The return of Michael McIntyre's Big Show on Saturday night delivered an instantly classic moment of television cringe, as guest Romesh Ranganathan was confronted with a blast from his romantic past.
An Unforgettable School Reunion
The ninth series of the popular BBC entertainment programme kicked off with its signature 'Remember Me' segment. This feature involves a celebrity guest trying to identify a succession of people who rise through a trapdoor, all of whom they have met before. For Ranganathan, the first surprise proved to be a particularly awkward one.
As a woman named Sonia emerged onto the stage, the on-screen caption bluntly revealed their history: 'snogged in year 11'. A clearly stunned Ranganathan could only manage a hesitant "Yes... I think I do..." in response to her question of "Hi Romesh, remember me?".
'I'm Not Happy About This!'
Host Michael McIntyre, revelling in the comedian's discomfort, pressed for more details. "What kind of relationship did you two have at this time?" he asked mischievously. Ranganathan retorted, "Well, I think you know Michael, don't you?" before addressing Sonia directly: "I've not seen you for a while, I'm not happy about this!"
As an old school photo of the pair flashed on screen, the story unfolded. Sonia recalled they were in maths class together and attended the same fifth-year leaver's party. Ranganathan filled in the embarrassing details, admitting he suggested a walk into the woods where he "made my move." He confirmed they were "sort of, in theory, going out... for a week." His final quip to Sonia, "Do you still think about me?" was met with a swift and definitive "No!"
A Heartwarming Counterpoint
The segment wasn't all about cringe, however. Later, Ranganathan was genuinely delighted to be reunited with his best friend from primary school, Dylan. His reaction was one of pure joy, exclaiming, "Oh, my God! Mate, oh, my God! We used to hang around all the time, it's so good to see you!" The moment provided a warm contrast to the earlier hilarity.
Michael McIntyre's Big Show continues with more surprise reunions and big-name guests on Saturday nights on BBC One.
