Mark Labbett has criticised Bradley Walsh's new Channel 4 programme Million Pound Shot, saying he "lost interest" in the show after its secret twist was revealed. The Beast shared his verdict on social media during Sunday's episode, which was later confirmed to be a staged performance rather than a genuine quiz.
The programme, described by the broadcaster as "a brand-new quiz where contestants can win a million," aired on Sunday evening. Channel 4 had hinted at a "huge secret twist" in a night of "drama, tension and life-changing outcomes." The first half was presented as an ordinary gameshow, with three contestants using their bank cards in a chip and pin machine when they wanted to play a question.
Secret twist revealed
Host Bradley Walsh told the audience the players were gambling their real money, and the programme descended into chaos when members of the studio audience started to speak out while believing one of the fake contestants, Reece, was left thousands of pounds out of pocket. He later informed viewers the show had been a "performance" and the contestants were actors, saying: "Everything you've seen tonight draws on the techniques used by the gambling industry."
During the programme, it was revealed Reece was inspired by the real-life story of Patrick, a former teacher who became addicted to gambling while at university. While sharing the story of his 13-year addiction, Patrick explained he had accumulated around £250,000 in debt but said his final bet happened in 2018.
Mark Labbett's reaction
Like many viewers, Mark Labbett took to social media to share his verdict on the new show. He wrote on X: "Interesting show but wished they had actually made a good new quiz show." Before the big reveal, he predicted: "Having said all that, am wondering if it is going to pivot to an 'evils of gambling' theme." He later added: "Suddenly lost interest :(." and "Also wondered how audience felt about spending hours on a fake show."
Mark has known TV presenter Bradley Walsh for many years, working on ITV quiz show The Chase for over a decade. While The Beast wasn't too keen on the programme, Bradley explained the topics discussed were vital.
Bradley Walsh's response
Sharing a statement on Instagram, he said: "Thank you to everyone who tuned in to watch Million Pound Shot tonight. I know it was a bit of a shock at first, but this is a vital subject and that's exactly why I wanted to do it." A huge thanks to the incredible experts and gambling harm charities who helped shape the show, and to Patrick and Charlotte for so bravely sharing their stories.
"I hope everyone who watched is feeling okay, and has come away knowing a bit more about the techniques of the gambling industry. If you've been affected by anything in the programme, support is out there such as the wonderful Gambling Harm UK and Gambling with Lives can help."
Taking to the comments on Instagram, one fan said: "Well done a very powerful show." A second said: "We were crying as he realised he'd won nothing, literally saying this shouldn't be allowed. And then the next 30 minutes of TV had us in more tears. What a show, absolutely fantastic."
Gambling industry criticism
Will Prochaska, director of the Coalition to End Gambling Ads, who took part in the show, said: "Even though I knew what was going on, it was distressing to watch. The show depicts the abusive tactics used by gambling companies to get people hooked, and the damage they cause to people and their families. Million Pound Shot must be a spur for the Government to act. Andy Burnham has signalled his intention to do something about the out-of-control gambling sector. Now is the time to end gambling advertising."
