Jeremy Clarkson has directly addressed viewer feedback following the debut of his new high-speed ITV game show, Millionaire Hot Seat. Fans of the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire spin-off voiced a specific grievance after the first episode aired this week.
What Sparked the Viewer Complaints?
The new format, which launched on Tuesday 13 January, features six contestants racing against a 15-second clock for each question, with the coveted £1 million jackpot only available to the player in the 'Hot Seat' at the game's conclusion. However, some viewers found the pace hampered by contestant chatter.
One fan took to social media to implore: "Can someone please explain to the Contestants that they need to stop nattering and answer the questions as quickly as possible, so frustrating!" In a swift response, Clarkson assured them, "I do. Before the show every time," as reported by the Express.
The Rules of the Rapid-Fire Game
Millionaire Hot Seat offers a frantic twist on the classic quiz. Contestants face increasingly difficult questions, but correct answers allow them to stay in the game. An incorrect answer leads to instant elimination.
The jackpot total decreases with wrong answers, though each player has one 'pass' to temporarily leave the hot seat and return later. Prior to the premiere, Clarkson had expressed his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), describing the show as "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. But faster" and comparing it to "a very expensive game of musical chairs."
Audience Reaction and Clarkson's Initial Hesitation
Following Clarkson's online interaction, other viewers offered suggestions. One proposed letting a contestant's timer run out to emphasise the 15-second limit, while another praised the original show's format, noting the spin-off highlighted its brilliance.
Some audience members expressed a preference for the traditional pressure on a single contestant, rather than the shared dynamic of the new version. Despite the show's successful launch, Clarkson had previously admitted reservations about taking on the role, citing his already busy schedule of nine jobs, but was convinced after watching the Australian version of the format.
Millionaire Hot Seat continues to air on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm.
