THE stars of the world's most successful internet TV show have been filming in Leeds.
Ralf Little, best-known as affable goon Antony in The Royle Family, now plays one of the lead characters in interactive internet drama KateModern, screened on social-networking site Bebo.
And despite shooting their scenes on a dreary grey day on W
oodhouse Moor, which did little to dispel the idea that it's "grim up north", the London-based actors were full of praise for the "vibrant" city.
Ralf, who grew up in Manchester but has lived in London for the past six years, said: "I've been to Leeds a few times – the nightlife's amazing.
"I know it quite well and I've always loved coming here – it's really vibrant."
The scenes being shot yesterday were part of the characters' road trip from London to Manchester, Leeds and Edinburgh – the first time they have left London.
Students and passers-by in the Hyde Park area are expected to feature as extras in the final cut and the events in Leeds will feature in just one episode.
Leeds was chosen for its large student communities, so they could promote the show among their target audience and involve them in the filming process.
KateModern follows the lives of a group of 20-somethings who film and blog their way through life.
The genre has been dubbed "Snack TV" as it is delivered in bite-sized chunks of just a few minutes every day.
While the main storylines are fixed, fans help shape the content via web messages.
Asked if he would reprise the role of downtrodden Antony, Ralf, 28, said he would jump at the chance.
"Fingers crossed they decide to do another Royle Family. I'd be thrilled – who wouldn't be?"
The full article contains 296 words and appears in EP Leeds First & County newspaper.
