Keith Lemon, known for his alter ego, has confirmed the end of The Keith and Paddy Picture Show, a program that aired on ITV. The show, which featured Keith and co-host Paddy McGuinness recreating famous movie scenes with celebrity guests, was discontinued by ITV in 2019. Keith, whose real name is Leigh Francis, had remained silent about the axing until now.
Keith recently announced his decision to take a break from comedy to pursue other endeavors. During an Instagram Live session, he explained that he found it challenging to distance himself from the comedic persona he had created and that his next projects would be more straightforward in nature.
The Keith and Paddy Picture Show featured an impressive roster of guests, including Louise Redknapp, Michelle Keegan, Ant and Dec, and David Dickinson. However, despite its strong start, the show’s viewership declined during its second season, prompting ITV to terminate its production.
According to a TV insider who spoke to the Daily Star at the time, the decision to cancel the show was a difficult one. The insider praised the show’s uniqueness and buzz, but acknowledged that declining ratings ultimately influenced the decision.
Despite the show’s end, the insider expressed optimism that both Keith and Paddy, who are considered valuable assets in the television industry, may collaborate on future projects. The insider also hinted at the possibility of future appearances featuring the duo in comedic roles on other shows.
Over the course of its two seasons, The Keith and Paddy Picture Show featured notable guests taking on iconic movie roles. Louise Redknapp portrayed Julia Roberts’ character in a spoof of Pretty Woman, while Michelle Keegan, Ant and Dec, and David Dickinson recreated the conclusion of the Star Wars trilogy in season two. The show also included alternative renditions of Jaws, Terminator 2, and other blockbuster films, featuring celebrity guests such as Stephen Tompkinson, Myleene Klass, and Hank Osasuna.
