Mel Giedroyc To Front ‘Pictionary’ Series Based On Mattel Game For British Network ITV

Former Great British Bake Off presenter Mel Giedroyc will front a British version of Pictionary, the TV series adapted from the Mattel game.

Based on the sketching and guessing game, the series will pit two teams led by celebrity captains against each other. Each player’s mission is to draw images to match a word or phrase from a specific category so their teammates can correctly guess.

The 25-episode ITV show will run on the broadcast network and streamer ITVX at the end of 2024. Whisper North is producing after Laura Burrell, Vice President, International Formats, Paramount Global Content Distribution, brokered a deal with ITV.

The series has been commissioned by Katie Rawcliffe, Director of Entertainment & Daytime Commissioning, ITV and Leanne Clarke, Assistant Commissioner, ITV. Exec producers are Kerri Reid and Tom McLennan from Whisper North, which also produces the current UK versions of Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune on ITV. 

“I am thrilled we are bringing this much loved game show to the UK,” said Rawcliffe. “It’s perfect for all the family to enjoy and play along at home. With Mel Giedroyc at the helm, Pictionary is in the hands of a true entertainer. Her infectious energy and quick wit make her the perfect choice to host the show.”

“I have played Pictionary with my children for many years and know this show will be a great hit across the UK, especially as a Christmas special,” said Sunil Patel, Whisper co-founder and CEO. “We have an incredible production team, as well as a great talent at the helm in Mel. Pictionary is a great addition to the Whisper slate and huge thanks to ITV for making this happen.”

Pictionary is currently on a third season in the U.S., where it is syndicated nationally. Jerry O’Connell fronts that version, which is from Fox First Run, Bill’s Market & Television Productions, and Mattel Television Studios.