Taskmaster Returns Earlier Than Expected: New Series Launch Date Confirmed

The eagerly awaited return of the much-loved comedy show, "Taskmaster," has been confirmed with a launch date earlier than anticipated. Fans of the show, which sees comedians pitted against each other in a series of increasingly ludicrous tasks, will have to wait less than a month to witness the chaotic shenanigans unfold.

The upcoming 18th series will feature a stellar lineup of comedians: Rosie Jones, Jack Dee, Andy Zaltzman, Babatunde Aléshé, and Emma Sidi, who will be vying for the coveted Taskmaster trophy and the approval of the imposing Greg Davies, alongside the ever-faithful sidekick Little Alex Horne.

Channel 4 has announced that the premiere episode will air on Thursday, September 12 at 9 pm, marking a slight departure from the traditional late September launch date. The news comes as a welcome surprise to fans who have been eagerly awaiting a new season since the conclusion of the 17th series, which saw John Robins crowned the champion.

To celebrate the announcement, the official "Taskmaster" Instagram account shared a first glimpse of the new set, showcasing a nautical theme with a submarine-inspired annex, hinting at a series full of underwater-themed tasks.

The excitement surrounding the new series is further fuelled by the launch of "Taskmaster: The Live Experience" the following month, on October 2. This event will allow fans to participate in a series of amusing tasks, testing their ingenuity and wit, similar to their favourite television show. Tickets for this live experience are already available.

While anticipation builds for the 18th series, the show's producers are already looking ahead to the 19th, with Horne recently hinting at the possibility of a "big name" appearing in the next series. Appearing on "Sunday Brunch," Horne addressed concerns that the show might eventually run out of comedians to feature. He reassured viewers that while they might run out of "legendary" comedians like Dara Ó Briain and Frank Skinner, there is always a new generation of talent emerging. He also revealed a major first for the show, stating that the 19th series will include a "big name" from overseas, adding another layer of excitement to the upcoming season.

"Taskmaster" will return on Thursday, September 12 on Channel 4. Viewers can also stream previous series on Channel 4's on-demand service.