The wait is finally over, and snooker fans are in for the thrill of a lifetime: Big Break, the legendary snooker show that captured the hearts of millions in the ’90s, is making a dramatic return to BBC — and it’s bringing a fresh twist, new faces, and of course, the same heart-pounding snooker action!
After nearly two decades, the iconic game show is returning to TV screens, but this time, it’s in the hands of Two of the biggest names in the entertainment and snooker worlds: Paddy McGuinness and the living snooker legend himself, Stephen Hendry! Get ready for the most exciting, high-stakes snooker competition you’ve ever seen, with a revamp that promises to be as electrifying as a cue ball hitting the felt!
A Show Like No Other Returns to the BBC
Originally running from 1991 to 2002, Big Break was a Saturday night sensation, where contestants faced off against professional snooker players in three rounds of jaw-dropping trick shots. Hosted by the charismatic Jim Davidson and featuring the legendary John Virgo as referee, the show became a staple in British television. Now, after years of fans calling for its return, the BBC is bringing Big Break back — and they’re making sure it’s bigger and bolder than ever before!
The first big shock? The show’s move from BBC1 to BBC2, and the addition of Paddy McGuinness as co-host, alongside none other than the snooker maestro himself, Stephen Hendry. The show is set to air during daytime on BBC2, a major shift from its original Saturday evening slot, but McGuinness and Hendry are ready to bring their A-game to make sure Big Break is just as captivating for today’s audience.
Paddy McGuinness Is Thrilled to Join the Snooker Action
“I’m absolutely delighted to be a part of Big Break,” McGuinness said in a statement. “It’s one of those shows everyone knows and loves, so to be hosting it alongside a legend like Stephen Hendry is something special. Bring it on!” With McGuinness’ sharp wit and Hendry’s unmatched snooker skills, there’s no doubt that the energy on set will be off the charts. This pair promises to bring the kind of charm and excitement that will keep audiences glued to their screens!
But what about the format? It’s staying true to what fans know and love. In each episode, three contestants will go head-to-head with professional snooker players in a series of mind-bending trick shots, with a cash prize at the end for the winning team.
Stephen Hendry: The Snooker Legend Returns
Hendry, who will not only be co-hosting but also showcasing his trick shots, is thrilled to bring Big Break back to life. “Big Break was a unique mix of trick shots and great entertainment. I can’t wait to be back at the table and bringing this incredible show to a whole new audience,” Hendry said. “Who knows, we might even inspire the next generation of snooker players to pick up a cue!”
With Hendry’s return, fans can expect to see a level of snooker mastery that’s simply unrivaled. He’s not just there to commentate — he’ll be getting involved, demonstrating some of his iconic shots, and keeping the energy high throughout.
The Return of Big Break: More Than Just Snooker

What truly sets Big Break apart from every other game show is its heart. The combination of thrilling snooker challenges, the infectious energy of the hosts, and the camaraderie between contestants and their pros made it a cultural phenomenon. The format, with contestants competing alongside professional snooker players, has remained iconic over the years, and now, it’s ready to capture a new generation’s imagination.
Fans of snooker have been begging for Big Break to make a comeback, and it seems that the BBC has answered their prayers. The show will feature some of the biggest snooker stars, both familiar faces and rising talents, taking to the stage to show off their incredible skills. And who knows? The competition may just produce a few stars of its own!
Can Big Break Recapture the Magic?
As Big Break returns to our screens, there’s one big question: Will the new format live up to the legacy of the original show? McGuinness and Hendry’s chemistry and their ability to draw in the audience will play a huge part in deciding whether this reboot becomes an instant classic. The show’s new daytime slot on BBC2 will be an experiment, but with the snooker fandom at an all-time high (the recent World Championships racked up 120 million viewing hours!), there’s no doubt that the show is going to attract a huge following.
The new series promises 20 episodes, each lasting 30 minutes, and fans can expect all the high-energy action they remember from the original. But this time, they’ll get a chance to get up close and personal with the snooker pros, getting behind the ball and seeing the action from a brand-new perspective.
Big Break is Back — and It’s Better Than Ever!
Get ready, because Big Break is making a major comeback — and this time, it’s not just about snooker. It’s about drama, excitement, and the undeniable magic of live television. The stage is set, the pros are ready, and Paddy McGuinness and Stephen Hendry are about to take you on the ride of a lifetime. Are you ready to see who will take home the ultimate prize?
The show will start filming soon, and it’s shaping up to be a must-watch for snooker lovers and casual viewers alike. Stay tuned, because the Big Break revolution is just getting started!


