Fans of sharp, satirical comedy have reason to celebrate as the iconic panel show Mock the Week is officially confirmed for a major comeback next month.
A New Home for Anarchic Comedy
After being dropped by the BBC in 2022 following an impressive 17-year run, the programme is being resurrected on the free-to-air channel TLC. The revival kicks off with a nine-episode series, promising the same rapid-fire humour that made it a cult favourite.
The first episode will air on Sunday, 1st February at 9pm, marking a triumphant return to television screens. Leading the charge once more is the show's familiar host, Dara O Briain, who expressed genuine delight at the programme's resurrection.
Stellar Line-Up and Extended Episodes
In a significant upgrade for viewers, the new series will feature hour-long episodes, allowing more space for the daring jokes and anarchic energy the show is known for. Joining Dara is a formidable roster of comedy talent confirmed for the new series.
The line-up includes 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 names still to be announced.
The format will stay true to its roots, featuring classic rounds such as 'If This is the Answer, What Is the Question?', 'Wheel of News', 'Picture of the Week', and 'Scenes We'd Like to See'. Producers have also promised brand new rounds specifically designed for the extended 60-minute runtime.
Host's Humble Take on the Return
Dara O Briain, 53, shared his characteristically witty thoughts on the show's return. "I'm genuinely delighted to be back doing Mock the Week and on TLC," he said. "From what I remember, it's a show that thrives on silly jokes from smart people and any actual insight is purely accidental."
He added, "Also, 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! That's how easy it is." The host also quipped that the return is "just in time to confuse people who had only just heard it had been cancelled."
Reflecting on the BBC's decision to axe the show in 2022 after over 200 episodes, Dara previously admitted to mixed feelings. He noted the bittersweet irony that public affection for the programme seemed to surge only after it was gone, following years of critics labelling it as "rubbish."
The wait for the show's chaotic energy and political satire is nearly over. Mock the Week returns on Sunday 1st February at 9pm on TLC.
