BBC Daytime has today announced the return of Big Break, the popular snooker-themed game show for BBC Two and iPlayer. The series will be reimagined for audiences and play alongside BBC Sport’s popular snooker coverage. Paddy McGuinness and Stephen Hendry will be joined in the studio by professional snooker players from across the globe, straight off the competition circuit, in a bid to win their contestants the cash prize.
Audiences will experience the brand-new look and feel to Big Break, as Stephen shows off new trick shots, the show will have an addictive mix of fast-paced snooker frames with a relaxed, comedic atmosphere. Seeing the show from every angle, home audiences will now be put on the table, behind the ball and into frame, getting up close and personal with the professionals, tapping into the deep well of snooker fandom which already exists online and on the BBC.
While staying true to the spirit of the original show, audiences will see three contestants and their pros battle it out in three rounds of trick shots to reach the dramatic finale. The 20 x 30’ series will start production shortly.
Paddy McGuinness, Big Break co-host, says: “I am absolutely delighted to be a part of Big Break. It is one of those shows everyone knows and loves so to be hosting it alongside legend Stephen Hendry will be something special. Bring it on!”
Stephen Hendry, Big Break co-host, adds: “Big Break was a unique mix of trick shots and great entertainment and I can't wait to be back at the table and bringing this incredible show to a whole new audience and who knows, we might inspire the next generation of snooker players to get into the sport.”
Rob Unsworth, Head of BBC Daytime and Early Peak Commissioning comments; “Snooker fans and pros alike have been calling for Big Break’s return, so we're excited to confirm they'll get their wish - and can even apply to take part. This revamp will showcase some of the game’s best known and up-and-coming faces, as well as tapping into the deep well of snooker fandom online and already on the BBC. The recent World Championships pulled in 120million viewing hours, so pairing upcoming live coverage with the new Big Break will mean audiences can come together with the whole family to enjoy more of what they want.”
Alex McLeod, Commissioning Editor for BBC Daytime comments, “It felt like the perfect time to bring back such a brilliant show, and with Paddy and Stephen at the helm, we can promise fun and trick shots in equal measure especially off the back of another successful Snooker World Championship on the BBC. It’s the perfect watch for all the family whether in real time or on iPlayer. I can see the massive ‘cues’ for the next championships now!”
Tom O’Brien, Managing Director, Naked, says: “Big Break is a format that has been off air for much too long a time – we’ve worked extremely hard to get this back onto our screens again, and I really hope everyone will love the magic of the new show and will once again be singing along with TV’s most iconic theme tune."
Mobashir Dar, CEO Vibrant Television said: "Big Break is such an iconic show from our childhood, and we couldn’t be happier to be working alongside Naked and Fremantle to bring it back to our screens.”
Further details on how and when to watch Big Break will be announced soon.
