BBC announce host of Have I Got News For You as show returns for a record-breaking 65th series 

The BBC has announced that the beloved comedy show, Have I Got News For You, is set to return with a record-breaking 65th series.

Paul Merton and Ian Hislop will reprise their roles as team captains, while a host of guest stars will join them throughout the series.

The announcement was made on Monday, with the show’s Executive Producer, Richard Wilson, saying: “Have I Got News For You is one of the BBC’s most iconic shows and we are delighted to announce that it is returning for a record-breaking 65th series.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing back Paul Merton and Ian Hislop as team captains, as well as a whole host of guest stars joining them throughout the series.”

The series will be broadcast on BBC One, with the first episode airing on Friday 14th August.

Of the show’s long-running success, Merton said: “I’m delighted to be back on Have I Got News For You, it’s been a joy to be part of the show since it started.

“It’s amazing to think that we’ve been going strong for 65 series and that we’re still going strong.”

Hislop added: “It’s been a great privilege to be part of Have I Got News For You for so long.

“I look forward to more of the same when we return to the screen this August.”

The new series will be the first to feature a permanent host since Angus Deayton’s departure in 2002.

Comedian and actor Tom Allen has been chosen as the show’s new permanent host, and will be joined by a variety of guest hosts throughout the series.

Allen said: “I am delighted to be joining Have I Got News For You. It’s a show I’ve watched and loved for many years and I’m honoured to be hosting it.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my own style to the show and I’m sure the viewers will love it.”

The show’s 65th series will be broadcast on BBC One from 14th August.