A stellar lineup of celebrities is set to battle for comedy supremacy in Taskmaster's two-part New Year Treat, airing tonight on Channel 4. The special episode promises a riot of absurd challenges, from confronting a dangerous animal to mastering musical instruments in the most unconventional ways.
Star-Studded Contestants Face Greg Davies's Quirky Challenges
The plucky contestants vying for the coveted golden bust of host Greg Davies are a diverse group from the worlds of sport, music, television, and lexicography. They include former Lioness and football champion Jill Scott, Eurovision sensation Sam Ryder, and TV chef Big Zuu. They are joined by Countdown's Susie Dent from dictionary corner and Strictly Come Dancing winner Rose Ayling-Ellis.
Viewers can expect the classic Taskmaster blend of ingenuity and chaos. The preview hints at one contestant spending a gruelling 20 minutes sweating over a foot pump, while others will be tasked with prodding a hazardous creature and attempting to play the glockenspiel. The results are guaranteed to be unpredictable and hugely entertaining.
A Night of Varied Entertainment Across the Channels
Beyond the antics on Channel 4 at 9pm, tonight's television schedule offers a rich selection of programming. Earlier, at 7.30pm on BBC One, the popular panel show Would I Lie to You? returns. Hosts Rob Brydon, David Mitchell, and Lee Mack will be joined by guests including Yinka Bokinni, Harriet Kemsley, Julie Hesmondhalgh, and Chris McCausland for another half-hour of hilarious deception and revelation.
Also at 7.30pm on Channel 4, the documentary 2025: The Year from Space provides a striking aerial perspective on global events. The programme uses satellite imagery to showcase contrasting scenes of human activity, from the devastating wildfires in California and displacement in Gaza to the immense scale of the Hindu festival Kumbh Mela, which drew 600 million people to the Ganges.
Further Highlights: Travel and Renovation
The evening continues with more adventure and ambition across the channels. At 8pm on Channel 5, I'm a Celebrity favourite Tom Read Wilson embarks on Tom Read Wilson's Magnificent Journey, a modern take on the aristocratic Grand Tour of Europe, starting with etiquette lessons from a Parisian countess.
Later, at 9pm on Channel 5, national treasure Jane McDonald begins an epic six-part voyage From Pole to Pole, starting in Antarctica with helicopter flights over icebergs and a champagne toast on her yacht. Not to be outdone, Amanda Holden and Alan Carr face their biggest renovation challenge yet at 9.35pm on BBC One in Amanda & Alan's Greek Job. The pair attempt to transform a crumbling Corfu property into a Mamma Mia!-worthy villa, with a heartwarming detour to a donkey sanctuary along the way.
For sports fans, live Premiership Rugby Union is also on offer, with Bristol taking on Sale at Ashton Gate, broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 from 7pm.
