Thursday, 12 December 2024

Tom Daley Dives into Hosting with New Knitting Competition Game of Wool

Image: Ch4 Press

By Jon Donnis

Olympic champion Tom Daley is trading his diving board for a pair of knitting needles as he takes on his first major presenting role in Channel 4's Game of Wool (working title). This brand-new 8-part series, produced by Glasgow-based Hello Halo, promises to showcase the creativity, skill, and sheer artistry of knitting enthusiasts from across the UK.

Set in the stunning Scottish countryside, renowned for its rich knitting and wool heritage, Game of Wool will feature 10 ambitious knitters competing in a series of intricate challenges to claim the title of the UK's first TV knitting champion. The series combines teamwork and individual artistry, with each episode featuring two key challenges.

In the group knit, contestants will collaborate on a highly intricate project, testing their ability to work together under pressure. In the individual knit, competitors will tackle personalized briefs designed to push their creativity and technical expertise to the limit. From clothing and jewelry to furniture and larger-than-life sculptures, the contestants will create pieces that are as imaginative as they are skillfully crafted.

Judging their efforts are two leading figures in the world of wool, Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell, whose impressive portfolios include collaborations with major fashion brands like Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith, and NIKE. Di will evaluate their creative vision, while Sheila will scrutinize the technical precision of their work. Together, they'll decide who knits their way to victory and who unravels under the pressure.

Tom Daley, an avid knitter who made headlines for his knitting creations during the Tokyo Olympics, is thrilled about his new role.
"I am very excited, and slightly nervous, to be taking on my first ever hosting role on a project that encompasses everything I'm passionate about," Tom said. "I adore all things knitting and encourage everyone to pick up some knitting needles and give it a go! I cannot wait to see the creations our knitters will weave together, and hope this inspires people at home to get involved too!"

Wendy Rattray, Executive Producer for Hello Halo, shared her excitement about Tom joining the show.
"We're thrilled to have Tom as our host. There really couldn't be a more perfect fit, as he's now known for his knitting skills almost as much as his Olympic diving successes! Anyone can knit, and Tom reflects a whole new generation who have picked up the needles and let their imaginations run wild."

With casting now open, the series invites knitters of all levels to apply and bring their creativity to the screen. Supported by Screen Scotland and commissioned by Clemency Green, Senior Commissioning Editor, and Jo Street, Head of Lifestyle at Channel 4, Game of Wool is set to air in 2025.

Whether you're a seasoned knitter or someone who has never picked up a pair of needles, this vibrant new series promises to inspire and entertain. From breathtaking designs to nail-biting competition, Game of Wool will weave together heartwarming stories, friendly rivalry, and an undeniable passion for one of the world's oldest crafts.

Think you've got what it takes to impress Tom Daley and the judges? Applications are now open at Channel 4's Game of Wool casting page.








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