ITV's critically acclaimed programme The Assembly has been renewed for a third series, following its recognition as one of the best shows of 2026 by The Guardian. The show features a unique format where interviewers who are autistic, neurodivergent, or learning disabled question celebrities, often asking unexpected and revealing questions.
Viewership and Critical Acclaim
The Assembly has been streamed 6.9 million times and drawn over 10 million viewers across ITV channels and ITVX. Its YouTube figures have reached 2 million and continue to rise. The Guardian praised the show as a "delightful gem" in a five-star review, naming it among the best TV shows of 2026.
Celebrity Participants and Format
Past series featured celebrities including Sir Stephen Fry, Sir Lenny Henry, Rylan, and Nicola Sturgeon. The upcoming third series will consist of six 30-minute episodes, plus bonus montage episodes titled Unseen and More Unseen. The six new celebrity participants are yet to be announced.
Production and Collaboration
The series is created by Rockerdale Studios, who have worked alongside autistic and neurodivergent organisations to ensure the show operates for and with autistic and neurodivergent voices. Katie Rawcliffe, Director of Entertainment, Reality & Daytime Commissioning at ITV, said: "We're immensely proud of this series. The Assembly takes the celebrities and viewers on a complete rollercoaster ride - it really is a show where you have to expect the unexpected."
Quotes from Production Team
David Smyth, Entertainment & Reality Commissioning Editor at ITV, remarked: "There are so many more celebrities who need The Assembly experience. Everyone that's done it walks away saying it's the best thing they've ever done, and the warmth we receive from fans and critics alike shows viewers agree. We can't wait to get cracking with more." Michelle Singer from Rockerdale Studios added: "That we get to return to ask more questions of even more celebrities is thrilling, of course. That our brilliant team on and behind the cameras can come back to do what, collectively, we do best is wonderful." Stu Richards, also from Rockerdale Studios, said: "Crikey, here we go again, I'm buzzing. I can't wait to make a show in which we ask Queen Camilla about her first kiss or The Pope how often he clips his toenails. To be clear we haven't booked any of those people, I'm just manifesting."
Availability
Series one and two of The Assembly are currently available to stream on ITVX.
