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Channel 4 Extends Taskmaster for Three More Years

4/2/2026, 7:50:52 PM

Renewal of the Popular Comedy Series

Channel 4 has officially commissioned six additional series of the acclaimed comedy game show, Taskmaster, ensuring its presence on the network for another three years. This renewal includes the return of popular spin-off specials such as Taskmaster’s New Year Treat and Taskmaster Champion of Champions, which will feature Greg Davies as the Taskmaster and Alex Horne as his assistant. The series, which originally launched in 2015 on UKTV’s Dave channel before moving to Channel 4 in 2020, has garnered significant acclaim, including BAFTA and Rose d'Or awards.

Audience Engagement and Global Reach

The show's popularity has surged, with its official YouTube channel amassing over 1.4 billion views globally. In 2025, Taskmaster's viewership on the channel increased by 69%, reaching 426 million annual views, while North American viewership rose by 70% to 243 million. The series has also expanded its digital footprint, with all episodes available for free streaming on Channel 4 and its YouTube channel, alongside international versions from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada.

Upcoming Series and Contestants

The 21st series of Taskmaster is set to premiere on April 9, featuring a diverse lineup of contestants, including Pakistani-American comedian Kumail Nanjiani, Armando Iannucci, Joanna Page, Joel Dommett, and Amy Gledhill. Alex Horne hinted at exciting future developments, teasing the inclusion of an Oscar winner in a subsequent season.

Official Statements

Tom Beck, Channel 4's Head of Live Events and Commissioning Editor, expressed enthusiasm for the show's renewal, stating, "Taskmaster is the most creative, funny and frankly ludicrous show on telly; I’m delighted to enable their silly brilliance for another three years." Greg Davies echoed this sentiment, remarking, "I am delighted the comedian meat grinder remains open for business. I look forward to gleefully keeping it fed with the help of a small, introverted man that I own."

Criticism & Opposition

While the series enjoys widespread popularity, some critics argue that the format may become repetitive over time, potentially diminishing its appeal. However, the show's consistent ability to attract new viewers and adapt its content has largely countered these concerns.

What's Next

With the renewal confirmed, fans can anticipate not only the upcoming series but also the continued expansion of Taskmaster's international versions. The show's ability to engage audiences across various platforms suggests a promising future as it continues to innovate and entertain.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Taskmaster is the most creative, funny and frankly ludicrous show on telly; I’m delighted to enable their silly brilliance for another three years” — Tom Beck, Head of Live Events and Commissioning Editor, Channel 4
  • “I am delighted the comedian meat grinder remains open for business. I look forward to gleefully keeping it fed with the help of a small, introverted man that I own.” — Greg Davies, Taskmaster