'Spitting Image' could be set for a TV return after Boris Johnson became the British Prime Minister.

Boris Johnson

Boris Johnson

Bosses are said to have been plotting a US pilot for the hugely popular satirical puppet show - which aired on ITV from 1984 to 1996 - and production company Avalon Television is said to be keen to take on both Boris and US President Donald Trump.

An insider told the Mail on Sunday newspaper: "When Boris was elected Tory leader and they realised they had the Boris Johnson and Donald Trump show on their hands, there was a real injection of enthusiasm and things started to happen.

"There isn't a broadcast date as yet and, while it was primarily aimed at the US market because of the Trump factor, Boris Johnson's election has put it right back in the frame for the UK.

"There is a fantastic vibe around the production because of the legendary status of the show, even though it is early days."

The original programme ran for 18 series over 12 years, with viewing figures frequently hitting 15 million.

The show's popularity stemmed from mock depictions of famous figures, including the likes of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan.

Earlier this year, John Lloyd - who produced the original show - suggested that the current political climate would give the team plenty of material to work.

He said: "In this particular climate, I think it's about time 'Spitting Image' had a comeback.

"We have slightly lost our sense of humour in this climate and no one dares speak to anyone.

"'Spitting Image' is very good at airing the issues in a way that make people laugh about them."

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