Mock the Week

The topical comedy quiz Mock the Week made its debut on 5 June 2005. It followed the familiar format of such shows, with two teams of three - each with a regular captain - and a question master. But Mock the Week set out to be more edgy than existing programmes, casting rising star Frankie Boyle as one of the team captains alongside the more seasoned Rory Bremner. The show put a strong emphasis on the stand-up element, getting the comedians out from behind their desks into the “performance area”. Some of the biggest names in comedy got their first break on Mock the Week.

The guests on the first episode were Linda Smith, John Oliver, Jeremy Hardy and Hugh Dennis. The chairman was - as he remains to this day - Dara O’Briain. Boyle’s humour often sailed close to the wind and he left after seven series. The many and varied styles of the panelists – from Milton Jones to Russell Howard, Ed Byrne and Tom Allen – ensure Mock the Week remains entertaining.

Mock the Week still has its original theme tune – News of the World by The Jam. In recent years efforts have been made to include a more representative selection of comedians in the line-up and the show continues to showcase the best up and coming comedy talent alongside established stars.