Clive Myrie has shared his most memorable moments from hosting Mastermind and Celebrity Mastermind as a new series of the celebrity edition prepares to air on BBC Two and iPlayer from 22 December. The upcoming run features 56 famous faces taking the iconic black chair, tested on specialist subjects and general knowledge.
Myrie, who has hosted the show for nearly five years, said he aims to support contestants rather than focus on their struggles. 'It’s a celebration of their ability,' he explained. 'If someone is struggling and I can see it in their eyes that the atmosphere is all consuming, I’m willing them on to do well.' He described the joy of seeing contestants succeed as 'the most wonderful feeling'.
Among his standout memories, Myrie recalled a romance that blossomed between a civilian winner and a finalist during the last series. 'Their eyes met across a darkened room,' he said, adding that he keeps a suit on standby in case of a wedding, referencing Cilla Black's Blind Date tradition. He also noted the show's diverse range of contestants, reflecting 'modern Britain and the diversity of these isles'.
Specialist subjects in the new series include presenter Gemma Cairney on Pamela Colman Smith, the illustrator of tarot cards, and former England footballer Stuart Pearce on the history of UK punk rock. Myrie praised the breadth of topics, from Marvel movies to the Rebecca Riots, saying, 'You won’t ever get the same thing two weeks in a row.' He also highlighted that all celebrities compete for charity, making them 'all winners'.
