Comic's first time helming the show

Kevin Bridges is to host Have I Got News For You for the first time.

The stand-up has been a panellist on the programme seven times – although his last appearance was in 2016

He said it was ’an honour to be asked to host an iconic and long running show’ adding: ‘My Mum is especially excited to see me on her screen again as she can only work Freeview. The show should be a hoot. I’m off to buy a paper.’

He takes the host’s chair on October 4, the first episode of the 68th series of the BBC One show.

Also on the programme will be fellow comedian Chloe Petts who makes her second appearance on the programme, and  journalist Helen Lewis. 

Meanwhile ubiquitous BBC journalist Amol Rajan will be hosting the show for the first time the following week.

Joining team captains Paul Merton ad Ian Hislop on the panel of the October 11 episode will be comedian Miles Jupp, who makes his 17th appearance, as well as former Conservative MP Dame Andrea Jenkyns. 

Mastermind and Today programme host Rajan said: ‘Well I think it’s about time I put all the news in my head to work in the world of satire. I am honoured, obviously, to join the extended HIGNFY family, and will do my utmost to ensure Ian and Paul obey the rules. 

‘My main objective is to avoid saying "fingers on buzzers, here’s your Starter for Ten". If I can do that, it will be a triumph.’

Published: 25 Sep 2024