Amol Rajan, the new host of University Challenge, has been accused of a patronising tone in his debut episode, which aired on Monday. The 40-year-old broadcaster took over from Jeremy Paxman, who retired in May after 29 years at the helm. Rajan, known for his work on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, faced criticism for his handling of the quiz show's first episode of series 53.
Viewers noted that Rajan's style appeared to mimic Paxman's, with an incredulous 'What?' to an improbable answer and the hurry-up catchphrase 'Come on!' However, his reaction to a bravura response on music—'Wow. Wow. Wow. That’s good!'—suggested a lighter, kinder tone. Despite this, some armchair critics felt his delivery was patronising, particularly when he suggested it would be good to have 'more cricket questions on this programme' after a question about Warwickshire county cricket club.
The episode featured a rare tie between Trinity College, Cambridge, and the University of Manchester, which was decided by a tiebreaker question. Rajan's performance was described as 'slower, crisper' than his usual radio style, with improved precision. However, his shorter stature left a lot of leather headrest visible on Paxman's chair, making him look less comfortable at the desk.
Rajan, who earned up to £339,999 from BBC public service work last year, will receive additional payment for University Challenge, which is produced by ITV Studios for BBC Studios and treated as a commercial engagement. Despite the criticism, Rajan is expected to stay in the role for the long term, following in the footsteps of Gascoigne (25 years) and Paxman (29 years).
