ITV2s Tricked Renewed Second Season

ITV2 has renewed its hidden-camera magic and prank series Tricked for a second season, following a strong debut run that helped cement the show as one of the channel’s standout entertainment formats.

Fronted by magician and illusionist Ben Hanlin, Tricked blends street magic with candid camera-style pranks, placing unsuspecting members of the public into elaborately constructed scenarios designed to surprise, confuse and entertain. The format proved to be a natural fit for ITV2’s young, digitally engaged audience, combining spectacle with shareable reactions.

The first season of Tricked delivered solid ratings for ITV2 and performed particularly well on catch-up and social platforms, where clips of Hanlin’s illusions gained significant traction. ITV executives have pointed to the show’s strong multiplatform performance as a key factor behind the renewal, highlighting its appeal beyond traditional linear viewing.

Tricked’s success also reflects ITV2’s broader strategy of investing in personality-led entertainment that feels spontaneous, contemporary and accessible. By focusing on real reactions rather than studio-based performance, the series differentiates itself from traditional magic shows and aligns more closely with online prank culture.

Ben Hanlin’s role is central to the show’s appeal. Unlike more confrontational prank formats, Tricked emphasises warmth and good-natured surprise, with Hanlin often revealing the illusion moments after the trick is complete. This approach has helped the series avoid accusations of cruelty while maintaining genuine shock value.

Season two is expected to expand on the scale and ambition of the pranks, with more elaborate setups and higher production values. ITV2 has confirmed that the new episodes will feature a wider range of scenarios, including public spaces, workplaces and social settings designed to heighten unpredictability.

The renewal also reflects confidence in Hanlin as an on-screen talent. Since winning ITV’s Dancing on Ice Christmas Special and building a strong social media following, he has emerged as a recognisable face for younger viewers. Tricked positions him as both performer and relatable host, bridging the gap between traditional television and online entertainment.

From a production standpoint, Tricked is relatively cost-effective compared to scripted drama, making it an attractive option for ITV2’s schedule. The format allows flexibility in episode length and content, while also generating digital-first material that can be repurposed across ITV’s platforms.

ITV2 has increasingly leaned into formats that encourage repeat viewing and social sharing, particularly as younger audiences move away from linear schedules. Tricked fits neatly within this strategy, offering short-form moments that translate easily to mobile viewing.

The second season will continue to be produced with a focus on authenticity, capturing genuine reactions rather than relying on planted participants. ITV has stressed that maintaining trust with viewers is essential to the show’s long-term success.

Tricked’s renewal also highlights the enduring popularity of magic on British television, particularly when presented in a contemporary format. While traditional stage magic shows have declined, street magic and prank-based illusions have found new life through digital culture.

ITV2 has confirmed that the new season will air later this year, with episodes also available on ITV Hub to support catch-up and binge viewing.

With its second season confirmed, Tricked is set to build on its early success, reinforcing ITV2’s reputation for youthful, shareable entertainment and establishing Ben Hanlin as a long-term face of the channel’s unscripted output.