The Only Way is Essex has confirmed it will be returning to ITVBe on September 6th for its brand new 26th series.
This year marks the 10-year anniversary of the show that brought us icons including Gemma Collins and Mark Wright, and words including "vajazzle" and "jeal".
The cast members starring the upcoming series include former stars Lauren Goodger, Amy Childs and James Argent, and it will air twice a week with 18 episodes altogether.
The series was initially planned to be released in March 2020 but the pandemic forced show bosses to cancel as the cast often film in busy party or cafe scenes that would no longer be possible.
A source told The Sun : “There have been lengthy discussions with the cast, and it just wouldn’t have worked without a busy social scene and going to clubs and their shops.
“So bosses have decided to wait until later in the year when the crisis has calmed down a bit. It’s not worth the risk."
Head of Unscripted for Lime Pictures Sarah Tyekiff said: “We are so excited to get the iconic Towie back on people’s screens, twice a week, for what is going to be a huge Anniversary season.
"It’ll be back with a bang to celebrate 10 phenomenal years with our amazing cast and see the return of some very familiar faces.
Paul Mortimer, Head of Digital Channels and Acquisitions for ITV, said "After 10 years, Towie is still going strong and remains the number one show on ITVBe.
"We're thrilled to be welcoming back new and old faces for the upcoming mega-series as the show celebrates this special anniversary."
Joey Essex and Danielle Armstrong have also been spotted filming as the cast reunite for socially distanced scenes including one at a festival-themed gathering.
But the series will not be able to have its usual trip abroad during filming, due to travel restrictions caused by COVID-19.
