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Hero image for The Pretender - Series Two, Episode One

The Pretender - Series Two, Episode One

Television (Full Length Episode) – 2008

In the 2000s mockumentary realism (led by The Office) was making its mark in television comedy. Series The Pretender gave Kiwi politics the embedded camera treatment, with expat comedian Bob Maclaren playing overconfident property developer-turned-MP Dennis Plant. The first episode of the second series sees Plant cause political chaos, with the launch of his Future New Zealand party. This season was nominated for three Qantas TV Awards in 2009, including Best Comedy. The Pretender was created by Peter Cox (Insider’s Guide to Happiness) and Great Southern TV boss Philip Smith.

Who hoists the flag on top of Mt Everest ... bloody Dennis Plant you know!
– Dennis Plant (Bob MacLaren)

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