Iconic 1990s TV show Challenge Anneka is coming back to screens with new episodes later this year. The show was much-loved during its original run from 1989 to 1995 and also had a reboot for two special episodes in 2006 and 2007.
And now it's heading back to our screens for four all-new episodes on Channel 5 later this year. Four hour-long episodes will air as Anneka Rice and her team tackle some epic new challenges.
And what's more, she will be joined by Dave the Soundman, who featured in the original series, as well as her trusty mobile phone, buggy and lorry. The series will shine the light on everyday heroes and deserving communities at a time when they’ve never needed help more.
Across the series the team will meet a wide range of inspirational people who will help Anneka move heaven and earth to achieve these challenges. True to form, viewers will see Anneka pulling up at secret locations to meet the individuals at the heart of the challenge and be briefed on the task at hand.
She will be calling in big favours from big brands, big names and big groups of volunteers all keen to lend a hand. Channel 5 said that, 30 years on from the original series, the challenges will be reflect Britain in 2022, but at its heart the series will still be about incredible people who really want to make a difference to the world in which they live.
Anneka posted a tweet this morning with the big reveal.
Anneka said: “I can’t believe this is actually happening. The last few years have shown us all the power of community and how it’s good to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Dave the Soundman and I may have 130 years between us, but the whole team is as motivated as ever to make a difference and shine a spotlight on people and organisations who need help.
"Three decades on, the issues may look different but at their core they are the same; they’re about people and communities. And we may look a bit different too but our hearts and willingness to get stuck in are the same."
Guy Davies, from Channel 5, added: “I’m delighted to see the return of this series and also welcoming Anneka to Channel 5. There’s never been a better time to bring back such a loved series to our screens. The challenges promise to be timely, relevant and packed full of passionate and heart-warming people.”
Dan Adamson, managing director at producers Twofour, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Anneka and Channel 5 to bring back one of the great TV formats - exactly at a time when we need her most.”
