News Mania Desk/ Agnibeena Ghosh/18th June 2024
Renowned television presenter Graham Norton is expanding his creative horizons into the realm of cinema, as he embarks on co-writing and producing a romantic comedy. The project, a collaboration between Norton’s So Television company and Tiger Mountain Productions, will be helmed by Dan Mazer, known for directing the beloved British film “Bridget Jones’s Baby.”
Scheduled to commence filming later this year, the British-Irish movie has secured financing from Sky and is slated to be shot in various locations across Ireland during July and August. Despite encountering challenges along the way, particularly in navigating the complexities of film production, Norton’s team at So Television remains optimistic about the project’s potential.
A source close to the production shared insights, highlighting the enthusiasm surrounding the upcoming film: “This is a really exciting project and everyone has high hopes for it now the ball is really rolling. Talks are ongoing with some high-profile actors who would really make the script come alive.”
Graham Norton’s venture into filmmaking follows the adaptation of his novel “Holding” into an ITV series in 2022, starring Conleth Hill and Siobhan McSweeney. Although Norton did not take on a production role for the series, he played an active part in ensuring the portrayal of Irishness remained authentic yet restrained. Reflecting on the adaptation, Norton emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance in cultural representation: “Whenever I felt it was too Irish, I was going, ‘No. You’ve got Irish actors, you’re filming in West Cork. It’s Irish enough… we get it’.”
Earlier this year, Norton bid farewell to his long-running Virgin Radio show after 13 years on the airwaves, citing a desire to reclaim his weekends. His departure marked the end of an era for many listeners who tuned in faithfully to his Saturday morning broadcasts. In his final broadcast in March, Norton expressed gratitude to his audience, describing his departure as “one last gallop around the paddock” before retiring from his radio duties.
As Norton expands his creative pursuits beyond television and radio, his foray into film production underscores his versatility and enduring appeal in the entertainment industry. With the romantic comedy poised to bring his distinctive flair and wit to the silver screen, fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate Norton’s next chapter as a filmmaker.
