Richard & Judy host new teatime book show on Channel 4

Presenting duo Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan are bringing a teatime book show to Channel 4 featuring virtual appearances by authors and celebrity guests during the lockdown.

The duo's new programme “Richard & Judy: Keep Reading and Carry On” starts on 4th May at 5.30pm.

Produced by Label1, it will be a “fast turnaround” five-part series, airing over one week.

Shot from their home, the TV hosts will discuss new releases and share their top recent reads.  

Madeley said: “It is no secret that Judy and I are avid readers and we are excited to return to Channel 4 to share what we love with viewers. “

Finnigan added: “Books can transport you to incredible places from the comfort of your sofa and so there is no better time to share our top picks for lockdown reads and hear from viewers, celebrities and authors about the books that have helped them whilst staying at home.”

The pair previously had a Richard & Judy's Book Club segment on their show, which broadcast on the channel from 2001 to 2008, and now also run a book club with W H Smith.

Their new show is part of a range of Channel 4 programming responding to the Covid-19 crisis which includes “Grayson’s Art Club” and “Jamie: Keep Cooking and Carry On”.

Ian Katz, director of programmes, said: “Richard and Judy are both much-loved Channel 4 faces and the country’s most trusted arbiters of what’s worth reading—the perfect duo to get us through the remainder of lockdown with the help of a few good books.”