ITV has unveiled a highly anticipated trailer for its upcoming series, The Assembly, which promises to challenge the norms of celebrity interviews. The show features a unique format where celebrities are questioned by a group of inquisitive interviewers who are autistic, neurodivergent, and/or learning disabled. This innovative approach is set to bring a fresh perspective to the traditional interview format, encouraging honesty and spontaneity from its high-profile guests.
The celebrity lineup includes renowned figures from various fields: former professional footballer and sports broadcaster Gary Lineker, acclaimed actor David Tennant, pop star Jade Thirlwall, and actor Danny Dyer. Each episode will see these celebrities face questions that are anything but scripted, as they cast aside their media training to engage in what is described as their most honest, funny, chaotic, and heartwarming interviews yet.
In a striking moment from the trailer, Danny Dyer is questioned about his decision to send his son to a private school, with the interviewer asking, “How working class was it to send your son to a private school?” This question highlights the show’s aim to tackle topics that are often deemed too sensitive or controversial for mainstream media. Dyer, who has openly discussed his working-class roots, recently shared with The Times that he and his wife, Joanne Mas, were considering whether to enroll their son Arty in Chigwell, a prestigious private school, or Roding Valley, a state school where his daughters were educated.
Gary Lineker, the first star confirmed for the series, is preparing to share stories from his illustrious career as a Golden Boot-winning footballer and a beloved television presenter. As he draws closer to the end of his tenure as the longest-serving presenter of Match of the Day, viewers can expect a candid look at his experiences both on and off the pitch.
Joining him is David Tennant, best known for his role as the Tenth Doctor in Doctor Who. Tennant has faced formidable foes on-screen, but the grilling he will receive on The Assembly could prove to be his most challenging encounter yet. With a reputation for his engaging performances, audiences are eager to see how he navigates the unconventional questioning style.
Jade Thirlwall, who recently transitioned from a successful career with the chart-topping girl group Little Mix to a solo artist, is also part of the lineup. Her lyrics often reflect her personal challenges in the music industry, suggesting that her interview will delve into deeper, more meaningful territory.
Each episode of The Assembly will not only entertain but also foster understanding and inclusion, as the interviewers bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. The show is inspired by the French series Les Rencontres du Papotin, which debuted in 2022 on France 2 and has been well-received for its innovative approach to interviewing.
The pilot episode of The Assembly first aired in the UK in 2024 on the BBC, featuring actor and director Michael Sheen. Sheen remarked in an interview with The Guardian that the pilot received more response than anything else he had ever done, indicating a strong public interest in this format. The positive reception of the pilot has paved the way for the full series, which has been commissioned as part of ITV’s Diversity Commissioning Fund.
This fund, launched in 2022, has allocated £80 million to promote diversity in television production, focusing on racial and disability equity. By supporting projects like The Assembly, ITV aims to ensure that a broader range of stories are told and that diverse voices are given opportunities in the industry.
The four-part series is set to premiere on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10 PM on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player. With its groundbreaking approach and star-studded lineup, The Assembly is anticipated to be a captivating addition to ITV’s programming, promising viewers a blend of entertainment and genuine dialogue.
As audiences await the series launch, the excitement is palpable. The combination of celebrity allure and the unique interviewing style is bound to create memorable television moments that challenge conventional norms and encourage viewers to reflect on the subjects discussed. In a media landscape often criticized for superficiality, The Assembly is poised to offer something refreshingly different.
With no question off-limits and an atmosphere of authenticity, The Assembly invites viewers to engage with their favorite celebrities in a way that has never been done before. As ITV prepares to roll out this innovative show, the anticipation surrounding its debut continues to grow, making it one of the most talked-about programs of the year.
