Fans have been treated to a first glimpse of Anneka Rice’s return to Channel 5 for Challenge Anneka.
The show, which initially aired between 1989 and 1995, followed host Anneka, 63, as she attempted to complete set tasks before a deadline.
There were two specials aired in 2006 and 2007, and that appeared to be it – 15 years have passed since the last special was broadcast.
But in a sensational comeback to Channel 5, Challenge Anneka fans have been treated to their first looks at the revived show.
The reboot will feature four episodes – although the date for the big series premiere has yet to be announced, with Channel 5 officials staying tight-lipped.
Anneka has been described as ‘raring to go’ for the new series – the location for which is also being kept under wraps by the show’s bosses.
A statement said: ‘This first shoot provides enticing glimpses of everything we all loved about the original series; from a rebooted truck and shiny new buggy to the return of Dave the Soundman.’
It continued: ‘At the heart will of course be Anneka and a whole new generation of volunteers on hand to tackle some epic new challenges, responding to modern problems we are all facing.’
Anneka said of the new series: ‘There will always be a room for challenge on television, because it’s about kindness, it’s about community, it’s about the power of the collective. As humans we are totally hardwired to be altruistic.’
She continued: ‘It might not be on the screen, but it’s been in my heart for the last 30 years because I’m still so involved with all those projects.’
This time around, the show is keen to continue ‘shining a light’ on those who help their communities every single day.
‘The series will shine the light on everyday heroes and deserving communities at a time when they’ve never needed help more. The heart and ambition is the same.’
Anneka had been in talks with both ITV and the BBC about reviving the show towards the end of the 2000s, but was told that the show was ‘no longer in the public consciousness’.
Channel 5 will be aiming to prove them wrong next year.
Watch Challenge Anneka on Channel 5 in 2023.
