Life's Too Short returns to BBC Two for special episode

BBC Two's mockumentary starring Warwick Davis is to return to the channel in a special one-off episode. Written and directed by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, the fake documentary from the creators of The Office and Extras is co-produced by BBC In-house Comedy/Backlash Productions and HBO.

This special 1x60-minute episode picks up from the end of the last series, following the ups and downs of Warwick as he continues life in showbiz.

Hollywood actor Val Kilmer, who last appeared alongside Warwick in the 1988 fantasy film Willow, will also make a guest appearance.

Finally, the 'Holy Trinity' of Les Dennis, Keith Chegwin and former EastEnders actor Shaun Williamson will be reprising their roles playing themselves, as Warwick takes them under his wing in one last attempt to resurrect their careers and bring in some much needed cash.

Ricky says: "I can't wait to work on the Life's Too Short special with the likes of Keith Chegwin. It will make a nice change from working on The Muppet Movie opposite weird little things with squeaky voices."

Stephen says: "I think fans of Willow are going be really surprised to see Warwick Davis and Val Kilmer reunited on screen. Almost as surprised as Val will be when he finds out what we're paying him."

Warwick: "I am thrilled to be able to step back into Warwick's shoes again for this special. Ricky and Stephen's scripts are always a gift to play and the inclusion of Val Kilmer is nothing short of genius."

Mark Freeland, BBC Head of Comedy, says: “Warwick Davis has proved he’s an idiot abroad. It’s time again to see him prove that he’s an idiot at home, too. Fictionally speaking.”

Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant will also return in supporting roles as themselves.

Life's Too Short will transmit on BBC Two and BBC HD in spring 2013. The executive producers are Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, and Mark Freeland for the BBC. The producer is Charlie Hanson.