After a three-year hiatus, Dara Ó Briain’s beloved satirical panel show Mock the Week is set to return, this time on the free-to-air channel TLC. The new series, launching on 1 February, promises a fresh take on political humour without the constraints of the BBC’s infamous balance rules, much to the delight of its host.
A New Chapter for Mock the Week
Originally cancelled in 2022 after a successful 17-year run, Mock the Week has made a triumphant comeback with a brand-new nine-episode series. Ó Briain, now 53, expressed his enthusiasm about the shift in networks. “What I won’t miss is the people with stopwatches timing how much we did of each political party,” he shared, highlighting the restrictions that often hampered creativity during its BBC days.
While the format will remain familiar—comedians tackling the week’s news with their trademark wit—the episodes will now be one hour long, doubling the previous runtime. Classic rounds such as “If This Is the Answer, What Is the Question?” and “Scenes We’d Like to See” will return, along with an exciting roster of guests including Katherine Ryan, Rhys James, and Sara Pascoe.
A Fond Farewell to the BBC
Ó Briain reflected positively on the end of the show’s original run, praising the BBC for providing a final series that allowed the cast to celebrate their journey. “The BBC, to their eternal credit, gave us a victory lap,” he noted, fondly recalling how they donned tuxedos to reminisce about their time on the show. “We’ve done the full arc on the show. And now we have a fourth act. This is gravy, my friend.”
Despite the excitement of returning to the airwaves, Ó Briain acknowledged the challenges that come with the show’s format. With seven comedians vying for the spotlight, it can be a tough gig. “It suits some people better than others. It wouldn’t suit me. I could never guest on Mock the Week,” he admitted, underscoring the high-pressure environment of the show.
Navigating Comedy and Gender Dynamics
The comedian also took a moment to address the ongoing discourse surrounding gender representation in comedy. In 2014, he faced backlash for his comments regarding the BBC’s decision to end all-male panels. At the time, he expressed concern that the announcement might inadvertently label female comedians as “token” participants.
In his latest interview, Ó Briain clarified his views, stating, “I didn’t object to the rule; I objected to the publication of the rule.” He emphasised the importance of nurturing female talent in comedy while acknowledging the industry’s gender imbalance. “A certain number of women want to go into comedy and they should be cherished and nurtured,” he concluded, reflecting a nuanced understanding of the challenges in the comedy landscape.
What to Expect in the New Series
With the revival of Mock the Week on TLC, fans can look forward to a blend of familiar faces and new voices. Notable returning panellists include comedy stalwarts Hugh Dennis and Russell Howard, alongside exciting newcomers like Angela Barnes and Ahir Shah. The series promises to uphold its reputation for sharp wit and incisive commentary, making it a must-watch for fans of political satire.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation is building for what Ó Briain and his team will deliver in this fresh incarnation of a beloved show. “It’s not like, ‘Oh, finally Dara is off the leash!’” he remarked, suggesting that while the environment may have changed, the essence of the show remains intact.
Why it Matters
The return of Mock the Week on TLC signifies more than just a revival of a popular series; it represents a shift in the landscape of political comedy. By freeing itself from the constraints of traditional broadcasting rules, the show aims to explore topical issues with a level of honesty and creativity that resonates with audiences. As society grapples with complex political dynamics, the upcoming series promises to be a vital platform for laughter, reflection, and, ultimately, understanding.
