It’s Showtime, 16 April 2024, ITV1 and ITVX

In this feature-length documentary, viewers are taken on a journey to the heart of County Durham, where a group of working-class men from Darlington made a life-changing decision over a few beers. Their story, “It’s Showtime,” captures the power of friendship, dreams, and the thrill of the racetrack.

The documentary, premiering on ITV1 on Tuesday 16 April, begins with a group of friends, Anth, Ste, Dog, Baz, Mike, Jeff, and Nick, who, on a fateful night, decided to pool their money to buy a racehorse. Their decision was inspired by a shared love for racing and a desire to seek some fun and excitement. Little did they know that their bargain-basement horse, Showtime Mahomes, named after NFL quarterback Patrick ‘Showtime’ Mahomes, would soon change their lives forever.

Showtime Mahomes, a three-year-old sprinter with no proven pedigree, defied the odds and won at York in May 2022, defeating high-pedigree favourites. This astonishing feat brought the group of friends together, forming an unbreakable bond. As Showtime Mahomes returned to the racetrack in 2023, the film captures the nail-biting action and the emotional backstories of the men behind the racehorse.

The Muffed Punt Partnership, as they call themselves, gather at their base, the Railway Athletic Club in Darlington, to discuss their horse’s prospects for the upcoming year, dreaming of another win at York, known as the Ascot of the North. Showtime Mahomes, now a four-year-old in his racing prime, faces the challenge of recapturing his former glory.

“It’s Showtime” showcases the power of friendship, love, and laughter, as these men from Darlington prove that anything is possible. The film provides a unique perspective on the world of horse racing, highlighting the joy and excitement it brings to people from all walks of life.

“It’s Showtime” airs on ITV1 and ITVX at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, 16 April 2024.