8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown Christmas Special | Preview (Channel 4)

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown has gone into production with a refreshed line-up as Rob Beckett takes up the permanent role of team captain and Judi Love joins the show as a regular returning guest in the show’s 29^th series. Fellow fan favourites Jon Richardson and Joe Wilkinson will also continue appearing as regulars in the new series.

Jimmy Carr will return to host the chaotic comedy twist on Channel 4’s classic brainteaser quiz alongside Rachel Riley overseeing the numbers and Susie Dent in Dictionary Corner.

Jimmy Carr hosts a festive edition of the comedy words-and-numbers quiz, with Jon Richardson and Daisy May Cooper taking on Rob Beckett and Judi Love. Katie Norris is in Dictionary Corner, while Countdown regulars Rachel Riley and Susie Dent are on hand to adjudicate.

Rob Beckett comments: “I'm buzzing to be a new team captain on 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. To follow the legend that is Sean Lock is a huge honour and privilege. I promise to do my very best to give Jimmy Carr as many digs as possible whilst annihilating Jon Richardson at maths and spelling. I also think it's a great day for people that can't count or spell. To go from the worst Countdown player of all time to team captain is great advert to just keep being shit at your job and hope for the best.”

Judi Love adds: “To be asked to be a new regular on 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown is a huge honour, but have they seen my maths!? I know this is going to be full of love, spelling mistakes and a whole lotta laughs. I can't wait to get started!”

Guests in the upcoming series include Katherine Ryan, Harriet Kemsley, Richard Ayoade, Morgana Robinson, Nick Mohammed and Roisin Conaty. 

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown returns Christmas Eve on Channel 4.