Channel 4 is set to air a new social experiment, Handcuffed: Last Pair Standing, in which nine pairs of strangers are handcuffed together around the clock, competing for a £100,000 prize. The catch: they can only uncuff if they choose to leave the competition.
Executive producer Tom Clarke explained that the handcuffs remain on at all times, including during eating, sleeping, and showering. 'It was really important for us, when we started this, that it was a genuine experiment,' he said. 'People had to be handcuffed the whole time.'
Contestants will visit each other's homes and navigate daily life while chained together. Keys are available at every location if they decide to quit, but doing so eliminates both partners. Clarke noted that welfare teams and psychologists were on call 24/7 to ensure duty of care.
The first episode features Sir Benjamin Slade, the 7th Baronet of Maunsel, and George, a former prison officer. Their clash includes a dispute over a painting by Adolf Hitler in Sir Benjamin's home. Clarke emphasised the goal was not just conflict but 'lasting friendships' and 'something positive and uplifting'.
Handcuffed: Last Pair Standing airs on Monday 2 March at 9pm on Channel 4.
