French and Saunders Reunite: Comedy Legends to Play Ugly Sisters at London Palladium

Comedy icons Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are set to reunite on stage for the first time in 17 years to star in the London Palladium’s upcoming Christmas pantomime, Cinderella. The legendary duo will take on the roles of the Wicked Stepsisters, marking a historic moment for British theatre and comedy fans alike.

The Full Story

It has been nearly two decades since the nation’s favourite comedy partnership shared a stage for a major production, but the wait is officially over. The announcement that French and Saunders will headline this year's Palladium panto has sent ripples of excitement through the West End. They aren't just making a cameo; they are diving headfirst into the mayhem as the iconic Ugly Sisters.

The production of Cinderella is scheduled to run for a strictly limited five-week season starting in December 2026. This isn't just any panto; the Palladium’s annual festive offering has become a cornerstone of the British Christmas experience, known for its high production values and star-studded casts. Bringing French and Saunders into the fold elevates the 2026 season into a genuine cultural event.

Wait, there's more to the roster than just our comedy queens. They’ll be joining a seasoned troupe of Palladium regulars who have turned this theatre into their second home during the winter months. The chemistry between the established cast and the new additions is expected to be electric, especially with the improv-heavy nature of panto.

What's interesting is that this reunion reportedly fulfills a long-held dream for the pair. After years of individual projects—ranging from The Vicar of Dibley to Absolutely Fabulous—returning to their roots in live performance feels like a full-circle moment for the duo who defined British sketch comedy for a generation.

Central Figures

The production features a 'who's who' of British entertainment talent:

• Dawn French & Jennifer Saunders: The legendary comedy duo taking on the roles of the Ugly Sisters.
• Julian Clary: The Master of Ceremonies and a Palladium panto staple, returning as Dandini.
• Hope Dawe: Set to play the title role of Cinderella.
• Rob Madge: The TikTok sensation and West End star returning for another year of festive fun.
• Dex Lee: Joining the cast as the Prince.

It won't be pretty! We are so excited to finally be doing this together at the Palladium.

What This Means

For theatre-goers in the UK, this is the ultimate Christmas ticket. The London Palladium panto is a massive driver for West End tourism, often selling out months in advance. The addition of French and Saunders is likely to trigger a 'gold rush' for tickets, potentially breaking previous box office records for the venue.

Beyond the laughs, this represents a significant moment for the industry. Seeing two female comedy pioneers headline a major commercial production reminds us of their enduring clout. For families, it’s a chance to see legends in the flesh; for the industry, it’s a guaranteed hit that supports hundreds of backstage jobs during the most critical time of the theatrical calendar.

What to Expect

If you're planning to attend, keep your eyes peeled. Pre-sale tickets are already opening, and general sales will follow shortly. Expect a show packed with double entendres, lavish costumes, and the trademark physical comedy that made French and Saunders household names. The show will run for five weeks, usually concluding in mid-January 2027.

FAQ

When do French and Saunders start at the Palladium?
They will appear in Cinderella starting in December 2026 for a five-week run.

Who else is in the Cinderella cast?
The cast includes Julian Clary, Rob Madge, Hope Dawe, and Dex Lee alongside the comedy duo.

How can I get tickets for the 2026 Palladium panto?
Tickets are available via the official London Palladium website and major ticket retailers; pre-sales have already begun.

Is this the first time they have performed together recently?
Yes, this marks their first major stage reunion in 17 years.