Seven to produce Billy Connolly series for the UK

Seven will produce a new Factual series starring Billy Connolly for ITV, through their UK production arm 7 Wonder.

Three part series Billy Connolly’s Tracks Across America sees the comedian travel across the United States by train.

It follows his 2011 series Billy Connolly’s Route 66.

Jo Clinton-Davis, Controller of Factual at ITV said: Billy’s infectious joy at discovering new experiences and meeting new people makes every journey he does with us an exceptional ride. And his passion for seeking out the spirit of the US in all its richly varied forms makes him the perfect guide to take us on this iconic trip.”

Series Director Mike Reilly said: “I can’t think of anyone better qualified to undertake this journey than Billy, his love of America, its people and music combined with his one of a kind wit and skewered powers of observation will make this show a joy to be part of and more importantly watch.”

Executive Producer for 7 Wonder Steve Condie said: “The comic brilliance and infectious curiosity of Billy Connolly plus the drama and glory of heartland America – what’s not to love? 7 Wonder are thrilled to be making this series for ITV.”

Starting and finishing in New York this three part series will see Billy head into the vast and astonishing landscapes that make up America’s backyard. Here BIlly will meet a truly remarkable cast of people who capture the irresistible spirit of America and he will regale us with tales of his favourite kinds of people: outlaws, singers, fighters, and dreamers. From the Bad Lands of North Dakota, into the arid beauty of the Arizona desert, past the peaks of the Smokey Mountains, skirting the lazy swamplands of Louisiana – this is a big sky country fullof places and people we rarely see but Billy can’t wait to visit.