FRIENDS LIKE THESE: BBC SCRAP PLANS FOR GAMESHOW REBOOT

The popular noughties gameshow - originally hosted by Ant & Dec - will not be returning to screens after all. The BBC recorded a pilot last Spring with new hosts Vernon Kay and Alison Hammond.

This pilot of the classic gameshow Friends Like These saw see real life friends Alison Hammond and Vernon Kay keeping the peace as two teams of pals face-off in a series of head-to-head studio challenges.

The teams decided amongst themselves who will be best placed to take on each challenge, depending on their strengths – it’s all about the perfect pick! The team won the most challenges will get the chance to play for a cash prize. The format is the ultimate game to test friendship.

A source told The Sun: "Bringing back Friends Like These seemed a no-brainer but bosses felt it wasn’t the right time, as the light entertainment schedule is just so packed. It’s no reflection on either Alison or Vernon, who did a sterling job as hosts. There’s hope it could be reignited further down the line."

The pilot recorded on Thursday 3rd March 2022 at Dock10 Studios in Manchester.