In the world of prime-time television, few shows have captured the imagination of audiences quite like Fake or Fortune?, the BBC’s riveting art investigation series hosted by the inimitable Fiona Bruce and art expert Philip Mould. After a triumphant run of twelve seasons, the beloved program has made a spectacular comeback for its thirteenth outing, promising viewers a whirlwind of unexpected plot twists, emotional revelations, and jaw-dropping discoveries that uncover hidden treasures of the art world. Premiering on July 21, 2025, on BBC One, this latest series has already cemented its place as must-watch television, blending detective work, historical intrigue, and the thrill of unearthing priceless masterpieces.

For those unfamiliar with Fake or Fortune?, the show is a masterclass in storytelling, combining meticulous research, cutting-edge forensic science, and the high-stakes drama of authenticating artworks whose origins are shrouded in mystery. Each episode follows Fiona Bruce, a seasoned journalist and broadcaster best known for her work on Antiques Roadshow and Question Time, alongside Philip Mould, a respected art dealer and historian, as they dive into the murky waters of art authentication. Their mission? To determine whether a painting or artifact is a genuine masterpiece by a renowned artist or a cleverly crafted fake, with life-changing consequences for the owners and the art world at large.

This season, which kicked off with a bang, introduces a fresh twist: the show revisits artworks from previous episodes to explore their fates since their initial investigations, while also tackling new mysteries that push the boundaries of art history. From paintings linked to titans like Winston Churchill and Pierre-Auguste Renoir to lesser-known but equally captivating artists like Frances Hodgkins, the series delves into stories that are as much about human emotion as they are about artistic value. The opening episode set the tone with a gripping tale of a painting purchased for a mere £140 at a Sussex antiques fair, only to reveal a tantalizing clue suggesting it was created by none other than Winston Churchill himself.

The discovery of the Churchill painting is a perfect example of why Fake or Fortune? resonates so deeply with audiences. The owner, a carer named Barry, bought the piece on a whim, unaware of its potential significance. When he peeled back the backing paper, he found an inscription linking the work to Churchill, painted in June 1916 at Herstmonceux Castle. Bruce and Mould embarked on a thrilling investigation, employing advanced forensic techniques and historical research to verify the painting’s authenticity. The result? A valuation that could reach £600,000, transforming Barry’s life and proving once again that treasures can hide in the most unexpected places.

What sets this season apart is its ability to balance high drama with human stories. Fiona Bruce, with her trademark poise and curiosity, brings warmth and relatability to the investigations. “As always, our investigations in this series have been full of twists and the most unexpected turns,” she said in a recent interview. “With some of the biggest names in the art world, the outcomes have been potentially life-changing for the owners.” Her partnership with Mould is a study in contrasts—her journalistic rigor complements his deep knowledge of art history, creating a dynamic that keeps viewers hooked. Together, they navigate the complexities of the art world, from shadowy forgers to long-lost masterpieces, with an infectious passion that makes every episode feel like a detective novel come to life.

One of the season’s most memorable moments came when a painting bought for just £35 as part of an auction “trolley dash” was revealed to be worth £50,000. The owner, a retiree who had stored the piece in a cupboard, was left speechless as Bruce and Mould uncovered its true value. These stories of ordinary people stumbling upon extraordinary finds are the heart of Fake or Fortune?, reminding us that history is not just the domain of museums and galleries but can be found in attics, flea markets, and forgotten corners of everyday life.

The show’s success also lies in its ability to evolve. This season, advancements in forensic science and information retrieval have allowed the team to dig deeper than ever before. Techniques like infrared imaging, pigment analysis, and digital archives have opened new doors in authentication, revealing details invisible to the naked eye. Philip Mould, who co-created the series, spoke of the excitement these innovations bring: “Each series of Fake or Fortune? continues to surprise me with the unique challenges and complexities involved in authenticating art. Breakthroughs in technology have dramatically broadened the scope of our research, making the procedure more thorough—and more captivating—than ever before.”

Beyond the thrill of discovery, the series explores broader themes about the art world itself. It raises questions about value, authenticity, and the stories we attach to objects. A painting might be dismissed as worthless, only to be revealed as a cultural treasure—or vice versa. The stakes are high, not just financially but emotionally, as owners pin their hopes on the possibility that their heirloom or bargain find is a genuine masterpiece. The show doesn’t shy away from the darker side of the art world either, hinting at the presence of forgers and the murky politics that can influence valuations and attributions.

For Fiona Bruce, Fake or Fortune? is more than just a TV show—it’s a journey into the past. Her ability to connect with contributors, from nervous owners to seasoned collectors, adds a layer of humanity to the series. Whether she’s marveling at a newly discovered Renoir or consoling an owner whose painting turns out to be a fake, Bruce’s empathy shines through. Her long career at the BBC, spanning Antiques Roadshow, Question Time, and news broadcasting, has made her a household name, but it’s her genuine passion for uncovering hidden stories that makes her the perfect host for this series.

As the six-episode season unfolds, viewers can expect more surprises, from forgotten masterpieces to shocking revelations about well-known works. The show’s ability to blend education with entertainment has made it a staple of BBC One’s prime-time lineup, and its return has been met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. For those who love a good mystery, a touch of history, and the thrill of discovery, Fake or Fortune? delivers in spades.

So, tune in to BBC One or catch up on BBC iPlayer to join Fiona Bruce and Philip Mould on this exhilarating ride through the art world. With every episode promising twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Fake or Fortune? proves that the greatest treasures are often the ones you least expect.