The thirty-sixth series of the iconic ITV quiz show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? is poised to deliver unprecedented drama, with two contestants successfully navigating their way to the ultimate £1 million question. This remarkable achievement marks only the seventh and eighth instances in the programme's twenty-eight-year history where players have reached this pinnacle. Simultaneously, the upcoming season will showcase one of the most substantial financial losses ever witnessed on the show, with a contestant walking away £186,000 poorer after a tense studio encounter with host Jeremy Clarkson.
Historic Milestones and Heartbreaking Losses
Premiering in December with a festive episode featuring celebrity participants like rugby player Joe Marler and comedian Katherine Ryan, the new series promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions. The production team, including creators David Briggs, Steven Knight, and Mike Whitehill, has crafted what ITV's official press release describes as "the most suspenseful runs the show has delivered in years." Jeremy Clarkson, who took over hosting duties in 2018 following Chris Tarrant's long tenure, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I think this may be my favourite series so far. Seeing two people get to the £1 million question was extraordinary."
The Elite Million Pound Club
Since its inception in 1998, only six contestants have successfully answered the final question to claim the life-changing £1 million prize. Judith Keppel made history as the first winner in 2000, followed by David Edwards and Robert Brydges in 2001. Pat Gibson joined this exclusive group in 2004, with Ingram Wilcox achieving the feat in 2006. The most recent addition was Donald Fear in 2020. The upcoming series will determine whether either of the two contestants who reach the final question can join this prestigious club, adding their names to the annals of British television history.
High-Stakes Tension and Unforgettable Moments
Clarkson vividly described the atmosphere during these critical moments, noting, "When they’re sitting there on that final question the tension in the studio is incredible, you can really feel it. Can’t wait for people to watch it." The show's format remains unchanged, with contestants attempting to climb the famous Million Pound Money Ladder using lifelines such as Ask the Audience, 50:50, Ask the Host, and Phone a Friend. However, details about the contestants and their specific gameplay are being tightly guarded to preserve suspense for viewers.
Recent Episodes Highlight Host's Vulnerabilities
The current thirty-fifth series, still airing on ITV, has already provided memorable moments where Jeremy Clarkson's "Ask the Host" lifeline spectacularly backfired. Finance consultant Milan Pathak from West Hampstead found himself stumped by a £32,000 question about which English king was known as the Merry Monarch. After Clarkson's uncertain advice, Pathak ultimately used his Phone a Friend lifeline and incorrectly selected Edward VI, when the correct answer was Charles II. Despite this, Pathak secured £32,000 in winnings.
In another episode, digital client service analyst Aisling Carolan from Edinburgh sought Clarkson's help for a £1,000 question regarding a Channel 4 property series. Following his guidance to eliminate Kevin McCloud and then use the 50/50 lifeline, Carolan incorrectly chose Sarah Beeny over George Clarke, missing out on the prize. These incidents underscore the unpredictable nature of the game and the high-pressure environment faced by both contestants and host.
Anticipated Return and Legacy
Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? first captivated British audiences in 1998 under Chris Tarrant's stewardship until 2014. After a four-year hiatus, the show returned with Jeremy Clarkson at the helm, revitalising its presence on ITV. The upcoming thirty-sixth series, set to air later this month, promises a gripping opening episode that establishes a tone of relentless tension, critical decision-making, and unforgettable television moments. As viewers eagerly await the new episodes, the central question remains: will any contestant join the elite £1 million winners' club, or will the dramatic losses define this historic season?
