Seven Network has revealed its 2026 programming lineup at an industry event held at the Winx Stand, Royal Randwick. The announcement highlighted a mix of new shows, returning favorites, and major sporting events, including the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The network aims to captivate audiences with a diverse range of content, from comedy and quiz shows to renovation competitions and international sports.
Among the new titles is the quiz series Caught in the Middle, hosted by Shane Jacobson and filmed in The Netherlands. The show promises to be a thrilling quiz battle where a duo faces off against a hundred opponents. Additionally, a yet-to-be-titled comedy series from Mick Molloy and Glenn Robbins is set to bring laughter back to prime time. Meanwhile, SAS: Australia v England will pit Australian celebrities against their UK counterparts in the harsh Moroccan desert.
New Shows and Returning Favorites
The 2026 lineup also includes My Reno Rules, a renovation competition hosted by Dr. Chris Brown, which will transform the lives of everyday Australians. Dr. Brown will also star in Once in a Lifetime, a travel show featuring wildlife adventures with celebrity guests. Another notable addition is Tina Arena: Unravel Me, a documentary exploring the life and career of the iconic Australian singer.
Returning hits include Australian Idol, Farmer Wants a Wife, MKR, The Voice, and Home & Away. These shows have consistently drawn large audiences, and Seven is banking on their continued success to drive viewership in 2026.
Sports and Special Events
The Commonwealth Games will be a centerpiece of Seven’s sports programming, with coverage from Glasgow scheduled for July 23 to August 2. The games will feature approximately 3,000 athletes from up to 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, competing in a 10-sport program.
“Australians love sport, and the growth in our audiences this year shows they love sport on Seven and 7plus,” said Angus Ross, Seven Group Managing Director, Television.
In addition to the Commonwealth Games, Seven’s sports lineup includes AFL, cricket, horse racing, Supercars, and more. The network’s commitment to delivering top-tier sports content is evident in its comprehensive coverage of both local and international events.
Strategic Focus and Future Outlook
Seven West Media’s Managing Director and CEO, Jeff Howard, emphasized the network’s focus on growth and performance. “Our focus in 2026 is on growth, partnership, and performance. We’re bringing all three,” he stated. The network is doubling down on proven content strategies and leveraging its digital platform, 7plus, to reach audiences across all screens.
Meanwhile, Seven’s Director of Content Strategy, Andrew Green, highlighted the enhancements to the 7plus user experience. New features like ‘Remind Me’ alerts and a personalized preference center are designed to make streaming more intuitive and convenient for users.
While the network did not announce any new drama series, it is hopeful for the renewal of RFDS and is still considering the future of Dancing with the Stars. The absence of these shows from the current lineup indicates a strategic shift towards other genres and formats.
Conclusion
Seven’s 2026 programming slate reflects a strategic blend of innovation and tradition. By introducing new formats and capitalizing on established hits, the network aims to maintain its stronghold in the competitive television landscape. As audiences eagerly anticipate the upcoming Commonwealth Games and other exciting offerings, Seven is poised to deliver another year of compelling entertainment and sports coverage.
