It has been announced by Nice One Productions that filming has commenced on the pilot episode of the new talk show series.
‘What Makes You Tic?’ is presented by Lewis Nickell, a teenage internet sensation and vlogger from Bangor in Northern Ireland who has Tourette’s Syndrome. Lewis uses his YouTube channel to raise awareness about this neurological condition with no known cure, where his self-shot videos have had nearly 170-million views/likes/shares on social media.
The show will feature Lewis in studio and on location interviewing celebrities, alongside comedy segments, games and performances from the very best of new stand-up comedians.
Superstar DJ Fatboy Slim and actress Bronagh Waugh (The Fall) are confirmed as guests for the pilot which will be directed by BAFTA winner Ed Tracy (Fonejacker).
The project is a co-production between Belfast’s Nice One Productions which was set-up by executive producer Chris Jones and Hindsight Productions, the new company set up by David Young (The Weakest Link, Eggheads, Coach Trip) the founder of 12 Yard Productions and former BBC Head of Light Entertainment .
‘What Makes You Tic?’ will shoot entirely in Northern Ireland with funding from David Young and Northern Ireland Screen, supported by Invest NI.
Chris Jones, Nice One Productions:
“I sent David a selection of clips of Lewis' vlogs – he immediately spotted Lewis' star potential and put his money where his mouth is and committed to privately funding a pilot. David’s enthusiasm and financial support encouraged me to approach Northern Ireland Screen and it’s exciting they have also come on-board. I really hope this co-production is the first of many for Nice One and the pilot gives Lewis the chance to fulfill his dream of becoming TV’s very first talk-show host with Tourette’s."
David Young, Hindsight Productions:
"Chris and Lewis' proposal was compelling and instantly I knew ‘What Makes You Tic?’ was a project that I wanted to support both financially and creatively. Quite simply this was one idea that had to be made."
Lewis Nickell, presenter:
“Raising positive awareness about Tourette’s and having fun doing it was my goal from the start. I’m buzzing about the chance to present my own TV talk-show and hope everyone who likes what I’ve done online will really like this as well.”
