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Outsiders: David Mitchell’s desperate bid to outdo the genius of Taskmaster

From wielding axes to rescuing parachutists, Mitchell’s new show gives comics wacky missions to complete. It’s great fun – but it would be far better if a certain other series didn’t exist

When Taskmaster defected to Channel 4 last year, it blew a gigantic hole into the side of Dave. Not only was it the channel’s highest-rated (and arguably signature) show, but its ingenious format had won awards, inspired international remakes and boosted the profile of dozens of comedians.

But now the hole has to be filled. Enter Outsiders, Dave’s new comedy entertainment format, which feels a little like the result of a long consultation about how close a television programme can legally be to Taskmaster without actually being Taskmaster.

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