Channel 4's beloved and bizarre comedy show, Taskmaster, has sent fans into a frenzy with the announcement of its five new celebrity contestants for the upcoming 21st series.
A Genius and Star-Studded Cast
The new cohort promises to be one of the most acclaimed in the show's history. The line-up features Marvel actor and Oscar nominee Kumail Nanjiani, known for his role in 'Eternals', and the celebrated satirist Armando Iannucci, the creator of 'The Thick of It' and 'Veep', who is also an Oscar nominee.
This marks a significant milestone for the programme, as it will be the first time Taskmaster has featured two Oscar-nominated contestants in a single series. They are joined by popular comedian Amy Gledhill, Gavin & Stacey star Joanna Page, and The Masked Singer presenter Joel Dommett.
Fan Excitement and Anticipated Return
Reaction to the announcement on Sunday, 4 January 2026, has been overwhelmingly positive. Enthusiasts of the show have flooded social media with praise, describing the selection as 'genius' and expressing particular delight at the inclusion of Kumail Nanjiani, whose comedic pedigree is expected to shine in the show's uniquely absurd challenges.
Based on the scheduling of previous seasons, the popular Channel 4 series is anticipated to return to screens in March 2026. The new contestants will soon be seen attempting to impress the Taskmaster, Greg Davies, and his assistant, Alex Horne, with their inventive and often hilarious attempts at completing a series of peculiar tasks.
What to Expect from Series 21
Viewers can look forward to the classic Taskmaster formula of creative chaos, where celebrities are pushed to their limits. From eating yogurt off a shoe to constructing elaborate contraptions, the show's unpredictable nature is its biggest draw. With such a diverse and talented group of contestants, Series 21 is poised to deliver some of the show's most memorable moments yet.
The blend of sharp-witted satire from Iannucci, blockbuster star power from Nanjiani, and established UK comedy talent from Gledhill, Page, and Dommett creates a dynamic mix that is sure to captivate both long-time fans and new audiences.
