Huge BBC game show with celeb host returning to screens in just two weeks’ time

A MAJOR Saturday night game show is making its long-awaited return to BBC One in just two weeks.

The popular programme which features a slew of celebrities will be back for another outing after becoming a ratings winner.

Hosted by comedian Michael McIntyre, his BBC game show The Wheel will be back on air on Saturday 24 February at 8:10pm.

The confirmation of the popular show coming back rides hot on the heels of the success of the latest series of his variety show, Big Show.

Along with Gladiators, Michael has helped to bring BBC One to the top of the ratings battles with the latest series of Big Show and bosses will be hoping he can replicate this success once again.

On the programme, different household names choose a specialist subject in which they aim to be able to help a member of the public win big money.

However, with the unpredictable nature of The Wheel, the celebrity may not always get the subject they are at an expert at.

Some of the celebs who have taken part in the show previously include include Loose Women favourite Judi Love, comedian Katherine Ryan, TV star Mark Wright and content creator Harry Pinero.

The wheel will have some stiff competition when it kicks off however.

It will be going against the launch of Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway which is expected to premiere on rival network ITV.

The news of its return is a huge positive for Michael after the US version of the programme was binned.

After just one series, the show was cancelled after failing to perform in the US ratings.

A US TV source revealed: “Michael was given a prime time slot and millions of dollars was put into giving the show the best chance to succeed.

“The channel also booked some major US celebrities like Christina Ricci, Ricki Lake and Tony Hawk.

“But sadly it just did not capture the imagination of audiences.

"American fans did not warm to the show or the contest.”

A senior insider at NBC confirmed: “The Wheel is not returning.”