BBC1 has commissioned a pilot of Father Figure, a post-watershed audience sitcom created, written by and starring stand-up comedian Jason Byrne.

Based on a radio series on BBC Radio 2, Byrne plays Tom, who is married with two sons. He tries to be the best Dad he can, but bad luck and his extended family frustrate his plans. Other cast members include Pauline McLynn (Father Ted), Michael Smiley (Luther) and Dermot Crowley (Bleak House).

Cheryl Taylor, Controller of Comedy Commissioning, BBC said: “Jason Byrne is a bright and bouncy performer and already much loved by comedy enthusiasts everywhere. Following a successful run on Radio 2 we’;re really looking forward to developing the new pilot of Father Figure for BBC One.”

Mark Freeland, Controller, UK Comedy Production, BBC, added: “I have followed Jason Byrne for years and he has made me laugh my hair off many, many times. I am thrilled that we are capturing his stand-up verve in a new pilot.”

The pilot was commissioned by BBC One Controller Danny Cohen and Cheryl Taylor; BBC Controller of Comedy Commissioning. It will be produced by Julia McKenzie (Father Figure, Radio 2). Executive producer is Stephen McCrum.

Father Figure is a BBC in-house production and will go into production next year.