (Kerry Godliman), serving the elderly residents at the local nursing home. Donning a trademark sweater, he approaches everyone he meets with true sincerity and always leads with genuine intentions. Rounding out the show’s cast are David Earl, Colin Hoult, Holli Dempsey, Brett Goldstein and Vicky Hall. While Derek contains all of the comedic sensibilities we’ve come to expect from Gervais (The Office, Extras), the show uniquely and cleverly treads new territory as far as its ability to tug at the heartstrings.
The Derek special originally aired on Channel 4 back on Dec. 22 and saw Hannah and Tom get married and Kev address his problems with drinking. It also followed up on the status of Derek’s relationship with Tracey. No official date has been announced as to when the special will be arriving on Netflix. “Not sure on the launch date yet,” said Gervais, “but I should know very soon.”
Gervais is soon to begin pre-production on his next film, an international comedy/thriller called Special Correspondents, of which he scripted, directed and will star in alongside Eric Bana. Upon finishing the film he’ll begin production on the long-awaited David Brent mockumentary Life on The Road. 2015 sure sounds like a busy year for Gervais and, arguably more importantly, it sounds like a great year for his fans!
William Fanelli is a regular contributor to Flickering Myth – You can follow him on Twitter
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