Mock the Week Returns with a Fresh, Rotating Panel

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. he-week-returns-with-a-fresh-rotating-panel.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 16:55 GMT by Radio Times
      Locales: UNITED KINGDOM, IRELAND

Mock the Week Returns: A Revival Driven by Enthusiasm and a Fresh Approach

After a three-year absence, the beloved topical panel show Mock the Week has returned to BBC Two with a six-part series, promising a revitalized take on current affairs and comedic banter. The cancellation of the show in 2022 sparked disappointment amongst fans, making its resurrection a welcome surprise for many. But what prompted this return, and what can audiences expect from the new series?

Speaking with Radio Times, host Dara O Briain revealed his initial reluctance towards reviving the show. "I was. I really was. I didn't want to do it. The show's done. It's been a good run. Let it go," he stated. However, the enthusiasm of the production team and the opportunity to once again contribute to the comedic landscape eventually swayed him. "But then I realised, actually, the people who wanted to do it are enthusiastic, and we're getting this opportunity to say something... and I missed it a little bit."

This revival isn't simply a rehash of the old format. A significant change is the complete overhaul of the team dynamic. Gone are the regular co-hosts that were a staple of the show for nearly two decades. Instead, each episode will feature a rotating cast of comedians, bringing a new energy and unpredictability to the panel. O Briain acknowledges this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. "It forces us to keep things fresh, and it's quite fun, but also means a lot more work in some respects." This shift suggests a deliberate attempt to avoid stagnation and maintain a dynamic comedic environment.

For O Briain, returning to Mock the Week feels deeply familiar. "It feels like coming home, genuinely. Like seeing friends you haven't seen for a long time but you know you're going to have a good time with. It's familiar and comfortable." However, the weight of expectation and the changing landscape of comedy are not lost on him. "But also, there's the pressure of making sure it's still funny. Things have changed a lot, humour has changed a lot, and audiences have changed a lot. So we have to be aware of that."

The evolution of humour is a central theme in the show's comeback. O Briain points out the fragmentation of comedic tastes, noting that "There's no one 'funny' thing" anymore. In response, the revived Mock the Week aims to be more inclusive of diverse comedic voices and perspectives. "I think we've tried to address that by having more voices on the panel and trying to be more open to different perspectives." This suggests a move away from a monolithic approach to humour, embracing a wider spectrum of comedic styles to appeal to a more diverse audience.

Mock the Week originally debuted in 2005, quickly becoming a cornerstone of British comedy and a go-to source for satirical commentary on current events. Its long run established a loyal fanbase who appreciated its quick wit, sharp observations, and the chemistry between the regular panelists. However, by 2022, the show had seemingly run its course, falling victim to budgetary constraints and changing television trends. The decision to cancel it sparked debate about the future of topical comedy on British television, with some arguing that the format had become predictable and reliant on tired tropes.

The revival signals a potential response to the shifting media landscape, recognizing the enduring appeal of topical comedy while attempting to address the criticisms leveled against the original series. The format changes, particularly the rotating panel, are designed to keep the show fresh and unpredictable, preventing it from becoming stale. The emphasis on diverse perspectives aims to broaden its appeal and resonate with a wider audience.

So, what can viewers anticipate from this new iteration of Mock the Week? "Expect a lot of jokes. Expect a lot of topical news being mocked. Expect to see some new faces alongside the old. And expect us to try and be funny," O Briain promises. While the core premise remains the same - dissecting the week's news with a comedic lens - the revamped format and renewed energy suggest a show eager to prove its relevance in a rapidly changing world. Mock the Week returned to BBC Two on Tuesday January 30th at 10pm, offering a welcome dose of satirical wit to the start of 2026.