Michael Sheen's debut as the new host of BBC Two's House of Games has drawn widespread praise from viewers, with many declaring the show is in safe hands following Richard Osman's departure.
The Welsh actor took over the quiz show this week, replacing Osman, who stepped down earlier in the year. Fans took to social media to share their reactions, with one writing: "Brilliant, Michael, well done! Relaxed, happy personality, at ease, no mistakes. Looking forward to watching every evening. Great choice BBC."
Another viewer commented: "Michael Sheen is a consummate professional. His presentation on #HouseofGames is seamless, and it's as if he's been doing it for the last nine years. Exceptional."
Fans praise the new host
Others echoed the sentiment, with one saying: "Michael Sheen’s doing a good job. I’d say that #houseofgames is in safe hands." Another added: "Well done, Michael Sheen. A perfect start as the new host of #HouseOfGames."
One viewer noted the change of host but welcomed it: "Michael Sheen hosting the show is odd because we are so used to Richard, but Michael is doing a great job. The show is in safe hands, and it is still the show we know and love, with games we know and love, just a new host."
Osman's emotional farewell
Osman bid an emotional farewell to the show on Friday, thanking the crew and viewers. He said: "I want to thank the incredible crew. If you're worried about next week, I promise you, this show is House of Games, not because of me, but because of these incredible people. So, you're in very, very safe hands with this new host as well."
He added: "From me to you, thank you for watching. That's the real pleasure of this show, it's you, it's the viewers and people watching with their family and all sorts of things and all sorts of nonsense going on in the world, but you know you got half an hour of silliness going on here. From me, to you, thank you."
Producers and BBC react
When Sheen's appointment was confirmed earlier this year, he said: "Quite literally very large shoes to fill, but as a huge fan of the show, I’m incredibly excited to be able to move into the House and at long last see my silhouette on a fondue set."
Tamara Gilder, Joint MD for Remarkable Entertainment, said: "We are thrilled to be handing Michael Sheen the keys to House of Games. The show has always been a love letter to those who adore quizzes - and we have a new host who loves them as much as we do. We can't wait to start filming."
Caroline O’Neill, BBC Commissioning Executive, added: "We’re delighted to have Michael Sheen stepping into the House of Games. His charisma and passion for playfulness will be a joy for audiences, and we’ve no doubt he’ll relish throwing himself into a fiercely fought Answer Smash. We can’t wait to share this next era of the show with viewers at home."
House of Games airs weekdays from 6pm on BBC Two.
