For TV and film alike this year, it's all about the Robots.
'Mr Robot' just scooped a Golden Globe for Best TV Series, while Alicia Vikander is nominated for a BAFTA for her android role in 'Ex Machina'. Now, in arguably the best news of all, 'Robot Wars' is making a return to TV.
A brand new series of the man and machine battle series has been commissioned for BBC Two, it was announced today.
Philippa Forrester was a host of the original show, which drew six million viewers at its height
Six new episodes of the hour-long show will feature a new structure, including more robots, more battles and more science than previously, including more innovative fighting machines as teams of amateur roboteers battle it out to win the precious Robot Wars title.
The new series is set to be recorded in a purpose-built arena in Glasgow, and prospective competitors can apply to take part by contacting: robotwars@mentorn.tv
BBC Two's controller Kim Shillinglaw says today: “Robot Wars is an absolute TV classic and I'm thrilled to be updating it for the next generation of viewers. With new technological advances making for an even more exciting and immersive experience this is a fantastic example of the kind of content-rich factual entertainment that BBC Two excels at.”
The original series ran on BBC Two from 1998 to 2001, before moving to BBC Choice, then Channel 5. With hosts Craig Charles and Philippa Forrester, in its heyday the show attracted up to six million UK viewers.
No word yet, but who do you think would be the perfect host for the new series of 'Robot Wars'?
Meanwhile, some people are already getting warmed up, by the look of things...