Former Catchphrase Champion Lifts Lid on Host Stephen Mulhern's Character
A former winner of the iconic ITV gameshow Catchphrase has provided an exclusive glimpse into what presenter Stephen Mulhern is genuinely like off-camera. The contestant, Adei from Leeds, secured the programme's £50,000 top prize a decade ago, marking the first time the jackpot was ever won.
The Moment of Victory and Host's Supportive Nature
Adei achieved her life-changing win by correctly solving all the catchphrases in the final pyramid with merely one second remaining. Reflecting on her experience, she described Mulhern as "lovely" and remarkably supportive. "Before filming started, he came over, wished us luck and told us to enjoy it," she recalled in an interview with Smooth Spins Casino, the gaming brand of Smooth Radio.
Behind the Scenes: Filming and Application Process
The entire episode was filmed in just one hour from start to finish, revealing the fast-paced nature of television production. Adei, a self-proclaimed superfan of the show, explained her decision to apply: "I was such a huge fan. I had the game on my PC, the app on my phone, and I watched it every time it was on. I knew I had a knack for guessing catchphrases, so I thought, why not?"
The audition process was rigorous:
- It began with an application form requiring a photo showcasing personality—Adei submitted one of her holding a "Little Miss Chatterbox" Mr Men book.
- She then received a call inviting her to a hotel conference room in Manchester for initial screening.
- After solving pictographs in the waiting room, she was selected and traveled to Maidstone in Kent for filming.
The Odds of Winning and Emotional Aftermath
A producer backstage revealed staggering statistics: approximately 26,000 people apply annually, with only around 24 contestants chosen. "He said even getting chosen should feel like a win," Adei remembered. "Then he added, 'We have never had a jackpot winner, so today could be the day.' And it was."
Describing her win as "insane," Adei treated her appearance as an audition, aiming to leave with no regrets. "When I got to the final Catchphrase and won the whole thing, including the holiday, it did not feel real. It felt like swallowing a firework on live TV," she said.
Following her victory, she was taken to the green room for an interview, and producers called her mother since no family could attend. "She did not believe it at first. I was shaking," Adei recounted, highlighting the emotional intensity of the moment.
Catchphrase, which has been airing since 1986, continues to captivate audiences under Stephen Mulhern's hosting, with Adei's story underscoring the show's lasting appeal and the genuine warmth of its presenter.
