Published: September 22, 2025, 8:18 AM EST
Great news for comedy fans! A new feature film celebrating the late Caroline Aherne, the genius behind The Royle Family and The Mrs Merton Show, is on the way. Announced today by Deadline, this project will honor her incredible contributions to British television in a big way.
EXCLUSIVE: Caroline Aherne, the beloved British comedy star behind ‘The Royle Family’ and ‘The Mrs Merton Show’, is to be the subject of a feature filmhttps://t.co/804838MTGt
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) September 22, 2025
The film brings together Andy Harries, the producer of The Crown and executive chairman of Left Bank Pictures, and Oscar-nominated writer Jeff Pope, known for Philomena. Their script focuses on Aherne’s best years, from her stand-up comedy start in the 1990s to starring in The Royle Family. This sitcom’s unique, no-audience style changed UK TV, earning several BAFTAs. Harries calls the script “sad, funny, and very emotional,” with a lead role perfect for an actress in her early to mid-30s.
Aherne, who sadly passed away from cancer in 2016 at age 52, left a lasting impact. A 2018 British Film Institute study noted how her work brought more working-class voices to comedy. Pope, who worked with her on The Fattest Man in Britain, said, “She was a true original from Manchester who broke all the rules. I want everyone to see her genius.” Her Royle Family co-creator Craig Cash, now the voice of Gogglebox, will consult and produce, adding a personal touch.
The project is still early, with a director and cast yet to be chosen, but excitement is building. Aherne’s struggles with depression add depth—research from the Journal of Creative Behavior (2020) links adversity to great art, making her story even more inspiring. This film aims to introduce her brilliance to new audiences while honoring her memory.
With Harries and Pope leading the charge, this could be a heartfelt hit. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting tribute!
