Vernon Kay and Ronan Keating Join Bbc Daytime’s Line-up for 2026

New Shows on the Horizon: BBC Daytime’s 2026 Line-Up

BBC Daytime has announced an exciting roster of new shows for 2026. At the Belfast Media Festival, Head of BBC Daytime and Early Peak Commissioning, Rob Unsworth, unveiled a series of fresh commissions designed to captivate audiences both in Northern Ireland and beyond.

New Travelogue Series with Ronan Keating

One standout announcement is the commission for an Irish travelogue, “Ronan Keating’s Wild Atlantic,” which will take viewers on a journey along the Wild Atlantic Coast of Ireland. Produced by Alleycats TV, this series promises to offer audiences insights into Ronan’s personal history and family life as he explores the picturesque landscapes and rich culture of the region.

Speaking about his involvement in the project, Ronan Keating expressed enthusiasm: “It’s felt really special making this series, rediscovering magical places that have meant so much to me and my family. I was 16 when I left Ireland, and there was so much of the west coast I hadn’t seen. Now, I’m coming home, and I can’t wait for viewers to share all the laughter and tears along the way.”

Vernon Kay’s Celebrity Quiz Show: “Do You Know Your Place?”

Another notable addition is a new celebrity quiz show titled “Do You Know Your Place?” presented by Vernon Kay. This 20-part series, produced by Stellify Media and set to air on BBC Two, will challenge celebrities’ knowledge of the UK through various games and quizzes. The show also features Paul Gorton from “The Traitors” as Vernon’s ‘unreliable’ tour guide.

Vernon Kay elaborated on his role: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be fronting Do You Know Your Place? — it’s a cracking new quiz that’s all about the people and places we know best.

It’s got great banter, brilliant guests, and that classic British competitive streak. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.”

Return of The Finish Line

The festive season won’t be left out as “The Finish Line” returns for its fourth series in 2026 with a week of Christmas celebrity specials. Roman Kemp and Sarah Greene will host this popular quiz show, which continues to delight audiences with its unique format that combines quizzes and physical challenges.

“I’m so happy that The Finish Line is coming back to Northern Ireland to film for a fourth series and that we get to gift audiences with a Christmas special to get everyone in the festive spirit. The contestants are, as ever, a highlight,” said Roman Kemp.

Industry Context and Future Implications

The announcement of these new commissions underscores BBC Daytime’s commitment to supporting local talent and creative content. With “Ronan Keating’s Wild Atlantic” co-commissioned with BBC Northern Ireland and supported by Northern Ireland Screen, the initiative highlights the importance of regional collaboration in producing high-quality television.

Rob Unsworth commented on the significance of these new commissions: “We’re thrilled to be announcing such exciting new commissions from Northern Ireland, joining the wide range of shows already made there for Daytime and Early Peak. Expect lots of fun as The Festive Finish Line adds an irresistible seasonal sparkle to one of our most-watched quizzes.

And we can’t wait to share a brand new quiz, Do You Know Your Place? – in which Vernon Kay will see if famous faces can unpick which of the facts Paul from The Traitors tells them about our towns and cities are actually true.”

The introduction of these shows not only promises entertainment but also serves as a testament to BBC Daytime’s ongoing support for local creativity and storytelling. As audiences eagerly anticipate the debut of these new programs, they can look forward to an engaging mix of travel, knowledge testing, and festive cheer in 2026.