ITV has ordered a Britain’s Got Talent-inspired comedy impressions panel show

Comedy impressionists will take the spotlight in a brand new ITV panel show, which has apparently been inspired by Britain’s Got Talent.

According to Broadcast magazine (via Chortle), bosses have ordered seven 45-minute episodes of ‘The Imitation Game’.

It involves teams going head-to-head as they “perform their stunning big name impersonations in a series of witty rounds and hilarious games”.

Challenges will apparently see comedians dub old news footage with new voiceovers, and cover popular songs in the voice of a different artist.

Example scenarios include Donald Trump rubbing shoulders with Cheryl Tweedy, and Boris Johnson duetting with Adele.

The Imitation Game will be presented by Pointless star Alexander Armstrong, who also fronts ITV’s Don’t Ask Me, Ask Britain.

Rory Bremner (of Bremner, Bird and Fortune) and Debra Stephenson (The Impressions Show, Dead Ringers) will act as team captains.

The show is also expected to feature Luke Kempner (Murder In Successville, Big Brother’s Bit On The Side) and Britain’s Got Talent 2017 semi-finalist Jess Robinson.

All four mimics were involved the pilot episode, which was filmed at Elstree Studios in July.

Kenton Allen, CEO of makers Big Talk Productions, admitted to Broadcast that the popularity of impressions on Britain’s Got Talent served as inspiration for the format.

Other impersonators that have made the live shows of the Simon Cowell talent contest include Philip Green, Francine Lewis, Paul Burling and Jon Clegg.

Bosses promise that The Imitation Game will feature upcoming impressionists in addition to seasoned pros.

It is due to launch on ITV in 2018.