Written by Jennifer Saunders and clinical psychologist Dr Tanya Byron, The Life And Times Of Vivienne Vyle takes a dark, comedic look at the daytime talk-show format. The show airs this Thursday on BBC Two.

Host Vivienne is a straight-talking protagonist, and is Sally Jesse Raphael, Ricki Lake, Jeremy Kyle and Dr Phil all rolled into one. But her ambition knows no bounds – she wants to be Oprah.

The opening episode introduces viewers to Vivienne’s chaotic world. Flattened by a blundering security guard on set following a punch from a guest, Vivienne is hospitalised and begins to question her future as a talk-show host – until her manic producer, Helena, reveals that, following recent dramas, ratings have doubled. Cue an ever-more determined Vivienne, who dreams of becoming the next Oprah and embarks on a quest to book the guests with the most tragic stories to tell.

The influx of troubled visitors to the show sparks a new recruit to the behind-the-scenes crew, in the shape of show psychotherapist Dr Jonathan Fowler.

Jennifer Saunders plays Vivienne Vyle, Miranda Richardson plays Helena, Jason Watkins plays Dr Jonathan Fowler and Fern Britton also makes a cameo performance.

Thursday 04 October
9:00pm - 9:30pm
BBC2