Gogglebox Returns To Channel 4 For 27th Series

Friday nights just aren’t the same without a bit of laughter, a dash of surprise, and, of course, the comfort of watching others watch TV. That’s exactly what Channel 4 delivered as Gogglebox returned for its 27th series on February 6, 2026, reigniting the weekly ritual for millions of viewers across the UK and beyond. The much-loved armchair critics were back in action, ready to offer their hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes downright feisty takes on the latest television spectacles. For many, it felt like a reunion with old friends.

The format, which has become a staple of British television, remains as simple as ever: a collection of families and friends, perched on their sofas, reacting to the week’s biggest and best TV moments. This season’s opener didn’t disappoint, featuring familiar faces like Abbie and Georgia, Mary and Giles, and Jenny and Lee. As always, their living rooms became the nation’s unofficial TV review headquarters, their reactions a mirror to viewers’ own thoughts and feelings.

According to TV Zone, the episode captured the Gogglebox households as they tuned into a diverse lineup, including The Apprentice, The Floor, Secret Genius, Bridgerton, Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders, and Hollywood heavyweight Will Smith’s travel adventure, Pole to Pole. Each show brought out a different side of the Gogglebox cast—whether it was Abbie and Georgia’s infectious giggles or Mary and Giles’ dry wit, the commentary was as sharp and entertaining as ever.

For those who might not know, Gogglebox is filmed over the previous seven days, ensuring that the armchair critics’ reactions are timely, relevant, and often touch on breaking news or controversial events. As TV Zone notes, “Each episode is filmed over the previous seven days, covering that week’s TV and news highlights.” This immediacy is part of what makes the show so compelling. Viewers aren’t just watching TV; they’re engaging in a national conversation about what’s on TV, guided by the candid opinions of their favorite Gogglebox personalities.

Social media erupted with joy as the show made its return. Fans flocked to X (formerly known as Twitter) to share their delight. “Yes, Friday night belly laughs are back,” one viewer posted, echoing the sentiment of many. Another chimed in, “New series of Gogglebox yay,” while a third declared, “It’s good to have Gogglebox back.” The excitement was palpable, with viewers expressing how much they’d missed the weekly dose of humor and warmth that only Gogglebox seems to provide.

Some fans tried to put their finger on exactly why the show is so addictive. One commented, “It’s utterly fascinating how so many seasons in the delightful show about people just watching TV can be so ridiculously addictive and wonderfully comforting. Never fails to wildly entertain.” Another viewer described the program as “so funny,” while someone else mused, “How is it so darn therapeutic watching people just watch TV? Always the much needed light relief a s***** day requires. Bravo to all involved.” These sentiments were echoed by countless others, with posts full of laughter emojis and heartfelt thanks to the show’s creators and cast.

Of course, the return of Gogglebox wasn’t just celebrated in the UK. Fans from as far away as Australia voiced their longing for the show. One disappointed viewer wrote on Instagram, “We miss this show in Australia! You have many fans here and we’re bereft! (Used to be on @binge here but we haven’t had your last few seasons.” The international appeal of Gogglebox is undeniable—proof that the simple act of watching TV, and talking about it, resonates across borders and cultures.

Each week, Gogglebox offers more than just entertainment; it provides a snapshot of Britain’s living rooms, capturing the nation’s mood, humor, and even its disagreements. As TV Zone puts it, “Gogglebox households offer witty, insightful, feisty and sometimes emotional critiques of the week’s popular and topical TV shows.” Whether the topic is a high-stakes reality competition, a gripping drama, or a breaking news story, the cast doesn’t shy away from sharing their honest opinions. Their debates, laughter, and occasional tears make the show feel authentic and relatable—like sitting down with friends at the end of a long week.

The 27th series opener was no exception. As the Gogglebox families watched The Apprentice, there were the usual eye rolls and playful banter about the candidates’ business acumen (or lack thereof). The Floor and Secret Genius sparked debates about game show tactics and the quirks of British television. Bridgerton, with its lavish costumes and romantic intrigue, drew both admiration and gentle ribbing. Meanwhile, Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders had viewers on the edge of their seats, and Will Smith’s Pole to Pole adventure brought a touch of Hollywood glamour to the evening’s viewing.

It’s this variety that keeps Gogglebox fresh, even after so many seasons. The households’ reactions offer a cross-section of British society—different ages, backgrounds, and perspectives—all united by a love of television. The cast’s chemistry is a big part of the magic. Whether it’s Jenny and Lee’s infectious laughter, Mary and Giles’ deadpan commentary, or Abbie and Georgia’s youthful exuberance, every household brings something unique to the table.

Channel 4’s decision to air the show at 9pm on Fridays is no accident. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a busy week, a communal experience that draws families and friends together. As one fan put it, “Few more delightful ways to wind down after a long week than the terrific delight.” Another simply gushed, “Love love love Gogglebox.”

While the format hasn’t changed much over the years, that’s precisely what fans seem to love. In an age of rapidly shifting television trends, streaming wars, and ever-shorter attention spans, Gogglebox remains a constant—a reminder that sometimes, the best TV is the kind that brings people together, sparks conversation, and makes us laugh at ourselves.

With its 27th series now underway, Gogglebox continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers both at home and abroad. The nation’s favorite armchair critics are back, and if the first episode is any indication, they’re not slowing down any time soon. For fans old and new, Friday nights just got a whole lot brighter.