Fans of sharp, satirical comedy can rejoice, as the iconic panel show Mock the Week is officially making a comeback to television screens next month.
A Triumphant Return for a Comedy Staple
The programme, which was controversially dropped by the BBC in 2022 after an impressive 17-year run and over 200 episodes, has found a new home. It will be resurrected on the free-to-air channel TLC. The revival kicks off with the first episode airing on Sunday, February 1 at 9pm.
Leading the charge once more will be the show's familiar host, Dara O Briain. The format promises to deliver the daring humour, rapid-fire challenges, and anarchic energy that defined its original run, but now in extended, hour-long episodes.
Stellar Line-Up and Classic Format
Joining Dara for the new nine-episode series is a formidable roster of comedic talent. Confirmed names include Rhys James, Sara Pascoe, Angela Barnes, Ed Byrne, Ahir Shah, Milton Jones, Katherine Ryan, Hugh Dennis, Sarah Keyworth, Lou Sanders, Glenn Moore, Ellie Taylor, and Russell Howard, with more acts still to be announced.
The series will stay true to its roots, featuring beloved rounds such as:
- If This is the Answer, What Is the Question?
- Wheel of News
- Picture of the Week
- Scenes We'd Like to See
Additionally, the longer runtime will allow for brand new rounds, offering even more space for the panel's audacious jokes and surprising commentary.
Host's Delight and Bittersweet Memories
Dara O Briain, 53, expressed his genuine delight at the show's return. "I'm genuinely delighted to be back doing Mock the Week and on TLC," he said. He humorously reflected on his role, stating, "From what I remember, my job was mainly just pressing a buzzer and handing out imaginary points. I can still do that. Here, have some imaginary points!"
He also noted the irony of the timing, adding, "It's coming back just in time to confuse people who had only just heard it had been cancelled."
The Irish comedian previously shared his mixed feelings about the BBC's decision to axe the show in 2022. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs in 2023, he called the end "bittersweet," remarking that while the show received criticism during its broadcast, public sentiment seemed to shift positively only after its cancellation.
Mock the Week will begin its new chapter on Sunday 1st February at 9pm on TLC.
