Neil and Rob Gibbons, the writers behind recent Alan Partridge projects, have adapted Eric Morecambe's 1982 and 1983 children's books into a six-part comedy series for the BBC called The Reluctant Vampire. The series stars Bill Bailey, Ross Noble, Tom Davies, Sian Clifford and Asim Chaudhry.
The story follows an undead aristocratic family living in a gothic castle. Tom Davis plays Victor, the patriarch who hunts and drains humans. Sian Clifford plays Valeeta, Victor's wife, described as sharing chemistry reminiscent of Gomez and Morticia from The Addams Family films. The couple's two children include Vernon, played by Gabriel Nagy in his first major screen role. Vernon loves the vampire life and can identify blood varieties by taste.
According to the Guardian review, the adaptation preserves the warmth and humour of Morecambe's original books while adding fresh material. The writers have tailored the comedy for a younger audience, including jokes for parents but avoiding the sharp satirical edge that characterises their Alan Partridge work.
The piece calls the series "gag-packed" and praises the entire cast. Gabriel Nagy's performance as Vernon draws particular note as "absolutely wonderful" for a debut screen role.
The show appears positioned as family entertainment with broad appeal, marketed as a "lovely teatime treat" that balances accessibility for children with humour adults will enjoy.