Mock The Week Returns with Dara Ó Briain at the Helm for New TLC Series

Get ready for more topical gags and sharp wit as Mock The Week is set to make a comeback. Three years after its BBC cancellation, the beloved panel show is returning for a new run on the TLC channel, with Irish comedian Dara Ó Briain confirmed to reprise his role as host. The revival promises fresh episodes and a slightly tweaked format, much to the delight of fans eager for its return to screens.

Key Takeaways

• Dara Ó Briain is returning to host Mock The Week.

• Nine new episodes will air on TLC starting February 1st.

• The show was cancelled by the BBC three years ago.

• Several familiar panellists, including Hugh Dennis and Russell Howard, are set to return.

• The format will include new rounds and extended episode lengths.

A Familiar Face Returns

Dara Ó Briain has confirmed his return to host the revived Mock The Week, expressing his enthusiasm for the show's comeback. He revealed that discussions for a revival began only a few months prior, with the process moving swiftly. Ó Briain dismissed concerns about potentially impacting the show's legacy, stating, "It's just seven people in a room telling jokes."

Star-Studded Panel

Joining Ó Briain will be a mix of familiar and new faces. Perennial favourite Hugh Dennis is back, alongside former regulars such as Russell Howard, Angela Barnes, Ed Byrne, Katherine Ryan, Milton Jones, Rhys James, Sara Pascoe, and Glenn Moore. The line-up will also feature Ahir Shah, Ellie Taylor, Sarah Keyworth, and Lou Sanders, with the promise of "more new names alongside the familiar ones."

Format Changes and Topical Humour

While the core of the show remains "us talking," there will be some adjustments to the format. Episodes will be extended from 30 minutes to an hour, and new rounds will be introduced. Ó Briain noted that while there are no drastic changes like musical sequences or nudity, the extended runtime will allow for more content. He also highlighted how the current political landscape, with a Labour government in power, will influence the show's topical humour, shifting the focus from Conservative policies to the actions of Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves.

Production Details

Filming for the nine new episodes is scheduled to commence later this month, with recordings taking place at Elstree Film & TV Studios in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, starting January 27th. Free tickets for the recordings are available through SRO Audiences. The show, originally produced by Angst Productions for BBC Two from 2005 to 2022, is now set to air on TLC from February 1st.

Sources

• Dara Ó Briain returns to host Mock The Week, with panellists revealed, British Comedy Guide.