Introduction
2015 television film
A Gert Lush ChristmasGenreComedy dramaWritten byRussell HowardSteve WilliamsDirected byAl CampbellStarringRussell HowardKerry HowardNeil MorrisseySophie ThompsonGreg DaviesHannah BritlandDougie McMeekinCountry of originUnited KingdomOriginal languageEnglishProductionProducerMark IddonRunning time60 minutesProduction companyAvalon TelevisionOriginal releaseNetworkBBC TwoRelease26 December 2015 (2015-12-26) A Gert Lush Christmas is a British one-off comedy-drama film first broadcast on BBC Two on 26 December 2015. It was co-written by Russell Howard and Steve Williams, and features Howard in his acting debut. The programme also stars Kerry Howard (Russell's real life sister), Neil Morrissey, Sophie Thompson, Hannah Britland and Greg Davies.
Plot
[edit] The story centres around everyman Dan Colman (Russell Howard) who lives in London with his girlfriend Lisa (Hannah Britland). For Christmas, Dan takes Lisa to his home-town of Bamford in Bristol to meet his caring but dysfunctional family which includes his fitness-obsessed father Dave (Neil Morrissey), well-meaning but eccentric mother Sue (Sophie Thompson), charm offensive brother Jake (Dougie McMeekin), hairdresser sister Julie (Kerry Howard) and party animal Uncle Tony (Greg Davies). What begins as over enthusiasm to welcome Lisa into the family ends with Lisa running away and making Dan regret having introduced her to them in the first place. The family then pull together in their own unstable but unique way to amend the mistakes that have been made.
Cast
[edit] Russell Howard as Dan Colman Nathan Stone as young Dan Hannah Britland as Lisa, Dan's girlfriend Neil Morrissey as Dave, Dan's father Sophie Thompson as Sue, Dan's mother Kerry Howard as Julie, Dan's sister Felix Hayes as Trevor, Julie's husband Samuel Woodward as Bert, Julie and Trevor's son Douggie McMeekin as Jake, Dan's brother Maggie O'Neill as Aunty Jade Greg Davies as Uncle Tony Rosie Ede as Aunty Claire Pamela Lyne as Nan, Dan's paternal grandmother Sam Pamphillon as Mark, Dan's oldest friend Paddy Navin as Deirdre Maggie Daniels as Cath Larrington Walker as Roger, Dan and Lisa's neighbour Alun Cochrane as the barman Rose Johnson as the ticket woman Gabriel Vick as Wiggy Jayde Adams as Kelly Keith Chegwin as himself Pat Sharp as himself
Production
[edit] A Gert Lush Christmas was confirmed in April 2015 and filming took place in May 2015.
Why it became a post‑Boxing‑Day favourite
The slot on the day after Christmas is a sweet spot for light, feel‑good fare, and "A Gert Lush Christmas" fits the bill perfectly. Its 60‑minute runtime means it can be tucked in between the festive leftovers and the New Year’s hype without demanding a full‑blown evening. The film’s blend of Russell Howard’s observational comedy with a cosy family‑drama narrative taps into the British tradition of gathering around the telly for a laugh after the hectic first two days of the holidays. It also showcases a cast of familiar faces, giving viewers a comforting sense of continuity while still delivering fresh jokes that feel timely rather than recycled.
How to get the most out of the film on a busy festive schedule
If you’re juggling mince pies, gift‑wrapping and a marathon of classic holiday movies, plan a mini‑screening during the quieter moments of the day—perhaps after the Christmas dinner leftovers have settled. The film’s tight editing makes it easy to watch in one sitting, and the jokes land best when you’re relaxed, not half‑asleep on the sofa. For families, pause after the first half to discuss the comedic take on family dynamics; it opens a light‑hearted conversation about the quirks of your own Christmas gatherings. Finally, keep the remote handy for the BBC iPlayer repeat – it’s often re‑uploaded for the January lull, offering a low‑stress way to revisit the laughs.
What people often miss about Howard’s debut
Many viewers tune in for Russell Howard’s stand‑up reputation and expect a typical comedy special. In reality, this is his first scripted acting role, and the film leans into situational humour rather than punch‑line‑driven sets. The script, co‑written with Steve Williams, balances self‑deprecating jokes with genuine emotional beats, showing Howard’s range beyond the mic. Moreover, the presence of his sister Kerry adds an authentic sibling chemistry that deepens the narrative. Recognising this shift from stage to screen enriches the viewing experience: you’re not just watching a comedian tell jokes, but witnessing a performer exploring a new medium while still keeping his trademark wit.