The program, which seeks to find new playwriting talent, climaxes with the winning writer’s play receiving its world premiere in the West End at the New Ambassador’s Theatre.

In a statement, the production’s spokesperson described Pimlott’s condition as being serious. The director’s work was last seen in the West End with last year’s Agatha Christie revival And Then There Were None.

Director Robert Delamere (Shoot the Crow, Thomas More, Whistling Psyche) will step in for Pimlott, and the production will now receive its first preview two days later than planned on June 14. The press night is still scheduled for June 22.

The winning play, which is being produced by Sonia Friedman, has been chosen from scripts submitted by as many as 2,000 hopefuls. The judges are Friedman, literary agent Mel Kenyon and actor Neil Pearson.

The June-transmitted series will follow every step of staging a West End show, from first day of rehearsals and the play's previews to the nerve-shredding opening night. Friedman’s most recent productions include Jonathan Kent’s critically acclaimed revival of Friel’s Faith Healer starring Ralph Fiennes, currently running at Broadway’s Booth Theatre.