Jonathan Ross

The Masked Dancer heads to ITV this May

(credit: ITV)

A spin-off from the RTS-Award winning series The Masked Singer, the new series will see celebrities perform unique dances while dressed in extravagant costumes with gigantic, colourful face masks.

The show’s celebrity panel will then need to work out who is behind the mask, helped along by some cryptic clues.

Strictly star Oti Mabuse will be bringing her dance expertise to the panel, joining Jonathan Ross, Mo Gilligan and Davina McCall as they guess who is busting the moves beneath the giant suits.

ITV announces The Masked Dancer

Joel Dommett will present the seven part series, with dancer Oti Mabuse, Jonathan Ross, Mo Gilligan and Davina McCall sitting on the judging panel.

Ross said: “What people don’t know is that secretly I am an expert in dance and can spot a ball change from a box step no problem.

“The title of best detective on the panel is most certainly coming my way!”

Celebrity contestants will have to perform unique dance routines while covered head to toe in extravagant costumes and masks, leaving it up to the panel and viewers to guess their identities.

The Masked Singer UK adds Mo Gilligan to panel

Gilligan will be joining Davina McCall, Rita Ora and Jonathan Ross in using their power of deduction to guess the face behind the voice, while host Joel Dommett also returns to preside over the proceedings.

Gilligan commented: "It’s a real privilege to be joining The Masked Singer team.

“It’s one of the funniest shows out there and I’m really proud to play my small part to help bring a little bit of joy to the nation.”

ITV announces Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club

(credit: ITV)

In light of comedy venues shutting their doors during the pandemic, Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club will recreate the vibes of our beloved small comedy clubs while continuing to showcase the best up-and-coming talent.  

Four acts will perform each night under the watchful eye of comedy and broadcasting legend Jonathan Ross. While more familiar faces will have the opportunity to try out new material, the series will also offer a stage for new comedians on the cusp of their big break.

Jonathan Ross to host new documentary Morecambe & Wise in America

Eric Morcambe and Ernie Wise (Credit: UKTV)

Airing this Christmas on Gold, the three-part documentary will feature over an hour’s worth of footage never seen before in the UK. Ross explores the duo’s working relationship and a series of trips they made to appear on one of the USA’s largest variety shows, The Ed Sullivan Show.

The pair were watched by as many as “60 million people” on The Ed Sullivan Show which was also credited with helping The Beatles crack America.

Mr Entertainment shifts into top gear

Mark Linsey, BBC, BBC Television,

Mark Linsey’s career in television has progressed from producing An Audience with Freddie Starr to the heady heights of running BBC Television. As Acting Director of Television – following the abrupt departure of Danny Cohen – Linsey finds himself playing a critical part as Charter renewal gathers pace.

Ask how an executive with 30 years in entertainment shows might play such a crucial role, and this safe pair of hands reaches for the word “distinctive”.