ITV is leaping into the gap left by Total Wipeout with a new show inspired by an extreme assault course game show from Japan.

The show, called Ninja Warrior UK, will be hosted by Ben Shephard, the Saturdays’ Rochelle Humes and ex-footballer Chris Kamara and will feature 250 contestants running, jumping and climbing their way through the challenging course.

Ben Shephard will co-host (Martin Rickett/PA)
Ben Shephard will co-host (Martin Rickett/PA)

It is based on a Japanese show called Sasuke, which has already been a hit in the US, and features what ITV describe as “the toughest obstacle course ever seen on British television”.

The broadcaster’s commissioning editor for entertainment, Asif Zubairy, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing Ninja Warrior to the UK. This exciting new format will showcase some inspirational achievements as well as hilarious mishaps on what promises to be the toughest course on TV.”

Along with Chris Kamara (David Davies/PA)
Along with Chris Kamara (David Davies/PA)

The BBC’s Total Wipeout, which relied on a similar blend of athletic ability and slapstick comedy, was dropped in 2012 after six series.