14 September 2023 , 07:11
1143
0
A popular TV show starring James Corden is reportedly set to be made into a film as a "huge tribute" to its late star.
Hit ITV noughties drama Fat Friends is in talks to hit the big screen and followed the lives of slimming club members and their struggle to lose weight each week. It was created by actress and director Kay Mellor, who introduced stars who would go on to work on Gavin and Stacey.
It is believed the film will begin production next year as a tribute to Kay, who died last May aged 71. If plans go ahead, James Corden and Ruth Jones would be reunited once again, much to the delight of fans. “James and Ruth on screen again is the reunion everyone wants, albeit not Gavin and Stacey. The cast were all approached about filming a movie version –– an early script has been written, and is ready to go.
Fat Friends is set to be made into a film (ITV)A source told The Sun: “The film would also be a huge tribute to Kay who helped change so many of the cast’s lives." They added that it is "early days" regarding the project. Actress Gaynor Faye, who starred as Lauren Harris in the drama, revealed she would be taking part in the film. Speaking on Steph McGovern’s Channel 4 show Packed Lunch, she shared: “We’re revisiting the characters and it’s really exciting. Hopefully we’re shooting it next year.”
The drama was set in Leeds and ran for four series from 2000 to 2005. Actor and TV presenter James has shared his role in Fat Friends shot him into fame. Speaking about Kay, he said: “She changed my life when she cast me. She saw something in me that no one had before that point. She gave so many people their first chances.”
Trevor Noah mocks Prince Harry's 'frost-bitten' penis claim at Grammy Awards
Following Kay's death, Ruth paid an emotional tribute to the star as she said: “Such a down-to-earth, funny, big-hearted person whose brilliance lay in seeing the extraordinary in the day-to-day. She was a great mentor to me when I first started writing – and always hugely encouraging of new writers – a real testament to the idea of paying it forward." She said Fat friends was a “massive turning point" in her career.
“I will be eternally grateful to her for what she did for me. British television has lost one of its greats. Thank you Kay for all that you gave us. I cannot believe you’ve gone.” A spokesperson for Kay's TV production company, Rollem Productions, said at the time: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely and sudden passing of our beloved friend, mentor and colleague Kay Mellor on Sunday 15th May 2022.
“We have lost a phenomenal talent and a true luminary. We ask that you please respect the privacy of the family and friends at this time.” Fat Friends starred James, Ruth, Alison Steadman, Sheridan Smith and Jonathan Rylan - who all went on to work together again on Gavin and Stacey.