Taskmaster season 21 confirms 9 April return date and same-night global YouTube release
Taskmaster season 21 returns (Image: Channel 4)
Taskmaster season 21 will premiere on Channel 4 on Thursday 9 April at 9pm, with the episode landing worldwide on the Taskmaster YouTube channel at 10pm BST (5pm EST/2pm PST).
The same-night YouTube drop follows last season’s release change, which made it easier for viewers outside the UK to watch soon after the broadcast.
The new contestant line-up includes Kumail Nanjiani, Armando Iannucci, Joanna Page, Amy Gledhill and Joel Dommett.
Alex Horne has also teased what he called a “never-before-seen” moment involving Nanjiani. In a RadioTimes.com interview, Horne said: “There is a moment involving Kumail Nanjiani,” before adding: “I don’t want to give much away, but he gives a lot away about what he does by himself in his hotel room. So that’s what you’ve got to tune in for.”
“He surprised himself by what he revealed, and I was sat next to him, and it’s a big moment. It’s a never-before-seen Taskmaster moment,” Horne continued.
Release time and what to expect
The confirmed schedule means UK viewers can watch live at 9pm on Channel 4, with international fans able to press play an hour later at a fixed time. The last main season was won by Maisie Adam.
Horne also shared his verdict on Iannucci’s performance on the show, saying: “He’s a comedy legend and a very clever man, you’d think.” He added: “Not on Taskmaster! It turns out Armando is an idiot, which is so nice to [know].”
“I found him quite daunting to meet and work with, but within five minutes, you realise he’s the same as everyone else. He crumbles under pressure,” Horne said.
About Taskmaster
Created by Horne, Taskmaster sees comedians take on absurd challenges judged by the ‘Taskmaster’, Greg Davies, mixing studio banter with pre-recorded task films. After starting on Dave and moving to Channel 4, it has grown into an international franchise, with online clips helping it reach audiences well beyond UK broadcast. Recent line-ups have included fan favourites such as Rosie Jones in season 18, and the show’s specials continue to pull in big names, including the New Year Treat 2026 line-up.
