Full Breakdown
Taskmaster Season 20: A New Lineup of Comedic Talent
9/12/2025, 1:10:04 PM
Overview of the Season
Taskmaster, the popular comedy panel show, has returned for its 20th season on Channel 4, premiering on September 11, 2025. Hosted by Greg Davies and his assistant Alex Horne, the show features a new lineup of five comedians who will face a series of humorous and challenging tasks designed to test their creativity and comedic skills.
Cast of Contestants
The contestants for this season include:
- Ania Magliano (27): A comedian and writer known for her work on shows like Amelia Dimoldenberg's Chicken Shop Date and Frankie Boyle's New World Order. She gained recognition as a finalist in the Funny Women Awards in 2020 and won Best New Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival in 2022.
- Maisie Adam (31): A stand-up comedian recognized for her appearances on Mock the Week and A League of Their Own. Adam has also participated in Celebrity MasterMind and is known for her stand-up special Appraisal.
- Phil Ellis (44): A stand-up comedian with a notable presence on shows like The Russell Howard Hour and Drunk History (UK). He is also known for his BBC Radio 4 series Phil Ellis Is Trying and will embark on a nationwide tour for his latest show, Bath Mat.
- Reece Shearsmith (56): An actor and comedian best known for his work on The League of Gentlemen and the sitcom Psychoville. He has also starred in the dark comedy anthology Inside No. 9 and appeared in films such as Saltburn and See How They Run.
- Sanjeev Bhaskar (61): An actor and comedian famous for his roles in Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No. 42. He currently stars as DI Sunny Khan in the ITV series Unforgotten and has appeared in all three Paddington films.
Format and Challenges
This season promises a variety of tasks that will challenge the contestants' daring, dexterity, and dignity. The first episode featured challenges involving "codes, gym balls, and disgusting noises," aimed at eliciting both laughter and silliness from the participants. The tasks are designed to be entertaining and unpredictable, with the contestants often finding themselves in humorous predicaments.
Viewer Reception
Early reactions from viewers have been positive, with many expressing excitement about the new cast. Social media comments highlight the humor and charm of the contestants, with fans quickly becoming attached to their antics. Maisie Adam, in particular, has garnered attention for her chaotic energy during the challenges.
Official Statements & Responses
Greg Davies and Alex Horne have expressed their enthusiasm for the new season, emphasizing the show's ability to entertain audiences with its unique blend of humor and absurdity. The duo has been a staple of the show since its inception, and their dynamic continues to resonate with viewers.
What's Next
Taskmaster Season 20 will air weekly on Thursdays at 9 PM on Channel 4, featuring ten episodes that will run through mid-November. Each episode will present new challenges and comedic moments, ensuring that fans remain engaged throughout the season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Forget the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or Cambridge’s Footlights troupe, Taskmaster is the real golden ticket.” — iNews
- “ "This cast is so funny already, I don't miss series 19 so much anymore.” — Viewer comment
- “Maisie is killing me already she’s so chaotic #Taskmaster," joked another.” — Viewer comment
- “The difficulty was, I didn’t blow the budget when it came to getting the outfit.” — Maisie Adam
Taskmaster's return marks a significant milestone in its history, continuing to captivate audiences with its innovative format and talented cast.
