top of page

Holly Willoughby and Lee Mack to host Wim Hof’s Superstar Survival for BBC One

The six-part series will also have a six-part sister show on BBC Three.


Announced during this year's Edinburgh Television Festival, BBC One and BBC Three will be bringing viewers a brand new entertainment reality show titled Wim Hof’s Superstar Survival, which follow a group of soul-searching celebrities as they embark on an epic adventure of self-improvement, and face a unique test of mental strength like no other, under the guidance of ‘extreme athlete’ and well-being icon Wim Hof, aka ‘The Iceman’.


Along the way, this ambitious, fresh and thrilling format promises genuine reality, high drama, jeopardy and plenty of laughs.


Wim Hof’s Superstar Survival will be hosted by Wim superfan Holly Willoughby and Lee Mack.


The celebrities taking part will be tackling wild and death-defying challenges in Europe’s harshest conditions, for a journey of serious self-discovery in a bid to defeat their demons, from anxiety and insomnia to ongoing health conditions, and they will all need to dig deep to embrace the sub-zero temperatures.


With A-list followers ranging from Tom Cruise to Justin Bieber and Oprah to David Beckham, Wim Hof earnt his nickname after setting world records that defied modern medicine: Running a half marathon above the Arctic Circle barefoot, submerging himself in ice for 1hr52mins and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in just his shorts and shoes.


Wim teaches people from all over the world, from celebrities and professional athletes to people of all ages, to control their body and mind and achieve extraordinary things.


In addition to the main series on BBC One, BBC Three will offer viewers a sister show which will delve deeper into the unique challenges the celebrities will face, promising behind the scenes action, hilarious and bone-chilling challenges and an exclusive light-hearted take on the BBC One series.


Speaking about the new series, Wim Hof said "I’ve dedicated my life to discovering how to become happier, healthier and stronger, and anything I can do, you can do too."


"It’s a dream come true to be making this show with the BBC and share what I’ve learnt with millions of people. I am going to show this group of celebrities that the cold is a doorway to their soul and if they use the power of their mind anything is possible."

Speaking about Holly Willoughby said "I can’t wait to team up with Lee and Wim on this show. Lee is a favourite in our house because he’s so hilariously funny and I’ve been a fan of Wim for a long time – he’s a genius who’s incredibly passionate about helping others."


"This show is going to be brilliantly entertaining and you never know…you may find out some things that could help you along the way too."


To which co-host Lee Mack, added "My passions in life are Wim Hof, watching ‘This Morning’ in my undies, sub-zero temperatures, looking at celebrities sitting in cold water and free hotels. But trying to find a show that combines these has proved tricky. Finally, I’ve found one."


BBC's Director of Entertainment, Kate Phillips said "Wim Hof’s Superstar Survival will put celebrities through their paces like never before. I’m looking forward to seeing how they cope with such extreme challenges under the watchful eye of the ultimate Cold King, Wim Hof. With Lee and Holly guiding us through and taking it very seriously of course, it promises to be a very funny, and frosty watch!"


And Hungry Bear Media's MD, Dan Baldwin added "Teaming up Lee Mack and Holly Willoughby is exciting enough for BBC One viewers…but then add in the ‘tour de force’ that is Wim Hof…plus a group of celebrities trying to better themselves in some of the most dangerous conditions on earth…and what you get is quite simply unmissable TV."


Further information, including hosts of the BBC Three spin-off series, broadcast information and details of the celebrities taking part will be announced in due course.


Wim Hof’s Superstar Survival will air on BBC One with a spin-off on BBC Three

bottom of page