Acclaimed sitcom Ghosts has become a highlight of the festive schedules for many viewers over the years, with the latest special episode earning a coveted spot on Christmas Day itself.

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The brand new episode will see the ghosts scramble to prepare a special present for Alison (Charlotte Ritchie), after her family visit with husband Mike (Kiell Smith-Bynoe) doesn't go exactly to plan.

Ritchie told RadioTimes.com that what they come up with will be a "treat" for the fans as much as it is for her character.

The official synopsis also teases a tough Christmas for resident scoutmaster Pat (Jim Howick), who will be left questioning everything he thought he knew about his mortal life.

The genius team behind Ghosts have a good track record for delivering Christmas specials full of heart and plenty of laughs – this looks to be no exception. Read on for everything you need to know.

Ghosts Christmas special 2022 release date

Ghosts Christmas special 2022 key art
Ghosts Christmas special 2022 key art BBC/Monumental/Guido Mandozzi

The Ghosts Christmas special 2022, titled It's Behind You, will be broadcast on BBC One at 7:25pm on Christmas Day.

This represents a prestigious promotion for the acclaimed sitcom as its previous festive episodes have aired on the 23rd December, slightly removed from the big day itself.

It has now been confirmed that Ghosts will return for season 5 in 2023, so this won't be the last we see of its beloved cast of characters.

Ghosts Christmas special 2022 cast

The Ghosts Christmas special will see Charlotte Ritchie and Kiell Smith-Bynoe reprise their roles as Alison and Mike Cooper, the young married couple responsible for Button House and its inhabitants.

Series creators Mathew Baynton (Thomas), Simon Farnaby (Julian), Martha Howe-Douglas (Lady Button), Jim Howick (Pat), Laurence Rickard (Robin/Humphrey) and Ben Willbond (the Captain) are also back, along with comic Lolly Adefope as Kitty.

This is the first Christmas special not to feature former co-star Katy Wix, who played witch trial victim Mary, after her emotional farewell partway through the fourth season.

What is the Ghosts Christmas special 2022 about?

Jim Howick as Pat in Ghosts.

The official synopsis reads (via BBC): "A festive trip down memory lane prompts Pat to question his very identity. The ghosts come up with a surprise Christmas present for Alison, whose family lunch does not go to plan."

The trailer for the special (see below) reveals that the present in question is pantomime-themed, which is also echoed in the title of the episode: It's Behind You.

Is there a trailer for the Ghosts Christmas special 2022?

Check out the TV spot for this year's Ghosts Christmas special below, which offers a glimpse at the joyful present our favourite spectres have cooked up for Alison. Watch now:

Ghosts returns to BBC One on Christmas Day. Catch up on previous episodes on BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.

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