Channel 4 commissions Zeppotron for more Cats

17 December 2013

• 8 Out of 10 Cats has been commissioned for a 17th series with 9 new shows and 2 compilation episodes
• 6 new episodes of the popular 8 Out of 10 Cats does Countdown have also been commissioned

Channel 4 has commissioned Zeppotron, an Endemol company, to produce further series of the popular panel shows 8 Out of 10 Cats and 8 Out of 10 Cats does Countdown for 2014.

Host Jimmy Carr and team captains Jon Richardson and Sean Lock will return for a 17th series of Zeppotron produced topical comedy panel show 8 Out of 10 Cats. In addition the Cats team will once again take on the famous words and numbers quiz in 8 Out of 10 Cats does Countdown which will be co-produced by Zeppotron and ITV Studios for a further 6 episodes.

As ever on 8 Out of 10 Cats the teams will discuss and dissect the topical events that set the great British public’s chins wagging. In their quest to uncover the public’s most popular talking points, Jon and Sean will be joined by famous faces from the world of comedy and showbiz, and by plenty of exciting new talent from the world of comedy too.

On 8 Out of 10 Cats does Countdown, team captains Sean Lock and Jon Richardson will once again be pitted against each other.  In each show they will be joined by a guest from the world of comedy and entertainment. Countdown’s resident lexicographer Susie Dent will be joined by a different comedic guest in Dictionary Corner on each show, the country's favourite boffin Rachel Riley will be providing the letters and numbers, and Joe Wilkinson will bring his own inimitable comic take to proceedings.  

Zeppotron Managing Director Ruth Phillips says: ‘It’s great that 8 Out of 10 Cats is returning for a 17th series.  Not only are our show regulars on sparkling form, but we’ll also, as ever, have the opportunity to feature some of the new rising stars of the comedy world on the show.  We’re also delighted that 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown is back for another series, hopefully cementing its place as a firm favourite with viewers.”

Channel 4 Commissioning Editor, Entertainment Syeda Irtizaali said: “Series 17 really is testament to the talent, on screen and off, of the Cats team. And like all teenagers am sure this series will be as cheeky, fresh and irreverent as always.”

Channel 4 Commissioning Editor, Entertainment Madeleine Knight added: “8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown has grown into a very funny format in its own right and a brilliant comedy vehicle for Sean, Jon, Jimmy and Joe Wilkinson. “

8 Out of 10 Cats is a Zeppotron production for Channel 4. The Executive Producers are Ruth Phillips, Richard Osman and Andrew Westwell. Series Producer is Richard Cohen.

8 Out of Cats Does Countdown is co-production by Zeppotron and Countdown producers ITV Studios.  The Executive Producers at Zeppotron are Ruth Phillips, Andrew Westwell and Richard Osman. The Series Producers will be Richard Cohen and Karen Murdoch.