Ken Bruce's PopMaster TV is returning to Channel 4 for a second series, extended to 16 episodes after the first run boosted ratings. The show, which originally aired as a six-episode series on More4, lifted the channel to the number one slot at prime-time and increased the audience by 565 per cent on the 8pm slot average.
Bruce will also host two celebrity specials. The new episodes will debut on More4 and are expected to get a second showing on Channel 4. Filming resumes next spring in Glasgow, with Bruce seeking a fresh line-up of contestants.
“I’m thrilled we get to do it again but with more than double the episodes to put even more music lovers, and some celebs, to the ultimate pop trivia test,” Bruce told i. He noted that series one contestants had strong knowledge, particularly of 1960s music.
The TV format expands the radio quiz with five contestants competing in six knockout rounds, including “Intros, Middles and Ends”, “Video Gaga” and “It’s Only Words”. The winner must complete the “three in 10” seconds speed round to win the PopMaster TV gold disc.
Bruce developed PopMaster for his Radio 2 show with question-setter Phil Swern. After the BBC declined to trademark the format, Bruce did so himself. He left the BBC for Greatest Hits Radio in 2023, taking the quiz with him. Channel 4 worked with 12 Yard Productions to bring it to TV, and ITV Studios holds international distribution rights.
Jo Street, Channel 4’s head of Daytime and Features, said the audience had “really embraced and loved PopMaster TV”. Michael Mannes, managing director at 12 Yard, said: “It is great to be able to build on the success of series one.”
