Think you’ve got what it takes to be the next big voice in football commentary? The BBC is betting that the next generation of pundits is brewing on social media, and they’re launching a competition to find them. “Last Pundit Standing” is a new series that pits twelve passionate football content creators against each other in a battle of wits, knowledge, and on-camera charisma. Forget the stuffy studios and well-worn talking points; this competition takes place at some of the most iconic football locations, providing a fresh perspective on the world of sports analysis.
Hosted by Troy Deeney and James Lawrence Allcott, the series follows the twelve competitors – Toby Addison, Ally Tomlinson, Cathal Traquair, Fuad Abdul Aziz, Rukiah Ally, Jess Watkins, Raees Mahmood, Reggie Yembra, Nancy Baker, Nahyan Chowdhury, Lia Lewis, and Oscar Browning – as they tackle a series of challenges designed to test their football acumen and broadcasting skills. Over seven 15-minute episodes, airing on BBC Three and iPlayer, “Last Pundit Standing” will winnow down the field until only one remains.
This collaboration between the BBC, Creator Lab, and BBC Sport highlights a shift in how sports media identifies and nurtures new talent. Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC Director of Sport, went so far as to call these creators “the future of the football media industry.” Fiona Campbell, BBC Controller of Youth Audience, BBC iPlayer and BBC Three, noted the importance of supporting new talent within the BBC.
Produced by Boom Social (part of ITV Studios) and JLA Productions, “Last Pundit Standing” has all the hallmarks of a fast-paced, entertaining search for the next big thing in football punditry. Transmission details are yet to be announced, but with big-name special guests and “huge moments” teased by series Executive Producer Cai Morgan, it sounds like a must-watch for football fans.
