Griff Rhys Jones Leads West End Return in ‘I’m Sorry, Prime Minister’

LONDON (Azat TV) – Celebrated British comedian Griff Rhys Jones is making a significant return to the London stage, leading the cast of “I’m Sorry, Prime Minister” at the Apollo Theatre in the West End. Scheduled to run from January 30 to April 25, 2026, with an official press night on February 12, this theatrical production marks a notable comeback for Jones to live theatre, coinciding with his current appearance on BBC Two’s popular quiz show, “Richard Osman’s House of Games.”

A Return to Whitehall’s Corridors

“I’m Sorry, Prime Minister” is a new stage adaptation drawing from the beloved political satire television series “Yes Minister,” which famously explored the intricacies of Whitehall’s fictional Department of Administrative Affairs. Griff Rhys Jones steps into the role of ex-Prime Minister Jim Hacker, a character originally portrayed by the late Paul Eddington. He is joined by Clive Francis, who reprises his role as the formidable Sir Humphry Appleby.

The production is penned and directed by BAFTA Award-winning Jonathan Lynn, who co-created the original “Yes Minister” and “Yes, Prime Minister” series. This stage play is presented as the final chapter of the iconic political saga, depicting Hacker and Appleby confronting the realities of retirement. Michael Gyngell also serves as co-director, ensuring a nuanced portrayal of the enduring, often exasperating, dynamic between the two central figures.

The play’s run at the Apollo Theatre, a distinguished venue in London’s theatre district, is highly anticipated by fans of the original series and theatregoers eager to see Rhys Jones’s interpretation of such an iconic political figure. The narrative promises to offer a witty and insightful look into the post-power lives of two of British comedy’s most memorable characters.

Featured on ‘Richard Osman’s House of Games’

Adding to his current media presence, Griff Rhys Jones is among the celebrity guests featured this week on ‘Richard Osman’s House of Games.’ The popular BBC Two quiz show, known for its engaging mix of wit and trivia, airs from January 26 to January 30, 2026, at 6 PM. Rhys Jones joins a lineup that includes Tasha Ghouri, Jon Kay, and Alexandra Mardell, competing in a series of fast-paced challenges designed to test their general knowledge.

Each episode culminates in a daily champion, with scores accumulated throughout the week to determine an overall winner announced on Friday. The victorious contestant is presented with a choice between the exclusive House of Games suitcase or the unique House of Games bee hotel. His appearance on the show offers audiences a chance to see his quick wit and competitive spirit in a different, more casual setting, ahead of his formal stage return.

A Legacy in British Comedy

Griff Rhys Jones has long been recognized as a significant figure in British comedy and entertainment, increasingly earning the informal title of a ‘national treasure.’ His career spans several decades, marked by diverse roles across television, film, and theatre. Audiences widely recall his groundbreaking work in the satirical sketch comedy series “Not the Nine O’Clock News,” where he starred alongside the late Mel Smith.

The partnership between Rhys Jones and Smith became iconic, extending beyond their television series to memorable appearances, including their introduction of Queen at the historic Live Aid concert at Wembley Stadium in 1985. Their comedic synergy and distinctive style left an indelible mark on British popular culture, influencing a generation of comedians and solidifying Rhys Jones’s reputation as a versatile and beloved performer.

Griff Rhys Jones’s simultaneous return to the West End stage and his high-profile television appearance underscores his enduring appeal and remarkable versatility, demonstrating his ability to captivate audiences across different mediums and generations, from classic political satire to contemporary quiz show entertainment.