Star Power Surprise: New Names Added to Hay Festival 2026 Line-Up
There’s always something exciting around the corner at Hay Festival—but this year, organisers have pulled off a delightful surprise.
A fresh trio of events has just been added to the already packed 2026 programme, bringing together big names from television, literature and journalism for a series of unmissable conversations when the festival returns to Hay-on-Wye from 21–31 May.
From Austen to adaptation
Fans of period drama are in for a treat as stars of the BBC’s The Other Bennet Sister take to the stage. Ella Bruccoleri and Lucy Briers will be joined by writer Sarah Quintrell and producer Jane Tranter to discuss their fresh take on Pride and Prejudice.
Set for Tuesday 26 May, the event promises a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how a beloved literary classic has been reimagined for modern audiences—shining a spotlight on often-overlooked characters and new perspectives.
A peek at the bookshelf
Meanwhile, journalist and author Caitlin Moran brings her trademark wit and warmth to a My Life in Books session on Monday 25 May. In conversation with Laurence Mozafari, Moran will share the books that have shaped her life, offering audiences a personal and entertaining literary journey.
The event forms part of a new strand for 2026, where well-known figures open up about their reading habits—perfect for anyone looking to discover their next great read.
Fiction that bends reality
Rounding off the trio, award-winning novelist Ali Smith will discuss her latest work, Glyph, on Saturday 30 May. Known for her inventive and genre-defying storytelling, Smith’s new novel explores the blurred lines between imagination and reality, weaving together childhood ghosts and the echoes of real-world conflict.
In conversation with artist and filmmaker Sarah Wood, this event is set to be a highlight for lovers of contemporary fiction.
A festival bursting with ideas
These new additions only add to what is already a remarkable line-up. The 2026 festival features an impressive mix of voices, including Emma Thompson, Malala Yousafzai, Ian McEwan, Dawn French, Bear Grylls and Mary Berry, among many others.
Now in its 39th spring edition, the festival will host over 500 events across 11 days, bringing together more than 700 writers, performers, policymakers and creatives from around the world.
From thought-provoking debates and book launches to comedy, music and family-friendly activities, there’s something for every kind of festival-goer.
More than just books
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, the festival site at Dairy Meadows offers plenty to explore beyond the stages. Visitors can browse the bookshop, relax in the Wild Garden, enjoy pop-up performances, or simply soak up the atmosphere between events.
With new strands like My Life in Books, Book to Screen, and Debut Discoveries, Hay Festival 2026 continues to evolve—celebrating storytelling in all its forms, from page to stage to screen.
How to be part of it
Tickets for these newly announced events are available now to festival members, with general sale opening Friday 24 April at noon.
👉 Explore the full programme and book tickets: https://www.hayfestival.org/hay-on-wye
Whether you’re drawn by the star names, the literary discussions, or simply the unique atmosphere, Hay Festival remains one of the UK’s most cherished cultural gatherings—and with these surprise additions, 2026 is shaping up to be one of its most exciting editions yet.
