The fairy-tale chateau that captured millions of hearts is entering its most transformative chapter yet. What’s been hidden for so long is finally out! Dick and Angel Strawbridge have just dropped a bombshell announcement about their future at the Chateau de la Motte-Husson, sending shockwaves through their devoted fanbase. After years of speculation, quiet transitions, and a three-year hiatus from the cameras that followed the controversial end of their flagship Channel 4 series, the couple has revealed they’re officially back in production for Escape to the Chateau Series 10. This isn’t just a comeback—it’s a bold new era for the family, the 45-room 19th-century masterpiece they transformed from ruin to dream home, and the millions who have lived vicariously through their adventures in rural France.

The announcement landed like a thunderclap in October 2025, but with the current date of February 10, 2026, fans are now on the edge of their seats as production ramps up and teases emerge. In a heartfelt Instagram post accompanied by a short trailer, Dick and Angel declared: “We are delighted to announce that we are officially back in production for Escape to the Chateau, Series 10! It’s been wonderful welcoming back our Escape filming family—the unsung heroes behind the cameras.” The words carried the weight of reflection: “Since we first fell in love with the Chateau in 2014, it has taken us on the journey of a lifetime. In 2022, we made the important decision to take a break from filming and concluded Series 9 with the most incredible and magical celebration we could have ever imagined. Now, as a family, we’ve stepped into a new era.”

That “new era” is the heart of the bombshell. With children Arthur and Dorothy now thriving in college—Arthur turning 13 in recent emotional family posts, Dorothy pursuing her own passions—the chateau is no longer just a family renovation project or a wedding venue empire. It’s evolving into a symbol of growth, change, and perhaps even legacy-building. The couple hinted at “more change and growth than the Chateau has ever seen,” promising daring designs, fresh ideas, and even the tantalizing possibility of a Christmas Special. Fans interpret this as a shift from the relentless DIY marathons of earlier seasons to something more reflective: capturing life as empty-nesters, balancing business ventures, and embracing the next phase of their extraordinary story.

The road to this revelation hasn’t been smooth. Escape to the Chateau burst onto screens in 2016, chronicling Dick—a former army engineer with boundless enthusiasm—and Angel—a creative force with an eye for vintage elegance—as they poured their savings and souls into restoring the moat-surrounded château in Pays de la Loire. Viewers fell in love with the couple’s chemistry, the kids’ adorable antics, and the sheer audacity of turning a derelict property into a thriving events space. Over nine series, they renovated grand salons, installed eco-friendly systems, hosted fairy-tale weddings, and navigated the realities of running a hospitality business in a foreign country. The show became a phenomenon, inspiring countless viewers to chase their own dreams while offering escapism through stunning French countryside vistas.

But in 2022, after Series 9’s emotional farewell—a spectacular celebration that felt like a perfect bow—the series ended amid controversy. Reports surfaced of tensions during filming, including allegations of difficult behavior toward crew, leading Channel 4 to confirm they would not work with the Strawbridges on future productions following a review. Dick and Angel have consistently denied bullying claims, maintaining professionalism and gratitude toward their team. The split was painful for fans, who mourned the loss of weekly chateau updates. Yet the family never truly disappeared. They pivoted to their own platforms: thechateau.tv for exclusive content, their podcast Chateau Studio (which they thrillingly resumed recording in early 2026 after a break), live tours, books, and merchandise. Dick and Angel embarked on UK tours, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and inspiring audiences with tales of resilience and creativity.

The decision to return to mainstream television marks a triumphant reclamation. Production for Series 10 began quietly, with the couple welcoming back familiar crew members in a reunion that felt like coming home. Trailers show glimpses of the chateau in its current glory—lush gardens bursting with Angel’s signature floral touches, Dick tinkering in workshops, and the family spaces now adapted for a quieter rhythm. Arthur and Dorothy, once tiny helpers in hard hats, appear as young adults contributing ideas and reflecting on how the chateau shaped them. The energy is fresh yet familiar: Dick’s infectious “make do and mend” spirit, Angel’s meticulous design vision, and the unmistakable warmth that made the show a comfort-watch staple.

What’s next for the family? The announcement teases evolution rather than repetition. With the kids away at college, episodes promise to explore empty-nest dynamics—how Dick and Angel redefine their partnership without the constant presence of little feet pattering through hallways. Business-wise, the chateau remains a multi-faceted enterprise: luxury weddings, exclusive stays via their website, pop-up events, and creative workshops. Rumors swirl about expanded sustainability initiatives—Dick has spoken passionately about inspiring young people in traditional trades and eco-friendly living, suggesting green upgrades or community projects could feature prominently. A Christmas Special would be the cherry on top, delivering the festive magic fans crave: twinkling lights in the grand salon, homemade feasts, and perhaps a surprise family gathering.

Fans are buzzing with excitement and a touch of nerves. Social media overflows with reactions: “This is the comeback we prayed for!” one Instagram comment reads under their announcement reel. Others express relief after the hiatus: “The chateau without Dick and Angel on TV just wasn’t the same.” There’s curiosity about how the show will address the past—will they reference the break, the controversy, or focus purely forward? The Strawbridges have always prioritized privacy for their children, so expect sensitive handling of Arthur and Dorothy’s growing independence.

This new chapter also reflects broader themes that have endeared the couple to audiences worldwide. Their story is one of bold risks—leaving stable careers in the UK to buy a crumbling French château on a whim, pouring everything into a dream despite skepticism. It’s about partnership: Dick’s engineering precision complementing Angel’s artistic flair, their banter turning challenges into triumphs. It’s family resilience—raising two children amid chaos while building a legacy. And it’s inspiration: proving that with determination, creativity, and a bit of fairy dust, ordinary people can create extraordinary lives.

As February 2026 unfolds, anticipation builds for Series 10’s air date (yet to be confirmed, but production updates suggest later this year). Will we see more weddings with Angel’s iconic upcycled décor? Dick leading ambitious engineering feats? Family milestones as the kids return home? The bombshell isn’t just about returning to screens—it’s about proving the chateau’s magic endures, adapting to life’s changes while staying true to its heart.

For Dick and Angel, the future at the Chateau isn’t about standing still. It’s about embracing evolution, inviting cameras back when the timing feels right for their family, and continuing to share the journey that started with a leap of faith over a decade ago. Fans aren’t just watching a renovation show anymore—they’re witnessing a life unfolding, one magical moment at a time.

The chateau doors are opening once more. What’s next promises to be the most heartfelt, inspiring chapter yet. Get ready—the Strawbridges are back, and the fairy tale continues.