ITV confirms Ninja Warrior UK will be back for a fifth series

Hit obstacle course gameshow Ninja Warrior UK will return for a fifth series, ITV has confirmed.

Based on the Japanese format Sasuke, Ninja Warrior sees brave hopefuls face a series of gruelling obstacles, including the ‘Quintuple Steps’ and ‘Warped Wall’.

Only the toughest contenders last to the grand final, when they must conquer Mount Midoriyama to achieve ultimate glory.

Currently in its fourth series, Ninja Warrior UK has been airing as part of ITV’s ‘Super Saturday’ line-up.

The good news is there’s more to come, as the broadcaster has announced that the action-packed show will be back for a fifth run in 2019.

Filming will take place later this year, with presenters Ben Shephard, Chris Kamara and Rochelle Humes all set to return.

Executive producer Michael Kelpie said: “TV brings families together to share in the enjoyment of watching big entertainment shows.

“We’re very proud that Ninja Warrior UK will continue to be part of Saturday night entertainment with all the thrills, spills, laughs and gaffs that have made it the UK’s most popular physical game show.”

Asif Zubairy, ITV commissioning editor for entertainment, added: “The bravest competitors in the UK meet the toughest course on television once again. I can’t wait to see who wins.”

Bosses are now looking for new contestants to tackle the course, which is usually based in Manchester Central.

Anyone who fancies themselves as a Ninja Warrior can find out how to get involved on the ITV website. Applications are due to close on Friday 13th July.

In the meantime, the current series concludes on Saturday 9th June at 6.30pm on ITV.

Ninja Warrior has become a smash hit around the world, with the American version about to enter its tenth season.

Meanwhile, the Australian version – co-hosted by Freddie Flintoff – has become one of the Nine Network’s highest-rating shows.