August is fast approaching which means it’s time to think about what to see at the Edinbugh Festival Fringe.
The physical programme will launch on June 4, but there are already almost 3,500 shows available to book - meaning it’s already an intimidating task to work out what tickets to bag.
For fans of the hugely popular television series Taskmaster it’s tempting to see at least a couple of familiar faces from the show.
Read more: Edinburgh Fringe 2026 Hot Tickets: Here are all 18 Edinburgh Comedy Award winners returning this year - including Frank Skinner and Rose Matafeo
Presented by Greg Davies and Alex Horne (who also created the programme, originally as a show for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe), the first series of Taskmaster was broadcast in 2014 on comedy channel Dave, before expanding its audience after being poached by Channel 4 in 2020.
In total there have been 20 series (with the 21st currently underway), along with a number of special one-off episodes.
That means there are plenty of former contestants, 13 of whom are appearing in Edinburgh this year.
Here’s who to book on the Fringe website.
Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
1. Frank Skinner
One of the most recognisable faces in British comedy, Frank Skinner was a contestant on the first ever series of Taskmaster in 2015. He's bringing a work in progress show to Assembly George Square from August 5-16, giving you the chance to see him in action for just £12.50. | Getty Images
2. Rose Matafeo
Rose Matafeo came second in series 9 of Taskmaster in 2019 then later became the host of Junior Taskmaster. She'll be performing a morning work in progress show at the Monkey Barrel from August 17-30. | Getty Images
3. Phil Ellis
Phil Ellis became a real fan favourite in series 20 of Taskmaster when he finished in joint second place having tied for first place in the series with Ania Magliano and Maisie Adam. He's bringing new solo show 'Bathmat' to the Monkey Barrel from August 3-30. "Jam-packed with laugh-out-loud profound silliness, superbly crafted gags and constant surprises, Phil is bringing his Bath Mat to a city near you." | Getty Images
4. John Kearns
Comedy genius John Kearns is the only person to have won both the Best Newcomer Award and the Main Prize at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards - in 2013 and 2014 respectively. He was a contestant on Series 14 of Taskmaster, finishing joint-fourth with 144 points. He'll presumably be back in his trademark false teeth and wig for his work in progress at the Monkey Barrel from August 8-13. | Contributed