A ruthless manager attempts to manufacture the ultimate boy band, selecting members based on marketability rather than any discernible musical talent. A biting and often cynical parody of the late nineties pop music industry. The series arrived at the height of boy band mania, offering a sharp critique of the artificiality and greed driving the charts.
Frank Harper is excellent as the manipulative manager who treats his young stars like disposable commodities. While the satire is occasionally broad, the show captures the era’s obsession with image over substance with a cruel, observational wit. It remains a fascinating time capsule of the pre-streaming music business, featuring early appearances from future household names in the ensemble. An interesting early credit for Richard Osman.
Production Details
UK / Channel 4 - Hat Trick / 6x30 Minute Episodes / 1999
Writers: Richard Osman
Producer: Richard Osman
Directors: Liddy Oldroyd
Music: Phil Harding, Ian Curnow
Main Cast
Frank Harper as Nigel Gacey
James Corden as Gareth
Billy Worth as Nicky
Adam Sinclair as Jason
Lee Williams as Scott
Lindy Whiteford as Jean Allen