Who’s Taking on the New Series of Taskmaster?
The wait is over—Taskmaster is back. Series 17 launches tonight at 9pm on Channel 4, with Greg Davies once again presiding as the all-powerful ruler of the absurd. His loyal right-hand man, Alex Horne, remains at his side to set the challenges and keep the chaos vaguely under control.
This time, five fresh contestants are stepping up to face the ridiculous, the surreal, and the occasionally humiliating tasks in pursuit of the ultimate prize: Greg’s golden head. Here’s who’s entering the Taskmaster arena.
✨ Ania Magliano
One of the rising stars of the UK comedy circuit, Ania Magliano has quickly built a reputation for razor-sharp stand-up and brilliantly offbeat observations. With her first solo show selling out at the Edinburgh Fringe, she’s a comic on the ascent—and now faces the test of whether her wit and charm can survive under Greg’s scrutiny.
✨ Maisie Adam
Known for her bold energy and witty takes on everyday life, Maisie Adam has become a familiar face on comedy panel shows and podcasts alike. Her distinctive Yorkshire delivery and fearless attitude could give her an edge in the Taskmaster house. The question is—will confidence carry her through the madness of codes, gym balls, and gross sound effects?
✨ Phil Ellis
Phil Ellis brings a chaotic, anything-goes comedy style that seems tailor-made for Taskmaster. A Fringe favourite with a cult following, Ellis thrives on unpredictable humour. Expect him to lean into the sillier side of the show’s challenges—possibly with genius results, possibly with total disaster (which is half the fun).
✨ Reece Shearsmith
Best known as part of the darkly brilliant League of Gentlemen and co-creator of Inside No. 9, Reece Shearsmith is a master of twisted storytelling and sharp character work. While he’s more associated with dark humour than slapstick, watching him adapt to the bizarre rules of Taskmaster promises to be fascinating. Will his meticulous mind help him—or will Greg break him?
✨ Sanjeev Bhaskar
A national treasure of British comedy, Sanjeev Bhaskar has been delighting audiences since Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No. 42. Known for his warmth and timing, Bhaskar brings seasoned experience to the lineup. But will years of comic wisdom prepare him for the unpredictable nonsense of Greg and Alex’s games?
With tasks ranging from the weirdly intricate to the gleefully disgusting, this new batch of contestants are in for a wild ride. Only one will emerge triumphant with the golden trophy—but the real joy lies in watching them try.
Taskmaster Series 17 kicks off tonight at 9pm on Channel 4.