10 Upfronts: Betting big on BIG BROTHER and returning favourites in 2026

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Paramount Australia turned on the lights (and soon the livestreams) at Dreamworld today, unveiling its 2026 lineup for Network 10, but don’t call it an Upfront — though it certainly looked the part.

Held tonight to coincide with Sunday night’s relaunch of Big Brother Australia, the event doubled as a glittery showcase of what’s to come next year: a mix of reliable favourites, reality revamps, and one very big bet on the return of 24/7 Big Brother.

Tamara Simoneau, Paramount Australia’s Vice President of Content, called 2026 “the year of new eras, reinvigorated favourites and returning comfort shows,” signalling a steady-as-she-goes approach following a year of cautious rebuilding.

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Paramount’s 2026 slate unveiled at Dreamworld, headlined by Big Brother and a mix of returning favourites (image – supplied)

Leading the charge, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! will once again kick off the new year with Robert Irwin and Julia Morris returning to the jungle, while Australian Survivor re-emerges with a fresh theme — “Redemption” — and new host David “Golden God” Genat stepping behind the torch-snuffer.

Reality fans can also expect the previously announced The Traitors Australia to return with Gretel Killeen, this time featuring an all-star lineup from across the Aussie TV universe — including Dicko, Keira Maguire, Rhys Nicholson and even Big Brother alum Tully Smyth.

There’s a new spin on quiz nights too, with Millionaire Hot Seat rebooted under Rebecca Gibney, alongside new docuseries Sydney Harbour Cops and The Animal Sanctuary out of Tasmania.

Comedy mainstays Have You Been Paying Attention?, The Cheap Seats and Taskmaster Australia will all be back, as will Sam Pang’s tonight show vehicle Sam Pang Tonight.

Elsewhere, MasterChef Australia, The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition, Deal or No Deal, Gogglebox Australia and Selling Houses Australia return for more, while international dramas like NCIS, Elsbeth and Matlock continue to anchor 10’s scripted slate.

On the sports front, Paramount is again promising “every moment, every goal and all the glory,” with ongoing coverage of the CommBank Matildas and Socceroos, plus live broadcasts from the A-Leagues, NBL, MotoGP, Formula 1 and, from January, select UFC events.

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But the immediate spotlight is on Dreamworld — where Big Brother officially moves back in this Sunday night. Now fronted by Mel Tracina, the reboot promises a return to its roots with live nominations, live evictions and round-the-clock streaming from the Gold Coast.

What wasn’t mentioned

Noticeably absent from the 2026 schedule were a number of established 10 titles, with the network seemingly using the year to reset and reconsider its options, and “rested” quietly becoming the new axed.

Announced last year, yet still unseen:

10 will not be proceeding with the previously announced fourth series of Todd Sampson’s Mirror Mirror (titled Why?), with the series being released back to its creator and now expected to premiere elsewhere.

The made-for-TV/streaming movie Staycation, a feature-length Christmas comedy from Ludo (producers of Bluey), is understood to still be in development, potentially for next Christmas?

Meanwhile, the expected second season of Taskmaster Australia (fifth season overall), originally anticipated to air this year, has been held over for 2026 and will feature Anisa Nandaula, Brett Blake, Celia Pacquola, Joel Creasey, and Rove McManus as contestants.

Currently airing or recently seen in 2025 but unmentioned today:

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Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation only just wrapped its rebooted run this week, with the network understood to be happy with its performance and a decision on another season expected in the coming weeks.

The Dog House Australia, Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia, House Hunters Australia, The Inspired Unemployed’s Impractical Jokers and new series for 2026 The List (both co-commissions with Paramount+) are all understood to be “rested” for 2026.

Series that didn’t return in 2025 — and now look unlikely to in 2026:

Hunted, Dessert Masters, Thank God You’re Here, Shark Tank, Wheel of Fortune Australia (which we understand was just intended as a short-run event series), and Ambulance Australia all appear to have reached the end of the road.

Bondi Rescue, an acquired series for the network rather than a commission, spanning 18 seasons and over 200 episodes, and last seen in 2024, has also not been included in the 2026 lineup.

With steady scheduling, familiar formats, and a healthy dose of nostalgia, Paramount’s “not-an-Upfront” may have skipped the fireworks — but it’s clear where the network’s biggest bet lies: in the house that reality TV built.

From 10/Paramount:

2026 Looks Bright As The Stars Align On 10

There’s a lot of glitz, glamour and sparkle still to come in 2025, and next year is looking even brighter, with your favourite shows and stars set to dazzle on 10 in 2026.

Tamara Simoneau, Vice President, Content, Paramount Australia said:

“2026 is the year of new eras, reinvigorated favourites and returning comfort shows, and we are so excited for Australia to come along for the ride.”


I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

Kicking off the year once again, Robert Irwin and Lady Julia Morris return to the jungles of Africa with a new batch of celebs for I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

Keep your eyes peeled as we start rolling out clues as to who will be taking a first-class flight into a first-class fright when the series returns in January 2026.

Robert Irwin said:

“I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve got in store this season! Every year the trials get bigger, the stars get braver and the jungle gets wilder. It’s going to be an unforgettable ride. See you in the jungle!”

Julia Morris said:

“To get to present the show I love, alongside one of the biggest superstars in the world right now, is the purest of joys. Robert and I are beside ourselves to return to our spiritual showbiz home in South Africa for Season 12 of our beloved I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Get ready celebs, we are ready to tango! (Actually, I am not ready to tango).”


Australian Survivor: Redemption

After successfully taking over the world, Australian Survivor returns in 2026 with a brand-new host, and a brand-new theme: Redemption.

For the first time, each of the 24 players will enter with a personal mission – something to prove, or a regret to make right. They’re not just playing to win; they’re playing to rewrite the story of who they are.

Third-time players Harry Hills, Simon Mee and Brooke Jowett return for their shot at redemption, alongside Mark Warnock from 2024’s Titans V Rebels. These former players won’t be the only ones with some game experience under their belt as Big Brother’s Johnson Ashak and The Traitors New Zealand’s Cat Hooker try their hand at the world’s greatest game.

They will be joined by pro wrestler Jackson, MMA fighter Cameron, CEO Richard, AFL Indigenous talent lead Ben, acupuncturist Blanche, students Tez and Sally, chef Faith, fraud prevention specialist Keeley, truck driver Caleb, country musician Don, model Lyndl, stay-at-home mum Loz, vet nurse Paula, pastor Daniel, artist Lottie, NDIS support worker Aisha and writer Eliza.

Set to snuff the torches of castaways is a former player who is widely considered one of the greatest of all time — David “Golden God” Genat.

David Genat said:

“Next year, a new era begins for Australian Survivor. I cannot wait for the challenge and am so honoured to be part of this brilliant new season.”


The Traitors

From surviving on an island to surviving the night, the global smash-hit social deduction series The Traitors returns next year with the OG reality TV host, Gretel Killeen, in command.

This season promises to be devious, as faces from across Aussie reality TV go head-to-head in brutal banishments, hoping to sniff out the Traitors hiding amongst them.

Stars from Real Housewives, Australian Idol, Australian Survivor, Love Island, MasterChef Australia, Married at First Sight, Aussie Shore, Big Brother and more will fight for their lives, as they attempt to play the game that has captivated the world.

The all-star line-up includes:
Ian “Dicko” Dickson and Cosima De Vito (Australian Idol),
Gamble Breaux and Krissy Marsh (Real Housewives),
Rhys Nicholson and Kween Kong (Drag Race Down Under),
Shane Gould and Kirby Bentley (Australian Survivor),
Henry Nicholson and AJ Antonios (Australian Survivor),
Keira Maguire and Alex Nation (The Bachelor),
Cam Merchant (Married At First Sight),
Alvin Quah (MasterChef Australia),
Manaaki Hoepo (Aussie Shore),
Rachael Evren and Claudia Bonifazio (Love Island),
Josh and Luke Packham (The Block),
Tully Smyth (Big Brother),
Lawson Mahoney (Made In Bondi), and
musician Rob Farnham, son of Aussie legend John Farnham.

Gretel Killeen said:

“Hosting The Traitors is a joyful milestone in my career. In the magical South Island of New Zealand, we’ve created a series that not only embraces the much-loved format but also adds a pinch of soap opera and a drizzle of pantomime to create a unique and delicious series.”


Millionaire Hot Seat

Everyday Aussies will have the opportunity to win a life-changing sum of money when Millionaire Hot Seat comes to 10, hosted by Rebecca Gibney.

Testing their nerves and general knowledge, each episode will see six contestants enter the arena, facing 15 challenging questions and the chance to walk away with up to $1,000,000.

Rebecca Gibney said:

“I’m not sure I’ll be the most composed game show host because, so far, there have been chair spins, lots of laughter, and more than a few tears! It’s such a privilege to be able to spend time getting to know everyday Aussies and to watch them win life-changing amounts of money. It’s the most exhilarating, challenging, and extraordinary thing I’ve ever done.”


Sydney Harbour Cops

With unprecedented access to the Sydney and NSW Water Police at Marine Area Command (MAC), Sydney Harbour Cops is a new observational documentary series following the dedicated team of officers navigating the iconic waters of the harbour city.

From underwater searches to daring rescue missions, confronting offenders head-on to missing persons cases, this real-life drama series shines a spotlight on the brave officers risking their lives to protect our waters.


The Animal Sanctuary

Moving further south, welcome to The Animal Sanctuary, a series that looks inside Tasmania’s Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, and the young family who have taken on the task of running an entire island’s wildlife rescue operation.


MasterChef Australia

This year we watched as Laura Sharrad finally made her dream come true as her name was etched into the MasterChef Australia trophy. Third time truly was the charm, and in 2026 we can’t wait to see the fresh faces joining judges Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin, and Jean-Christophe Novelli.


The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition

Having just wrapped another brilliant season, host Beau Ryan is already itching to top up those frequent flyer points.

Beau will be heading back around the globe next year with more teams of celebs and their loved ones, each hoping to win $100,000 for their chosen charity.


Comedy & Entertainment

In 2026, 10 will continue to be the home of Australian TV comedy.

The Logie-winning favourite Have You Been Paying Attention? returns with host Tom Gleisner and his regular panel pals Sam Pang and Ed Kavalee.

Sam Pang will also be back with even more Sam Pang Tonight — promising big laughs, huge celebrity guests, and the occasional famous person being pushed into a Christmas tree.

Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald return with The Cheap Seats, while Taskmaster Australia continues with Tom Gleeson and Tom Cashman setting challenges for Anisa Nandaula, Brett Blake, Celia Pacquola, Joel Creasey and Rove McManus.


Returning Favourites

There’s plenty more to come, with returning favourites for the whole family like:
Deal or No Deal, Gogglebox Australia, David Attenborough’s Parenthood, Selling Houses Australia, Airport 24/7, The Graham Norton Show and Love It Or List It Australia.


International Dramas

You want drama? 10 has all your favourite international hits including NCIS, Watson, Elsbeth and Matlock.


News

When it comes to news, you’ll never miss the stories that matter when our dedicated 10 News teams keep you in the loop — from 10 News Lunchtime to 10 News Late.


Sport

Paramount Australia continues to be the home of Australian football — delivering every moment, every goal and all the glory from the CommBank Matildas and CommBank Socceroos, including the Tillies’ AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign on home soil in 2026.

Fans can also look forward to two Isuzu UTE A-League Men matches back-to-back on Saturdays, A-League Women games live on 10 Streaming, and Sunday NBL double-headers.

The Australian MotoGP returns, along with the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in March, and select live UFC events will join the lineup from January.


Big Brother Australia

Before 2026 begins, Big Brother returns home to 10 on November 9, with new host Mel Tracina at the helm.

Returning to its roots with live nominations, live evictions, and 24/7 livestreaming from Dreamworld, the show saw over 20,000 applications for its new crop of housemates.

Mel Tracina said:

“I’m thrilled that we’re bringing the OG reality TV blockbuster back to 10 and I can promise you: it will be just as surprising, just as innovative and just as unmissable as it was a quarter of a century ago.”


Imposter

In December, double lives collide when new Australian drama Imposter premieres on 10.

It’s going to be a huge year, full of stars doing what they do best — sparkling. See you in 2026; it will be out of this world!

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Kyle Laidlaw
Kyle Laidlaw
Co-Owner and News Editor at TV Blackbox, Kyle Laidlaw is an avid media enthusiast with over 10 years of experience. Kyle regularly follows all things TV related, both in Australia and overseas with a particular interest in local free-to-air scheduling and new show commissions.
Comments

52 COMMENTS

  1. A pretty ho-hum, steady as she goes lineup for Ten next year. No major surprises, considering The Traitors, Hot Seat, and Survivor’s new host were all announced ahead of time. The one thing I did notice was an increase in factuals and observationals with Sydney Harbour Cops and The Animal Sanctuary, which is good to see. So far, I do like this lineup the best of all the networks so far. Your move, ABC and SBS.

  2. I just hope it’s a longer full season in 2026, feels like we are only going to get a taster of Big Brother

    • Michael Coles apparently they had some challenges with showing it any earlier due to the previous contract the production company had with Seven.

      • Chris Thuell they should have just waited till next year it may have rated better less people watch TV at this time of year and such a short season seem pointless

  3. What is it with 10…Wall to wall reality shows…what about a good australian drama series…similar to 7’s RFDSwhich is rating through the roof

    • Paul Foley Yep, between cooking shows, soaps, reality shows and games shows, there’s nothing else

    • Paul Foley you just have to understand the direction of mainstream free to air television. This is pretty much what you will get, give another decade and that’s all there will be or nothing at all as Netflix takes over. It’s a sign of the times. A lot of people have tuned out of free to air already.

    • Paul Foley because they are targeting a different demographic, that’s the thing about tv you have a remote 🤯 you can choose what to watch. There is no point in all the channels don’t the same thing.

      • Matt Parker trouble is your choices at the same time is which reality/love game/building show/talent quest I will watch, or rather avoid the most.

    • You were on the money about reality programmes, but I have no idea how RFDS is rating so well, the ridiculous storyline of the advertising turned me off it immediately.

    • Channel 7 don’t own nor a sister company with a steaming service. Channel 9 own Stan. Channel 10 & Paramount+ are owned by Paramount. Channel 7 need to put all their scripted stuff on free-to-air. 9 & 10 can keep it for streaming

  4. Not much announced we didn’t already know about. Praying for a bunch of the unknowns to get good news soon. TGYH, TBYG, and TaskMaster S6&7 please! Hoping for shorter season of MasterChef and a full season of BB!

  5. Don’t understand why it’s airing in non-ratings season. Probably the influence of streaming services.

      • Chris Thuell What’s your point if it continues for 12 weeks or so only starting again in first week of February and it’s now almost mid-November.

    • Brian Teitzel Channel 7 had a holdover of the show which prevented Channel 10 from starting any audition process until the holdover ended in the middle of the year.

      • Brian Teitzel apparently Channel 7 renewed BB for a 2024 season after seeing the success of the UK reboot and was planning on making it a Live Show but it abandoned those plans.

    • Brian Teitzel oh I couldn’t stand her at the time – Sarah Maree. Ick. hahaha But the country LOVED her. The original virtue signalling crowd I think 😉

    • Joshi Lyons that was cancelled a long time ago due to the same reasons of cancelling The Project originally cancelling the Traitors before rebooting it and canceling Jonathan Lapaglia it’s all about money and budget. Yet bringing back Big Brother which is all about high technology and building a house etc that cost money. Channel ten is run by hypocrites

  6. This looks like a dreadful output and very sparse. Sad, tired reality formats that are dwindling or have no place even being recommissioned and the same comedians forced down our throats. No hits, no Australian dramas, not even an NCIS Sydney mention (Season 2 was supposed to air in 2025). Not surprised they dumped Ghosts Australia in October, perfect excuse not to recommission as it hasn’t finished airing the season.

    I think 10 will sink even further next year.

  7. The press release could have just said “2026, same rubbish, some new rubbish, different year.”

    A steady as you go cautious rebuilding, I haven’t noticed any real changes in a decade.

  8. Very happy that but brother Australia will be back in 2026 and the traitors Australia finally returns 🥳

    • Yes that is true but she can do work on BB as well .
      Just saying she would be awesome to host Friday Night Games if they bring it back for next season . . .

    • Daniel Adin I feel like Gretel has moved forward and Mel is an up and comer. For Gretel to go back particularly just to Friday night would be like a demotion instead of the promotion I reckon she’s got.

    • I see your point but to see her back would be awesome .

      I am hoping she is in the Celebrity edition now that would be great tv 😁

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