- Showbiz
- Bbc
Outnumbered dad Pete Brockman is set to reveal a devastating health diagnosis in the show's Christmas special as Pete, played by Hugh Dennis, will break the news to his kids
Loveable dad Pete Brockman will reveal he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer on the Outnumbered Christmas special. Viewers will see the fan favourite, played by Hugh Dennis, break the news to his three children in touching scenes on the hit show.
It’s likely to resonate with millions of Brits who have been hit by the disease in real life. Star Hugh said: “Pretty much every family has been touched by cancer in some way… my dad had cancer at 66. So I’m pleased to have done this storyline.”
Bosses were keen to do the storyline with plenty of the show’s trademark charm and humour.
Creator Guy Jenkin said: “Nearly every family in the country has experienced this in similar forms, including the royal family. We wanted to show how very normal it is and how the Brockmans deal with it with warmth and love and humour.”
Co-creator Andy Hamilton added: “The key to the episode is not about the cancer, it’s about the conversation. It’s a conversation that’s happened in millions of homes.
“We wanted to depict that in an honest and funny way. Humour is an essential survival skill for people to get through tough situations.
“There will be cancer patients who watch the show and our hope is that they find it reassuring in some way… the show gives off the signal that they’re not alone.”
It’s hoped the story will raise awareness about prostate cancer, which is easier to beat when it’s detected early. Hugh said: “If anybody goes and gets a check because of this storyline, that’s a little victory.”
The special also tackles topics including nightmare neighbours and dinosaur impressions to make viewers giggle. Watch it on Boxing Day at 9.40pm on BBC One.
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