What’s Behind the Delay of TV2’s New Show?
TV2’s upcoming gameshow A szemfényvesztő – Hazudj, ha tudsz!, featuring Jáksó László as host, has faced repeated delays since its initial announcement in November 2025, according to Blikk. The show, a Hungarian adaptation of the international The Hustler format, was expected to debut in spring 2026 but remains unairing as of June 2026.
TV2’s program strategy and content production director, Fischer Gábor, explained the postponement in a statement, citing the network’s focus on aligning premieres with optimal viewership data and market conditions. “We prioritize long-term success over rushed launches,” he said, emphasizing the need to “strategically time the show for maximum impact.”
The delay reflects a broader trend in television production, where networks increasingly rely on data analytics to schedule content. For example, a 2024 report by TV Ratings Insights found that 68% of major networks now use audience metrics to determine premiere dates, up from 42% in 2019.
Why Jáksó László’s Return Matters
Jáksó László’s involvement has drawn particular attention, as he has largely stepped away from television in recent years. In 2025, he told Origo that he had shifted focus to programming and other ventures, stating, “I don’t miss the screen, but this project feels different.”
His return highlights a growing strategy among networks to revive established personalities. A 2023 study by Media Analytics Europe found that shows featuring reemerging stars saw a 22% higher initial viewership compared to new talent-led programs.
However, the delay may test audience patience. In 2022, a similar delay for Big Brother Hungary led to a 15% drop in pre-launch buzz, according to Social TV Metrics.
How the Show’s Format Could Reshape Hungarian TV
A szemfényvesztő follows the The Hustler format, where five contestants collaborate to win money while one secretly knows the answers. The winner takes the prize only if they identify the “trickster” among them. This structure, which blends strategy and suspense, has proven successful internationally, with the original format airing in 14 countries since 2018.
Analysts suggest the show could fill a niche in Hungary’s competitive gameshow landscape. “It’s a fresh take on the quiz genre,” said Ágnes Kovács, a media analyst at TV Strategy Hungary. “The interpersonal dynamics and high-stakes betting could attract younger viewers.”
However, the format’s success depends on execution. A 2021 experiment with a similar concept, Ki tudja a legtöbbet?, struggled with low engagement, partly due to a lack of clear rules. TV2’s team has not yet disclosed details about the show’s production team or technical setup.
Did You Know?
The The Hustler format originated in the Netherlands in 2011 and has since been adapted in countries like Germany, Poland, and Brazil. Its global appeal lies in its simplicity and high production value, which can cost up to €2 million per episode.
What’s Next for TV2’s Strategy?
TV2’s approach to A szemfényvesztő aligns with its 2025-2027 content roadmap, which prioritizes “high-impact, data-driven programming.” The network has also announced plans to debut two other shows in 2026, though details remain sparse.
Industry experts speculate that the delay could allow TV2 to refine the show’s structure. “Postponements are often a sign of careful planning,” said Péter Nagy, a television producer. “But they also risk losing momentum.”
Pro Tip
For viewers, the delay offers time to research the show’s format. Watching international versions of The Hustler on streaming platforms can provide insight into what to expect.
FAQ: Answers to Common Questions
Why was the show delayed?
According to TV2’s Fischer Gábor, the network is strategically timing the premiere to align with viewership patterns and market conditions. “We want to ensure the show starts at the best possible moment
