Jedward fail the straight-face challenge, but here’s why rollercoasters could actually make you happier
If there’s one thing Jedward are known for, it’s being impossible to ignore and it turns out rollercoasters are no different.
The pop duo have attempted to keep a straight face while taking on two of the UK’s biggest thrill rides as part of a new challenge for National Rollercoaster Day.
Unsurprisingly, they failed spectacularly.
The twins took on Hyperia at Thorpe Park, reaching speeds of up to 81mph, before heading north to Alton Towers Resort to tackle The Smiler, the world’s first 14-loop rollercoaster. And while their famous quiffs apparently survived the experience, their poker faces didn't.
“We had such a jepic day taking on two of the world’s toughest rollercoasters,” Jedward said, admitting both rides pushed their hairspray and their ability to keep a straight face – to its limits.
But perhaps Jedward shouldn’t feel too bad about cracking.
New research commissioned by Merlin Entertainments suggests that rollercoasters could be doing much more than simply giving us a fright. Almost seven in ten Brits (69%) say riding a rollercoaster makes them happier, while 62% say screaming together on a coaster makes them feel closer to the friends and family riding alongside them.
And if you’ve ever wondered why you find yourself laughing hysterically after being hurled upside down at terrifying speeds, there could be something to it.
Nearly half of Brits (47%) say they laugh more on rollercoasters than they do while watching comedy films, while 57% experience a rush of excitement the moment they step off.It seems the shared experience could be part of the appeal, too. Almost six in ten people (59%) say rollercoasters have created some of their most lasting memories.
So while the idea of voluntarily paying money to be strapped into a metal carriage and flung around at 81mph might sound questionable, there may be a surprisingly wholesome reason why we keep coming back for more.
And if you fancy putting your own poker face to the test, Merlin is inviting thrill-seekers to take part in its Straight Face Challenge between August 16 and 23.
The challenge is running at Thorpe Park, Alton Towers Resort, Chessington World of Adventures and LEGOLAND Windsor Resort to celebrate the 40th anniversary of National Rollercoaster Day.
To enter, riders need to purchase an official on-ride photograph and share it on social media using #StraightFaceChallenge. One lucky winner will receive a Platinum Merlin Annual Pass, giving them a year of rides across Merlin attractions.
How to take part
The Straight Face Challenge runs from 16 to 23 August 2026 at Thorpe Park, Alton Towers Resort, Chessington World of Adventures and LEGOLAND Windsor Resort.
To enter, simply:
Ride a rollercoaster at one of the participating Merlin attractions.
Purchase your official on-ride photograph.
Share the photo on social media using #StraightFaceChallenge.
Keep your fingers crossed that your attempt is better than Jedward’s.
The prize is a Platinum Merlin Annual Pass worth £299, giving the winner entry to Merlin attractions with no exclusion dates, four free Bring a Friend tickets each year and one free one-shot Fastrack per visit, as well as other benefits.
There’s also a saving to be made this summer, with day tickets to all four participating theme parks starting from £34.13. Under the Government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme, reduced VAT rates on attraction admission tickets are available until 1 September 2026.
So whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or someone who normally grips the safety bar and regrets their life choices halfway up the first climb, this could be the perfect excuse to test your poker face.
Just remember: if Jedward couldn’t manage it, the odds of keeping a completely straight face might not be in your favour.
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