Lucy Punch is set to reunite with comedy icon Jennifer Saunders in a highly anticipated Christmas special of the popular series Amandaland. This festive episode will air on BBC One at 21:15 on December 25, 2023, marking the first time the two have shared the screen since 1999. Punch, who has built a diverse career spanning television and film, expressed excitement about revisiting her role as the ambitious Amanda, a character she first portrayed in the BBC comedy series Motherland.
The Christmas special will showcase Amanda visiting her Aunt Joan, played by Saunders, in the countryside, alongside her mother, Felicity, played by Dame Joanna Lumley. The new episode shifts the setting from Chiswick to South Harlesden, London, humorously rebranded by Amanda as “So-Ha” to elevate its appeal.
In her conversation with Metro, Punch reminisced about her earlier work with Saunders in the sitcom Let Them Eat Cake. At just 22 years old, she was “starstruck” by the experience. “I couldn’t speak because I was so excited and impressed,” she recalled. Despite the passage of time, Punch noted that the thrill of working with a comedy legend like Saunders remains significant, although she felt more composed this time around.
During rehearsals for the special, Punch discovered a unique method to gauge her performance. “You’re gauging stuff as you’re rehearsing with her, going: ‘Oh, this is making Jennifer laugh. I’ll be sure to do more of that,'” she explained. This comedic dynamic highlights the collaborative nature of their work and the chemistry they have developed over the years.
The anticipation for the Amandaland Christmas episode is palpable, especially with the promise of more character development in future series, slated for release in 2026. “People will enjoy it as much, if not more,” Punch assured fans, noting that the characters have evolved significantly since their initial appearances.
Punch’s portrayal of Amanda has captivated audiences since her debut in Motherland in 2016. Amanda is portrayed as a social climber, often bullying her friend Anne, a dynamic Punch finds enjoyable to play. “I always liked the scenes where I’m bullying Anne, because I feel like that’s where she started,” she said, emphasizing the character’s growth and the fun derived from their interactions.
Beyond her role as Amanda, Punch has made a name for herself in various films, including St. Trinian’s, Bad Teacher, and Ella Enchanted. Reflecting on her journey, Punch shared her decision to leave university to pursue acting full-time, a move that has led to a successful career in both the UK and the US.
Having spent significant time in Hollywood, Punch noted the differences between the entertainment industries in the UK and the US. She described the UK industry as “cosier and warmer,” contrasting it with the more cutthroat nature she experienced in the US. Despite these challenges, she acknowledged the enjoyable aspects of being an actor.
As fans prepare for the Amandaland Christmas special, Punch is eager to celebrate the holiday season in the UK. The reunion of Punch and Saunders promises to deliver laughter and nostalgia, reaffirming their places in the hearts of comedy lovers.
