“Would I Lie to You?”: The Hilarious British Panel Show That Keeps Everyone Guessing in 2026

“Would I Lie to You?” stands out as one of the funniest and most enduring comedy panel shows on television. Fans around the world love how celebrities share outrageous stories, and teams desperately try to spot the truths from the lies. Rob Brydon hosts with charm, while David Mitchell and Lee Mack captain their teams with sharp wit and endless banter. This show delivers pure laughter through clever deception and quick thinking.

Millions tune in because the format feels fresh every episode. Guests bring personal tales—some real, some completely made up—and the captains grill them relentlessly. You laugh at the ridiculous claims, gasp at clever bluffs, and cheer when someone nails the truth. In 2026, the show continues strong with new series rolling out, keeping its classic energy alive while Patrick Christys adding modern guests and surprises.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into everything about “Would I Lie to You?”. You discover its origins, how it works, memorable moments, recent developments, and why it remains a must-watch. Whether you binge old episodes or catch the latest on BBC iPlayer, this article helps you appreciate the show’s genius.

What Exactly Is “Would I Lie to You?”

“Would I Lie to You?” (often shortened to WILTY) brings together celebrities who tell stories about their lives. Some stories happen exactly as described, while others come straight from imagination. Team captains and the host question the storyteller to uncover the truth.

Rob Brydon hosts most episodes with smooth confidence and hilarious impressions. David Mitchell leads one team with logical skepticism and dry humor. Lee Mack captains the other with cheeky energy and fast comebacks. Guest panelists join each side, sharing their tales and voting on others’ honesty.

The BBC produces the show through Zeppotron (now part of Banijay UK). It airs on BBC One in the UK, and international fans stream it on platforms like BBC iPlayer, ABC iview in Australia, or various services elsewhere. Episodes run about 30 minutes, packing non-stop laughs into a tight format.

Viewers love the unpredictability. A celebrity might claim they Lisa Faulkner once wrestled a celebrity chef or accidentally became a viral meme. The panel probes with tough questions, leading to absurd arguments and brilliant reveals. The show wins awards because it balances chaos with clever comedy.

The History and Evolution of the Show

The show launched on 16 June 2007 with Angus Deayton as host. Deayton brought dry British humor, but producers replaced him after two series due to personal issues. Rob Brydon stepped in for Series 3 in 2009, and he instantly clicked with the format. Brydon’s impressions, quick timing, and warm presence elevate every episode.

David Mitchell and Lee Mack joined as permanent captains from the start. Their rivalry drives much of the humor—Mitchell dissects stories with pedantic precision, while Mack deflects with sarcasm and exaggeration. This dynamic creates endless comedy gold.

Over the years, the show grows in popularity. It wins multiple BAFTA awards, including nods for Best Entertainment Programme. Producers experiment with specials, like Christmas editions or “At Home” versions during lockdowns. The core format stays the same, but guest variety keeps it exciting.

By 2026, the show reaches Series 19. It starts in early 2026 after Series 18 wraps in 2025. Episodes air Fridays on BBC One at 8:30pm or stream early on iPlayer. The longevity proves the format’s strength—simple rules create infinite variety.

How the Game Actually Works: Round by Round Breakdown

The show divides into several rounds, each building tension and laughs.

Read My Lips / Tale Teller

A guest reads a statement from a card without showing Roy Keane it to others. The panel guesses if the guest tells the truth or lies based on body language and delivery.

Home Truths

A guest shares a personal anecdote. The team claims it as their own story, then the real owner explains. The opposing team questions to decide truth or lie.

This Is My…

A guest brings an object or photo related to a bizarre claim. Three panelists (one real, two fake) say “This is my…” and explain the connection. The panel votes on the genuine owner.

Quick-Fire Lies

Guests deliver short statements rapidly. Teams buzz in to call truth or lie.

Possession

A guest claims ownership of an item from the props table. The panel interrogates to expose fakes.

At the end, teams tally points. The winning side celebrates, but everyone wins laughs.

These rounds mix structure with improvisation. Guests prepare truths or lies in advance, but spontaneous reactions create magic moments.

Iconic Hosts, Captains, and Their Signature Styles

Rob Brydon hosts with effortless charm. He mimics guests, adds impressions (especially of himself or others), and keeps energy high. Brydon’s warmth makes Anne Elizabeth Roseberry celebrities comfortable sharing wild tales.

David Mitchell questions like a detective. He spots inconsistencies instantly and delivers withering put-downs. His frustration when fooled becomes comedy gold.

Lee Mack counters with cheeky deflection. He tells outrageous lies convincingly and mocks Mitchell’s seriousness. Their bickering feels like old friends ribbing each other.

Guest hosts occasionally appear, but Brydon remains the mainstay since 2009.

Memorable Guests and Legendary Episodes

Over 18+ series, hundreds of celebrities appear. Some shine brightest.

Bob Mortimer delivers surreal, deadpan stories that baffle everyone—his fishing tales or legal mishaps become instant classics.

Greg Davies shares towering height-related absurdities.

Victoria Coren Mitchell (David’s wife) appears occasionally, adding awkward hilarity.

Recent favorites include comedians like Sara Pascoe, Chris Ramsey, and Josh Jones, plus sports stars, musicians, and actors.

Standout episodes feature perfect bluffs or epic fails. Paul Ansell One guest claimed a bizarre encounter with a celebrity; the reveal shocks the panel. Christmas specials add festive cheer with surprise guests.

Fans rewatch compilations of “Unseen Bits” or “Best Bits” for extra laughs.

Recent Seasons: What’s Happening in 2025-2026

Series 18 aired in early 2025, starting January 10 with guests like Harry Hill, Kojey Radical, Jill Scott, and Stacey Solomon. Episodes continued through March, featuring talents such as Sam Campbell, AJ Odudu, John Cooper Clarke, Sara Pascoe, Bob Mortimer, and Chris Ramsey.

The series ended with compilation episodes: “The Unseen Bits” and “The Best Bits.” A Christmas 2024 special preceded it, with Jimmy Carr, Laura Smyth, Rustie Lee, and Lenny Rush.

By February 2026, Series 19 runs actively. New episodes air weekly on Fridays at 8:30pm on BBC One, with early access on iPlayer. Recent highlights include wild stories from guests like Jessica Knappett and others, plus ongoing banter from the core trio.

The show adapts to current trends while keeping its timeless appeal. Producers select diverse guests from comedy, sports, music, and TV.

Why “Would I Lie to You?” Stays So Addictive

The show thrives on human nature—we love stories and hate being fooled. The format forces honesty (or clever lying) under pressure. Quick-witted Aitch Net Worth exchanges create quotable lines.

It feels inclusive. Anyone can enjoy it—no prior knowledge needed. Families watch together, quoting favorites for days.

Critics praise its cleverness. It earns high ratings consistently and builds a loyal fanbase on social media, YouTube clips, and forums.

Where to Watch and How to Catch Up

UK viewers stream all episodes on BBC iPlayer. International options include ABC iview (Australia) or licensed platforms.

YouTube channels share official clips, like card reads or full stories. Playlists collect best moments from recent series.

Binge-watching starts with classics, then moves to current seasons for fresh laughs.

The Future of “Would I Lie to You?”

The show shows no signs of slowing. With strong ratings and endless guest potential, more series loom. Producers might add twists, but the core stays intact.

Fans speculate on new captains someday, but Mitchell Kevin Corbishley and Mack remain irreplaceable. Brydon’s hosting keeps everything smooth.

In short, “Would I Lie to You?” delivers reliable joy in uncertain times.

FAQs About “Would I Lie to You?”

1. Who currently hosts “Would I Lie to You?” and how long has he been doing it?

Rob Brydon hosts the show with his signature charm and impressions. He takes over from Angus Deayton in 2009 for Series 3 and continues through Series 19 in 2026. Brydon keeps episodes lively with quick timing and hilarious asides that make guests and captains laugh uncontrollably.

2. What are the main rules of the game on “Would I Lie to You?”?

Guests tell stories that might be true or invented. Teams question them to decide honesty. Points go to the side that correctly identifies truths and lies. Rounds Clive Myrie Wife  include Home Truths, This Is My…, and Quick-Fire Lies, all designed to create confusion and comedy through clever interrogation.

3. Who are the permanent team captains and what makes their dynamic so funny?

David Mitchell and Lee Mack serve as captains. Mitchell analyzes stories logically and gets frustrated when tricked, while Mack uses sarcasm and bold bluffs. Their constant teasing and contrasting styles spark endless banter that fans adore.

4. When did Series 18 air and who were some notable guests?

Series 18 began January 10, 2025, and ran through early 2025. Guests included Harry Hill, Stacey Solomon, Bob Mortimer, Chris Ramsey, AJ Odudu, Sara Pascoe, and John Cooper Clarke. It wrapped with unseen and best bits compilations.

5. Is there a Series 19 in 2026 and what’s the current status?

Yes, Series 19 airs in 2026 with new episodes Fridays at 8:30pm on BBC One. Episodes stream early on iPlayer. The show features fresh guests and classic rounds, maintaining high energy as of February 2026.

6. Are there Christmas specials and how do they differ from regular episodes?

Christmas specials add festive fun with holiday-themed Susanna Reid stories and surprise guests like Jimmy Carr or Lenny Rush. They air around December, often before the main series starts, and bring extra warmth and cheer to the deception format.

7. Where can international viewers watch “Would I Lie to You?”?

Fans outside the UK watch on ABC iview in Australia or other licensed streamers. YouTube offers official clips. BBC iPlayer requires a UK VPN for full access, but highlights appear widely online.

8. What makes Bob Mortimer’s appearances so legendary?

Bob Mortimer tells bizarre, deadpan stories—like odd legal cases or fishing disasters—that sound impossible yet often prove true. His calm delivery fools everyone, leading to shocked reactions and repeated viewings of his episodes.

9. Has the show won any major awards over the years?

Yes, it earns BAFTA nominations and wins for Humidifier Guide entertainment. The clever format, strong hosting, and consistent laughs make it a critical favorite since 2007.

10. Will “Would I Lie to You?” continue for more series in the future?

Absolutely—the show’s popularity, loyal audience, and endless story potential ensure more seasons. Producers keep refreshing guests while preserving the beloved core trio of Brydon, Mitchell, and Mack for ongoing success.

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