Revamped BBC show Record Breakers to make a comeback after 20 years off air with new name
Record Breakers is set to make a return to screens more than two decades after it was last on air - and it's undergoing a revamp
The iconic children's TV show Record Breakers is slated for a grand return after over 20 years absent from our screens, complete with a modernised title and fresh concept. Originally broadcasted by the BBC from December 1972 up until December 2001, the series became a staple of family entertainment.
Throughout its lengthy history, a number of television personalities have taken the reins, among them Olympic star Linford Christie, who presented the programme between 1998 and 2000. Eager youngsters will soon be vying for a spot in the annals of record-breaking history as the show gears up for a comeback.
With plans underway to reintroduce the series under the provisional name World Record Breakers: The Rivals, it seems we can anticipate a twist on the old format, presumably infusing the show with a new competitive edge. At the forefront of this revival is none other than Hungry Bear Media's Dan Baldwin, known not just for being Holly Willoughby's husband but also for his role in reviving the popular Gladiators series on the BBC.
An insider has divulged to The Sun: "Record Breakers was an incredibly successful format, running for three decades and garnering millions of fans of different generations. It worked so well because it could feature record attempts ranging from feats of bravery and impressive sportsmanship through to the downright mindboggling.
"And the spirit of the show remains strong. Every day the TikTok generation are doing pranks and stunts online so it feels like a no-brainer," reports the Mirror.
The source added that the plan is for the revived show to take up a Saturday night prime slot, though which channel will air it and who will present it remains to be confirmed. The Mirror has reached out to Hungry Bear Media for a statement.
Record Breakers is a spin-off from the iconic children's programme Blue Peter, which it has been revealed will no longer be broadcast live. It was initially fronted by the acclaimed actor and presenter Roy Castle alongside Norris and Ross McWhirter, founders of Guinness World Records. Audiences would tune in to be inspired by individual quests to set new world records, along with catching glimpses into the lives of record-holding Brits and international achievers.
Roy himself impressively nabbed nine world records during his tenure as a host, which spanned from 1972 up until 1993. Moreover, each episode concluded with an electrifying segment where live studio audiences had the opportunity to observe a world record attempt unfolding before them.
The presenting baton was passed through several notable names over time, including Cheryl Baker who took the helm from 1987 to 1997, Kriss Akabusi from 1993 to 1997, alongside Kate Gerbeau in 1998, Linford Christie guiding the slot from 1998 to 2000, and Sally Gray rounding off the millennium run between 1999 and 2000.
The turn of the millennium saw Fearne Cotton step into the presenting role in 2001, however, her spell coincided with the BBC's decision to cancel the much-loved series.
Norris and Ross McWhirter, the founders of Guinness World Records, were a significant part of the show's early seasons. They would answer questions about records from the live audience, demonstrating their extensive knowledge.
In a shocking turn of events, Ross McWhirter was assassinated in 1975 at the age of 50 by IRA militants who shot him at point-blank range.
The murderers, Harry Duggan and Hugh Doherty, were members of the Active Service Unit, which Ross had offered a reward for capturing its members. Ross was shot in the head and chest at close range and died shortly after in hospital.
His brother, Norris, continued to appear on Record Breakers until 1985, featuring in the Norris on the Spot segment of the show.