Pictionary Game Show Coming to ITV

Mattel has inked a deal with ITV for a U.K. adaptation of the game show Pictionary, produced by Whisper North.

Hosted by Mel Giedroyc, the U.K. version is slated to premiere on ITV1 and ITVX in December with a Christmas special. It will then go on to have a 24-episode season run.

Giedroyc will be joined by two celebrity team captains, who will lead their teams of contestants in the mission to draw images to match a word or phrase from a specific category and have their teammates guess correctly.

The format’s U.S. version, hosted by Jerry O’Connell and produced by Fox First Run, Bill’s Market & Television Productions and Mattel Television Studios, is currently in its third season.

“Everyone is familiar with Pictionary, and I am so excited to help bring the game to life on television,” Giedroyc said. “It is such a pleasure to be a part of, and I know people will love the show.”

“Mattel is excited to see Pictionary’s popularity with viewers, and we can’t wait to bring this beloved game show to U.K. audiences, inviting even more fans of the classic game to join in on the fun,” commented Alex Godfrey, VP of content distribution at Mattel.

“I am thrilled we are bringing this much loved game show to the U.K.,” said Katie Rawcliffe, director of entertainment and daytime at ITV. “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.”

Leanne Clarke, assistant commissioner for daytime at ITV, added, “We hope viewers will come up with their own hilarious guesses and show their inner artist. And it is, of course, fantastic to have Mel hosting such an iconic game.”

“I have played Pictionary with my children for many years and know this show will be a great hit across the U.K.—especially as a Christmas special,” commented Sunil Patel, co-founder and CEO of Whisper. “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.”

“We are thrilled to bring the world’s most popular drawing game show to the U.K. audience with Pictionary,” said Laura Burrell, VP of international formats at Paramount Global Content Distribution, who brokered the deal. “Our relationship with Mattel as well as Whisper North and ITV continues to grow with this brand.”