After a three-year hiatus, the beloved satirical panel show Mock the Week is poised to return to screens, breathing life back into its signature blend of humour and current affairs. Originally axed by the BBC in 2022 after 17 successful years, the show will now grace the airwaves of TLC, with its first episode airing on 1 February 2026, at 9pm.
A New Era for Mock the Week
The cancellation of Mock the Week came as a shock to many fans, who had enjoyed the witty banter and sharp commentary on recent events. BBC executives justified the decision as a necessary step to make room for fresh programming. Yet, the producers remained optimistic, hinting at a potential revival. That optimism has now materialised, with Irish comedian Dara Ó Briain returning as host for a brand-new nine-episode series.
The revamped version promises to retain its classic format, where six comedians engage in lively discussions about the week’s news, but with a twist. Episodes will now run for a full hour, doubling the previous length, allowing for deeper dives into the stories that shape our world. Iconic rounds like “If This Is the Answer, What Is the Question?” and “Scenes We’d Like to See” will make a comeback, while exciting new segments are set to be introduced.
Star-Studded Line-Up
The upcoming series will feature a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent. Alongside Ó Briain, viewers can expect appearances from notable comedians such as Katherine Ryan, Rhys James, and Sara Pascoe. The show will also welcome back Mock the Week veterans Hugh Dennis, Russell Howard, and Ed Byrne, who have all made significant contributions to the series over the years.
Other comedians joining the panel include Angela Barnes, Ahir Shah, Milton Jones, Sarah Keyworth, Lou Sanders, Glenn Moore, and Ellie Taylor, with more names likely to be announced as the premiere date approaches.
Ó Briain expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the show. In a light-hearted tone, he remarked, “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 that his role primarily involves pressing a buzzer and distributing imaginary points, a task he is more than ready to resume.
Navigating Controversy
While Mock the Week has always embraced playful jabs and banter, Ó Briain has previously addressed the nature of the humour, particularly regarding the jokes aimed at him. In an interview, he clarified that the ribbing he receives is not bullying, as he holds a position of authority as the host. “It’s grand,” he stated, referring to the camaraderie among the panelists. “A lot of it was from Ed Byrne, who is one of my closest friends. So I think it’s allowable.”
Reflecting on the show’s cancellation, Ó Briain quipped that it stemmed from “the UK finally running out of news,” given the tumultuous events of the past few years. “The storylines were getting crazier and crazier,” he recalled, pointing to a landscape filled with global pandemics and political upheaval that made the show’s comedic efforts feel almost redundant.
Why it Matters
The return of Mock the Week is not just a revival of a popular show; it signifies a broader cultural appetite for satirical commentary in a world increasingly saturated with serious news. As society grapples with complex issues—be it politics, climate change, or social justice—programmes like this provide a necessary outlet for humour and reflection. They remind us that laughter can coexist with the seriousness of life, allowing audiences to engage with current events in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. As it returns to our screens, Mock the Week stands poised to reclaim its place in the hearts of viewers and continue its legacy of sharp wit and insightful commentary.
