Two special episodes instead of one

Taskmaster’s New Year Treat is to run over two episodes for the first time ever.

The seasonal show – which traditionally features non-comedian celebrities – has run as a one-off special since 2021, when it was won by Strictly Come Dancing’s Shirley Ballas.

Contestants to be put through their paces by Alex Horne and Greg Davies in this year’s specials have not yet been announced.

It has also been confirmed that next Champion of Champions is to return to Channel 4over the Christmas period.

That will see a showdown between Sam Campbell, John Robins, Andy Zaltzman, Mathew Baynton and the winner of the current 20th series.

Ania Magliano is currently in poll position with 111 points, but the grouping is tight with Phil Ellis on 106, Maisie Adam on 102, Sanjeev Bhaskar on 99 and Reece Shearsmith on 98.

The winner will be revealed in the final episode of the series, which is due to air on November 13.

Audience tickets for the recordings of the New Year Treat and the Champion of Champions will be available to fans on the show's  mailing list. Unusually for a TV recording, there will be a charge but producers Avalon say all proceeds will go to charity. 

The show also has its own range of Christmas crackers, put on sale after an advent calendar sold out almost instantly.

Adrian Chiles and Lenny Rush have also won previous edition of the New Year Treat.

Published: 30 Oct 2025