Jeremy Clarkson Speaks Out on Future of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire
Former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson has openly discussed the enduring appeal and future prospects of the iconic quiz show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, which he has presented since 2018. In a candid interview, Clarkson expressed strong confidence in the programme's longevity, stating that its format is essentially perfect and requires no alteration.
'You Can't Improve on the Format'
Clarkson, who also stars in Clarkson's Farm, was questioned about whether the ITV series, now in its 28th year, can continue to thrive. He responded emphatically, "Yes. I don’t see how you can become tired of it. It’s like saying ‘I’m bored of quizzes’. Nobody will ever get bored of quizzes." He further elaborated, "You can’t improve on the format and besides, why mess with it?" This rhetorical question underscores his belief in the show's tried-and-tested structure.
He attributes the programme's sustained success to its status as the "genuinely the granddaddy" of television quizzes. "There are a number of good TV quizzes but there is no getting away from the fact this is the big daddy, it’s the GOAT, it’s the OG," Clarkson declared, using slang terms for 'Greatest of All Time' and 'Original Gangster' to emphasise its pioneering role in the genre.
Why Millionaire Remains a Viewer Favourite
Clarkson highlighted several key factors that contribute to the show's popularity with audiences at home. "I love watching it at home. ‘A’ because I have no memory so I could watch a show I recorded six months earlier and I would look at it completely fresh. And ‘B’, you can play at home," he explained. He noted that unlike many quiz shows that demand rapid responses, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire allows viewers to participate actively and discuss answers with family members.
The substantial prize money also plays a crucial role. Clarkson pointed out that even when contestants do not win the top prize, sums like £64,000 represent "a massive amount of money." He added, "The prize money is one factor, but you can also decide whether you like someone or don’t and hope they don’t win!" This element of viewer engagement and emotional investment further cements the show's appeal.
Clarkson's 'Imposter' Feeling Towards Chris Tarrant's Legacy
Despite having hosted the show for eight years, Clarkson admitted to still feeling like "an imposter" on the programme. When asked if he feels indebted to original host Chris Tarrant, who launched the show in 1998, Clarkson replied, "Completely and I still think it’s his show. I am an imposter. Even though I have been doing the show for eight years, I still think of it as Chris Tarrant’s show."
He acknowledged Tarrant's foundational contributions, stating, "There are so many things like ‘nice and quiet in the audience’ – that was all his. The language of the show was written by Chris and I am just doing it." This humility reflects Clarkson's respect for the show's origins and his role as a steward rather than an originator.
In summary, Jeremy Clarkson's insights reveal a deep-seated belief in the immutable quality of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. His defence of its format, combined with personal reflections on its legacy, suggests the quiz show will continue to captivate audiences for years to come, airing regularly on ITV without significant changes to its core structure.
