Gary Lineker, the celebrated former footballer and veteran broadcaster, is stepping into a new chapter of his career after his well-publicized departure from the BBC. On August 8, 2025, ITV confirmed that Lineker will host The Box, a highly anticipated UK adaptation of the fast-selling Norwegian reality format produced by Twofour. The show, set to air in 2026, marks Lineker’s first major presenting role since leaving his long-standing post at Match of the Day.
Lineker, 64, is no stranger to high-pressure environments or the glare of the spotlight. For more than two decades, he helmed Match of the Day, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in British sports broadcasting. But his tenure came to an abrupt end on May 2, 2025, following a social media controversy that ignited widespread debate and ultimately led to his resignation from the BBC. The incident centered on a post Lineker reshared about Zionism that featured a rat—a symbol with deep-rooted antisemitic connotations. In the aftermath, Lineker issued an unreserved apology via a video on social media, stating his regret and announcing his exit from the BBC, where he had been the highest-paid presenter.
Now, just a few months later, Lineker is turning the page with ITV’s The Box, a game show that promises unpredictability, excitement, and a fresh twist on the celebrity competition format. The show’s premise is as intriguing as its host: ten yellow boxes, each containing a celebrity contestant, are transported to unknown locations. Once released, the contestants face a variety of games—each designed to test their wits, adaptability, and competitive spirit. Every week, two players face off in a finale called "The Duel," where the loser is eliminated from the competition for good.
Lineker himself has spoken with characteristic enthusiasm about his new role. In a statement shared by ITV and reported by Deadline, Lineker said, “I’ve always felt right at home in the box on a football pitch and whilst this is a different proposition, the fundamentals are similar. The contestants will have to quickly and masterfully work out how each game works, whilst also trying to get ahead of the competition to take control. It’s going to be unpredictable and thrilling to watch, and I’m excited that I get to have a front row seat to all the action.”
The parallels between Lineker’s football career and his new television venture are hard to miss. As a striker, he thrived under pressure, often making split-second decisions in the penalty box. Now, he’ll use that same poise and energy to guide contestants (and viewers) through the twists and turns of The Box. For Lineker, the move is both a professional reinvention and a natural extension of his on-screen persona.
Katie Rawcliffe, ITV’s Director of Entertainment, Reality & Daytime Commissioning, was quick to praise the appointment. “Gary is the perfect fit for The Box, an entertaining, exhilarating and immersive new format,” she said in a statement. Her words echo the sentiments of many in the industry who see Lineker’s affable, quick-witted style as an ideal match for the show’s dynamic format.
Dan Adamson, Chief Content Officer at Twofour, the production company behind the UK version, also expressed his excitement about Lineker’s involvement. “From the first time we saw those iconic yellow boxes open in an incredible location we were hooked. Now, with Gary on board, we have the ideal master of ceremonies to make this real event telly; he is after all a man who knows what it’s like under pressure in the box. He’s sure to raise the competitive spirit as our cast bursts out of those boxes, into unknown, ambitious and spectacular challenges.”
The Box is not just a new show for the UK—it’s a proven hit overseas. The original format launched on TV2 in Norway in January 2025, quickly capturing the imagination of viewers with its blend of suspense, strategy, and spectacle. The UK version is scheduled to film later this year, with a broadcast date set for 2026. ITV and Twofour are betting that British audiences will be just as captivated by the high-stakes drama and celebrity intrigue.
The show’s format is designed to keep both contestants and viewers on their toes. Each yellow box conceals not only a celebrity but also a sense of mystery about what challenge lies ahead. The unpredictability is a core part of the appeal. As Lineker put it, “The contestants will have to quickly and masterfully work out how each game works, whilst also trying to get ahead of the competition to take control.” The weekly Duel adds a layer of tension, ensuring that every episode builds toward a nail-biting conclusion.
For ITV, the launch of The Box is a strategic move in the ever-competitive world of reality television. With streaming platforms and rival networks constantly raising the bar, finding the right mix of format, star power, and spectacle is crucial. In Lineker, ITV has secured a household name whose credibility and charisma are likely to draw in viewers, both loyal fans and curious newcomers alike.
Of course, Lineker’s journey to this new role has not been without controversy. His departure from the BBC—after more than 25 years—was a headline-grabbing moment that sparked conversations about free speech, social media, and the responsibilities of public figures. While some criticized his actions, others defended his right to express personal opinions. In the end, Lineker’s apology and dignified exit paved the way for a fresh start, one that he now embraces with characteristic optimism.
As the UK version of The Box prepares to begin filming, anticipation is building—not just for the spectacle of the show itself, but for the next act in Gary Lineker’s storied career. ITV’s gamble on Lineker and Twofour’s proven format could well pay off, ushering in a new era of celebrity-driven, high-stakes reality TV. Only time will tell whether The Box becomes the breakout hit its creators hope for, but one thing is certain: with Lineker at the helm, all eyes will be on the action, both inside and outside the box.
With its unique format, star-studded cast, and a host who thrives under pressure, The Box is poised to become one of the most talked-about shows of 2026. For Gary Lineker, it’s a chance to turn the page and prove, once again, why he remains one of Britain’s most enduring television personalities.
