Channel 4 is set to disrupt its regular schedule and reimagine some of its biggest mainstream shows with a ‘takeover’ day of programming that will mark a year since the international protests and debates sparked by the killing of George Floyd and lead into Black History Month 2021.
Programming will include:
Mo Gilligan to front The Big Breakfast one-off special
Hollyoaks one-hour special written, directed and performed by Black talent
Tender open for late-night topical discussion show
Celebrity Gogglebox, Countdown and Channel 4 News to feature all Black talent
Channel 4 consults The Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity to help shape ambitious and meaningful off-screen talent commitments
New reports suggest that TV favourites Maya Jama and Clara Amfo could be joining Mo Gilligan on the show later this year.
A source told The Sun : "Maya would be the perfect fit to feature on the Big Breakfast reboot and Channel 4 has her firmly in its sights. She is on its wish list of black female talent, along with Strictly star and broadcaster Clara Amfo...
"Maya is incredibly busy but Channel 4 is hoping she’ll be able to make room in her diary to be a part of the show, which bosses think is going to be a roaring success when it airs on September 10."
Comedian Mo Gilligan said: "Like so many of us, I loved The Big Breakfast and I am so grateful to be asked to host this special event, particularly as part of such a hugely thrilling and history making day for British television!"
Ian Katz, Director of Programmes said: “Channel 4 was created to give voice to underrepresented parts of society and do things which other broadcasters would not, and the Black Takeover qualifies on both counts. It will be much more than a day of eye-catching programming, providing a focal point for our efforts to drive up on and off screen representation and leaving a lasting legacy on the channel and beyond.”