If something draws comparisons to the dystopian series that is Black Mirror, you’d probably assume it’s really not good news.
However a new Channel 4 show is drawing comparisons to Charlie Brooker’s creation and it’s sure to split audiences straight down the middle.
Ghost, which is a working title , is described as “a profoundly moving, revelatory and ultimately uplifting television first”.
The show will see terminally-ill people deliver messages to their loved ones via hologram. The format has led to comparisons with Black Mirror’s ‘Be Right Back’ episode, in which a woman discovers she could continue communicating with her dead boyfriend through artificial intelligence.
Six terminally-ill people will “create incredible experiences to comfort the loved ones they are leaving behind, which will be delivered after their death”.
The contributors, of varied ages, will write and record messages for their closest relatives and loved ones.
“Using cutting-edge holographic technology,” the “deeply personal missives” will be “delivered post-mortem, by the subjects themselves in vivid, three-dimensional, holographic form, allowing them to appear as if from beyond the grave”.
Speaking about the origins of the new show, Jonah Weston, Channel 4 commissioning editor for specialist factual, said: “Death is the ultimate taboo and I think many people find it hard to say what they really feel in those last moments.
“To have the chance to leave messages and final wishes for the people you love most is an incredible opportunity, and I am humbled by the people taking part and excited by seeing what they say from ‘beyond the grave’.”
Each contributor will record three or four personal messages “encouraging those they love to move forward, heal old wounds, or chase their dreams”.
They will be delivered via their own hologram “in a range of settings pertinent to the contents of the message, whether a favourite restaurant or the family living room”.
“Death is an inevitable part of the life-cycle, but its finality is often abrupt and heart-rending. Working closely with British psychologists, bereavement experts and holographic technology we’ve created an opportunity to enable some families to see and remember their relative or friend looking and sounding vibrant and healthy in vivid 3D holographic form – delivering a personal message that could only come from them,” said Simon Andreae, the format creator of the show.
“We feel very privileged that the contributors have let us share their loss, and we hope the messages their loved ones have left comfort their families, help them cope with their grief and inspire them throughout their lives.”