“Homes Under the Hammer” made its debut on BBC One on 17th November 2003, and it’s gearing up for a grand celebration of its 20th Anniversary. For the first time ever, each special episode will feature a celebrity host, a new property, and a memorable moment from the archive. A double-bill is scheduled to air on the anniversary date.
The celebrity guests, all avid fans of the programme, will relish the chance to offer their unique insights as they brainstorm ideas for transforming the properties. Martin Roberts will kick off the anniversary festivities with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen in Bristol, followed by Martel Maxwell and Alex Jones in London. Laurence will give Martin a run for his money in the fashion department, and then share advice on repurposing a retro avocado bathroom suite. Alex will express her fondness for original features. The celebrities will also introduce the iconic phrase, ‘Let’s find out what happened when it went under the hammer’, before meeting the successful auction bidders who are now the new owners.
Later in the year, Dion Dublin will be accompanied by Toyah Wilcox in Birmingham, Jacqui Joseph will co-host with Owain Wyn Evans in Wales, and Tommy Walsh will receive a helping hand from Amanda Lovett, The Traitors’ favourite, in Buckinghamshire.
“Homes Under the Hammer” was an instant hit in 2003, offering both entertainment and invaluable property advice. It has solidified its place as a beloved fixture in the BBC Daytime schedule. The new episodes promise everything from the suspense of auctions to the drama of renovations, culminating in big reveals and delightful musical accompaniments.
Over the years, this popular programme has traversed the UK, visiting numerous property auction lots in over 1450 episodes. The series continues to be one of BBC One’s most successful shows.
“Who would have thought back in 2003 when I uttered those immortal lines ‘let’s find out what happened when it went ‘under the hammer’ for the first time, that I’d still be saying them 20 years on? But I am. And I’m so very proud to have been part of this much-loved show that’s been bringing entertainment and inspiration to viewers for a spectacularly long time.” – Martin Roberts
“20 years of Homes Under the Hammer, and we’re still going strong. A Juggernaut of a show that never seems to get old, and people absolutely love. I’m so privileged to be a part of it for the last nine years, it’s a special show and long may it continue… for another 20 years!” – Dion Dublin
“This is my favourite programme of all time. I’ve watched it for years so this feels like a real treat to be with you.” – Alex Jones
“I’m so excited to be here with you. I’ve watched this show since it first began so I have learnt so much.” – Toyah Wilcox
“I love Homes Under the Hammer. I’ve watched this programme for years so I’m thrilled to be on the programme.” – Owain Wyn Evans
Muslim Alim, Commissioning Editor Factual Daytime Commissioning, says: “Homes Under the Hammer is arguably one of the heroes of BBC Daytime and a factual entertainment triumph: The BBC is proud to celebrate 20 years of the show and audiences can expect lots of entertainment as we invite celebrities to join our presenters as property experts and revisit some of our favourite past properties courtesy of the rich archive.”
Lisa Hazlehurst, Head of Lion Scotland says: “Who doesn’t love a birthday party and here at Lion Scotland we are celebrating – we’re immensely proud of Homes under the Hammer. The show’s 20th birthday is testament to the viewing nation’s enduring love for the series which taps into Britain’s collective psyche and obsession with creating homes from bricks and mortar. As well as a brilliantly entertaining format the show’s success is also down to the hugely creative and dedicated teams on both sides of the camera. Many Happy Returns!”
“Homes Under the Hammer” is commissioned for BBC One by Muslim Alim, Commissioning Editor for BBC Daytime and Early-Peak. The series is a Lion Television Scotland production produced by Lisa Hazlehurst, Head of Lion Television Scotland, Mat Marsters, Executive Producer, and Sam Postlethwaite, Senior Producer.
The special anniversary episodes will air on Friday 17th November at 11:15am on BBC One and iPlayer.
