Bob Mortimer has revealed that the upcoming eighth series of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing will take a 'slightly different approach', with a more personal touch. The hit BBC show, which began in 2018, returns this month, and a first-look teaser has been released.
The stars, Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse, have personally chosen each location for the new run, following the broad journeys of their lives. 'The thrust of this series is that we go to places that we've either fished before or resonate with us from our past or mean a lot,' Paul said. 'I think there's maybe an extra level of poignancy to this series, it’s a little bit more heartfelt.'
Bob added: 'We wanted to be free to pick the places we’ve always wanted to go and places which, sort of, personally meant something to us. So, it's just a slightly different approach, you know, rather than just focusing on species of fish.'
The 20-second teaser is 'voiced' by the dog Ted, who also features in the series. 'Two muppets talking absolute carp again,' the pooch comments, as Bob and Paul chat by a river. 'But let’s be honest, you don’t tune in just for them, you come for me too!' he added. As Bob and Paul wheel Ted along in a trailer in one episode, he jokes: 'See! I’m their catch of the day!'
BBC Commissioning Editor Patrick McMahon said: 'We’re so happy to welcome Paul and Bob back for another slice of fishing, friendship and riverbank philosophy. Following their adventures and spending time in their company is always a treat, and this series promises to be the most personal and pleasurable yet.'
Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing starts on Sunday October 26 at 9pm on BBC Two and iPlayer.
