In a sudden programming shift, the BBC has announced that Michael McIntyre's Big Show will not air on Saturday, February 14, as originally scheduled. The popular entertainment programme has been temporarily removed from the BBC One lineup to accommodate extensive FA Cup football coverage.
Football Coverage Disrupts Regular Broadcasting
The decision comes as Aston Villa versus Newcastle United match coverage begins at 5:30 PM, with kickoff scheduled for 5:45 PM at Villa Park. The football transmission is set to run until 8:00 PM, completely occupying the time slot typically reserved for Michael McIntyre's variety show.
Rescheduled Episode Details
BBC officials have confirmed that the next episode of Michael McIntyre's Big Show will now air on Saturday, February 21, at 8:15 PM on BBC One. The broadcaster made the announcement via Instagram, reassuring disappointed fans that the show would return with its usual celebrity lineup.
This marks the eighth season for the highly successful programme, which first debuted in 2015 and has become a Saturday night staple for millions of viewers. The show features Michael McIntyre's signature comedy segments, including the popular "Send To All" prank where he takes control of celebrities' mobile phones to send humorous messages to their entire contact lists.
Programming Chain Reaction
The schedule disruption has created a domino effect across BBC One's Saturday evening programming. Following the football coverage, Gladiators will now air at 8:00 PM, with The Weakest Link following at 9:00 PM. This represents the second major programming change in recent weeks, following similar adjustments to the Gladiators broadcast schedule.
Recent Celebrity Appearances
Last weekend's episode featured Irish pop group Westlife as unexpected participants in one of McIntyre's comedy segments. With assistance from The One Show presenter Alex Jones, band members Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, and Kian Egan found themselves performing their greatest hits before a surprised audience at The Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
The appearance generated significant social media buzz, with many viewers praising Alex Jones' performance and suggesting she would be an excellent candidate to fill vacant presenting roles on other BBC programmes, particularly Strictly Come Dancing following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Viewer Reactions and Speculation
Social media platforms have been active with discussions about the schedule change and potential casting developments. One viewer commented on platform X: "This Keeping Up With The Jones' segment is making me think Alex Jones would be great for Strictly." Another added: "After watching Alex Jones on #michaelmcintyresbigshow, I wouldn't mind her doing the Tess role on Strictly."
The BBC has not commented on any potential casting decisions but continues to focus on delivering quality entertainment programming despite the necessary schedule adjustments for major sporting events.
