Big Break Returns After 24-Year Hiatus!

Iconic snooker game show Big Break is returning to screens after 24 years, with and seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry set to present. 

Originally airing on the from 1991 to 2002, each episode features three teams of a contestant and a professional snooker player.

Various rounds see contestants handle questions from the host, while the professional players take on snooker-based elements.

The new, 're-imagined' BBC Two iteration of the popular show will play alongside BBC Sport's popular snooker coverage.

Paddy, 52, and Stephen, 57, will be joined by pro snooker players from across the globe, hoping to help contestants bag the cash prize.

Paddy said: '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!'

Seven-time world snooker champion Stephen added: '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, said: '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 commented: '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, said: '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 will be announced in due course.