Channel 4 orders more 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown
Channel 4 is once again to return to its hybrid panel game show format 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown.
8 Out Of 10 Cats regulars Jimmy Carr, Sean Lock and Jon Richardson, alongside comedian guests, are due to film another six episodes of the game this summer.
The regulars will be once again joined by Countdown resident lexicographer Susie Dent, sums expert Rachel Riley, and comedian Joe Wilkinson, who acts as Rachel's supposed assistant.
8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, which was first conceived as part of Channel 4's 'Mash Up' night in 2012, has now run for 16 episodes. The show has proved to be a ratings hit, with most episodes scoring over 2.5 million viewers.
The format has also proved to be a critical hit. It was the Countdown version, rather than the long-running original panel show format, which was nominated at last December's British Comedy Awards.
The new episodes will be recorded at MediaCity near Manchester on 19th May, 26th May and 2nd June 2014. There will be two hour-long episodes recorded each night. To apply to be in the audience, see our free tickets page
Guests for the new run include Jonathan Ross, Bill Bailey, Freddie Flintoff, Jo Brand, Jason Manford, Vic Reeves, Claudia Winkleman, Josh Widdicombe and Stephen Mangan.
Channel 4's Madeleine Knight says: "Every series of 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown is more ambitious with an amazing line up of star guests. Countdown is a compelling game but also a brilliant comedy vehicle which is always a treat to watch."
Ruth Phillips, from production company Zeppotron, adds: "We're delighted to be making more 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown and hope that viewers will continue to enjoy the mix of playing along with such a classic game show, while being bombarded with comedic tomfoolery."
The new series of 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown will be shown on Channel 4 in June.
In the below clip from a previous series, Sean Lock attempts to solve the Countdown Conundrum:
This story was edited on the 15th May to add quotes from the executives, and note the guest line-up.