The Circle renewed for second, longer series by Channel 4

The Circle will return to Channel 4 for an extended second series, it’s been announced.

The Circle is the first reality show where players communicate via a social network. Contestants live in separate apartments in a single building and play games and chat with each other through a unique voice-activated social media platform, called The Circle. They rate each other frequently, unpopular players are ‘blocked’ and ultimately the most popular player wins a cash prize.

The second series will see The Circle become more mischievous increasing the gameplay, drama and jeopardy. Viewers will also be given greater control and increased interactivity with the game. They will be able to influence how the contestants play – leading to unexpected and surprising consequences…

Kelly Webb-Lamb, Channel 4 Deputy Director of Programmes and Head of Popular Factual commented: “It was a genuine risk to take on such an innovative new reality format, but The Circle absolutely struck a chord with young viewers who were utterly gripped by the drama and relationships that unfolded on screen – even though the players never met.

“The second series will have more of what the viewers loved – warmth, humour, more live elements and even more surprises. I’m excited to see how it will build on the success of series one.”

Tim Harcourt, creative director of production company Studio Lambert, said: “We were blown away by the love on social media for our entertaining cast and the nightly drama of the show. This year we have some thrilling twists and turns in both our casting and the gameplay.

“We will also have a weekly live show that offers our audience more chance to engage and make a big impact on the narrative.”

“We have partnered with producers of some of the world’s biggest formats,” says Richard Foster, CEO of the Motion Content Group. “We believe The Circle is one of the most innovative formats for many years and with the support of Channel 4 and Netflix has a bright future in the UK and around the world.”

In the live final last year, catfishing Alex Hobern, who took on the persona of Kate throughout the series, won a total prize of £75,000.

The series proved a big hit in the TV ratings as well as logging impressive numbers of online viewers. On All 4, The Circle was the biggest new original commission launch since 2012, with over 10 million views.

The new series returns later this year. You can register to apply for the series by visiting www.thecirclecasting.com