Steph McGovern is returning to the BBC, six years after her final appearance on BBC Breakfast and three years after her Channel 4 show was axed. The presenter, 44, will host 'The Big Deal', a new competition described as the 'Apprentice for the art world'.
What is 'The Big Deal'?
In the series, seven pairs of trainee art dealers from across the UK compete for a piece of artwork worth £50,000. Each week, they must test their money-making skills, bargaining abilities, and inventiveness to progress in the competition.
Steph will be joined by expert Cordelia de Freitas, who will assess the contestants' performances. Each week, a guest expert will also appear, including Matt Carey-Williams, Peter Staunton, Margo McDaid, Ani Petrov, Wilhelm Finger, and Melita Skamnaki.
Steph's personal connection
Discussing the series, Steph shared her excitement, revealing that her father was an artist and that she grew up in a 'home full of curiosities', with unique paintings and lifelike sculptures. She said she "jumped at the chance" to present the show and that her dad was the "first person" she told.
Despite her background, Steph admitted she learned a lot during filming. She said: "As a business owner and financial journalist I know a bit more than most about the money-making side of things. But in terms of the art world, I’m the guide for the audience, rather than the expert, so I learn along the way like our dealers do. I’ve learned loads from Cordelia [de Freitas] and guest mentor, Matt [Carey Williams]."
Who is taking part?
The contestants include mother and daughter Rebecca and Daisy, father and daughter duo Phil and Ellie, friends Deborah and Rebeckah, best friends Gavin and Liam, London-based friends Darren and Charles, siblings Ollie and Bella from Bath, and Welsh friends Claire and Aaron.
'The Big Deal With Steph McGovern' airs on BBC Two and iPlayer from August 13 at 8pm, and on BBC Northern Ireland from August 12.
