ITV has announced the acquisition of The Assembly, a unique entertainment series originally piloted on the BBC. Adapted from the acclaimed French series Les Rencontres du Papotin, the show promises to be a bold addition to ITV’s 2025 line up, blending heart warming authenticity with unpredictable, unscripted moments.
The programme’s premise is unlike any other: a panel of neurodivergent, autistic, and learning-disabled individuals interviews celebrities in a format free from scripts or pre-approved questions. This candid approach results in deeply personal, often humorous exchanges that are as touching as they are unpredictable.
From BBC pilot to full ITV series
The Assembly first aired as a BBC pilot, featuring actor Michael Sheen as its guest. The pilot garnered widespread critical acclaim, with Chitra Ramaswamy of The Guardian describing it as “a breath of fresh air.” Reflecting on his experience, Sheen shared: “The Assembly’s had more response than anything I’ve ever done.”
Now, ITV has committed to a four-episode series, expanding the format’s reach to a broader audience. Katie Rawcliffe, ITV’s Director of Entertainment and Daytime, praised the acquisition, saying: “The Assembly is such a distinct, clever, and authentic format, and one that we’re absolutely thrilled to commission for a full first series for ITV1 and ITVX. I can’t wait for The Assembly interviewers to ask our brilliant cast of celebrities a plethora of burning questions, which will no doubt make for must-watch TV.”
The show represents ITV’s ongoing efforts to champion inclusivity and diversify its entertainment slate. Produced by Rockerdale Studios, the series has collaborated with local and national neurodivergent organisations to ensure authenticity at every stage of production.
Michelle Singer and Stu Richards from Rockerdale Studios shared their enthusiasm, stating: “This show will be funny and naughty and warm and smart, and, bloody hell, we’ve got ourselves all worked up now… we just cannot wait to make it.”
A proven formula
The original French version of The Assembly has featured high-profile guests such as Killing Eve star Camille Cottin and French President Emmanuel Macron, who memorably faced a cheeky question about whether it’s appropriate to marry your teacher. The UK adaptation will aim to retain this playful, no-holds-barred atmosphere, while tailoring the content to British audiences.
The celebrity lineup for ITV’s series remains under wraps, but with its bold format and premise, The Assembly is set to be a highlight of ITV’s upcoming schedule.
