BBC viewers have expressed significant frustration with the latest episode of Celebrity Mastermind, taking to social media to criticise the show's choice of celebrity contestants. The episode, which aired on Friday, January 2, 2026, featured a line-up that many argued were not well-known enough to justify the 'celebrity' title.
Viewers Unimpressed with 'Unknown' Contestants
Hosted by Clive Myrie, the episode featured actor Colson Smith from Coronation Street, radio presenter Nadia Jae, comedian Grace Campbell, and Blue Peter presenter Joel M. The contestants faced questions on specialist subjects including Leeds United under Marcelo Bielsa, Marvel's Avengers films, the late actor Robin Williams, and illusionist Derren Brown.
However, minutes into the broadcast, a wave of similar complaints emerged online. A common theme was that viewers only recognised Colson Smith, known for playing PC Craig Tinker in the ITV soap. One viewer posted on social media questioning: "Apart from PC Tinks from #Corrie, who are these other people masquerading as 'celebrities'?"
Another critic suggested the show's premise of a "shot at fame" was an admission the participants were not already famous. A third added scathingly: "These 'celebrities' just get further and further away from the actual label 'celebrity' every night. What a joke." Further comments included claims that the BBC had "finally run out of celebrities" and was using the term "quite loosely."
A Tight Contest Amidst the Controversy
Despite the controversy surrounding their fame, the four contestants engaged in a closely fought quiz. Nadia Jae struggled, finishing in fourth place with just eight points across both rounds. Joel M secured third place with 13 points.
The competition for the winner's spot was narrow. Coronation Street's Colson Smith achieved a strong score of 14 points, landing him in second place. The episode was ultimately won by comedian Grace Campbell, who triumphed with a score of 15 points, as reported by the Express.
A Pattern of Criticism for the Celebrity Edition
This is not the first time the celebrity version of the long-running quiz show has faced viewer ire. Recent episodes have also been accused of featuring "dumbed-down questions" compared to the standard series.
One disgruntled fan stated bluntly: "Celebrity Mastermind is a complete waste of licence money." The show, a spin-off which first aired in 2002, has historically attracted a roster of high-profile names, including national treasures like Stephen Fry and the late Paul O'Grady, a fact which has led some to compare past and present line-ups unfavourably.
The episode remains available for viewers to stream on BBC iPlayer.
