Inspired by the classic sketch show Little Britain, this new comedy series would take a satirical look at life in the rougher areas of the North East, from Consett and Bishop Auckland to Byker, Middlesbrough, and Hartlepool. Expect over-the-top but painfully relatable characters, from blokes down the pub talking about ‘the good old days’ to local politicians making empty promises.
The show would highlight the stark differences between working-class communities and the more affluent areas of Durham, Newcastle, and Sunderland, capturing the region’s unique humour, resilience, and social divides. Whether it’s a posh Jesmond student complaining about the price of oat milk or a no-nonsense Jarrow mam who can make an entire Sunday roast for under a fiver, the show would be packed with hilarious moments.
Greggs is more than just a bakery; it’s a North East institution. This docu-drama would chart the journey of Greggs from its humble beginnings in Newcastle in 1939 to its domination of the high street and its deep cultural significance in the region.
The show would explore how Greggs became an integral part of North East life, from fuelling factory workers in the 20th century to being a go-to spot for students at Newcastle University, where the famed ‘Greggs Society’ has cemented its place in student culture. With behind-the-scenes access and interviews with former employees, franchise owners, and die-hard Greggs fans, this series would offer a fascinating look at how a simple sausage roll became a national obsession.
A biographical drama, this show would tell the story of Tom Cowie, the Sunderland-born entrepreneur who transformed the transport and education sectors in the North East. From taking over his father’s cycle shop to building one of the UK’s largest bus companies, Cowie’s impact on Sunderland and beyond is undeniable.
The show would delve into his influence on the region, including his contributions to Sunderland AFC, the establishment of new schools, and his philanthropic efforts, which have left a lasting legacy. Today, his story is immortalised at Beamish Museum, and this series would bring his journey to life, showing how one man’s vision changed the way the North East moved and learned.
Following in the footsteps of Sunderland ‘Til I Die, this documentary would focus on the incredible transformation of Newcastle United following the club’s Saudi-backed takeover in 2021. Once a struggling club under Mike Ashley’s ownership, Newcastle is now experiencing a new golden era, with top-tier players, Champions League football, and renewed hope among fans.
The show would document the highs and lows of this journey, from financial struggles to the euphoric return of European nights at St. James’ Park. It would feature interviews with die-hard fans, former players, and those working behind the scenes, capturing what the takeover means for the city and its people. Newcastle is a club reborn, and this series would explore the impact of the revolution both on and off the pitch.
We’ve all seen the classic North East shows, from the outrageous antics of Geordie Shore to hard-hitting dramas like Vera and Auf Wiedersehen, Pet. These shows have put the region on the map in different ways, but there’s still so much more to explore.
Excitingly, the North East is becoming an even bigger hub for TV and film production, with new Sunderland-based production studios currently in development. Hopefully, this investment in the industry will encourage more shows to be made within the region, bringing fresh and authentic North East stories to audiences across the UK.
While these shows are just my own ideas (for now!), they highlight the potential for more North East representation on screen. Whether through comedy, drama, or documentary, the region is packed with stories waiting to be told. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll see these ideas brought to life!