The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023: Hosts, performers and all the details

Virgin Radio

21 Dec 2023, 09:30

Get ready to see in the New Year with some of the biggest stars at The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023. 

The annual star-studded spectacular is back with even more music and entertainment from the OVO Arena Wembley. 

This year, the show will look back at the key events and most memorable moments of 2023, as well as celebrating extraordinary people and the difference they have made thanks to National Lottery funding.

There will be plenty of famous faces to spot when the show goes live on New Year’s Eve (31st December) and we’ve got all the details!

Who is hosting The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023?

Back once again for hosting duties will be Jason Manford and Alesha Dixon, who will present the night’s festivities from wholesome moments to spectacular performances. 

While chatting at the famously blue red carpet earlier this month, Jason gave virginradio.co.uk a peek behind the scenes, and shared what to expect from this year’s glittering offering. 

“It's brilliant,” he teased to us. “I thought last year was fantastic. But this year, my goodness, we've gone over and above and beyond with it. Because the acts they've got, closing with Take That, with Becky Hill and Busted…Jax Jones and just the little bits in between, the incidental stuff that actually is the bit that people talk about. 

“The boys doing hip hop dancing and a couple of the winners from Britain’s Got Talent, plus some really lovely moments. The Ukrainian choir, the 100-voice choir and some really special moments. I think it's going to be a nice show."

When looking back at his own busy 12 months, Jason admitted 2023 had plenty of “highs and lows”.

He confessed: “I lost my grandmother over the summer and then I got to play the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz which she would have loved, so you know, ups and downs like everybody and that's what this night it's about really. It’s about putting the year behind you, good or bad, and looking forward to 2024.”

Remaining busy will be part of the comedian’s year in 2024. When asked what the next year currently looks like, Jason added: “Also busy. A little bit here and there. One day, a rest will not be my choice. So I think while you can work, work and then one day when nobody's ringing, you rest then.”

Who is performing at The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023?

As mentioned by Jason, those watching along at home can tune in to see the likes of Take That, Becky Hill, Busted, Jax Jones featuring Calum Scott and Ina Wroldsen, Paloma Faith. 

That’s not even the full list, with plenty of other stars set to hit the OVO stage!

When does The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023 air? 

You can ring in the New Year with The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023 on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday 31st December at 6pm.