Blankety Blank viewers have heavily criticised the latest episode of the long-running BBC quiz show, branding it "ridiculous and unfunny" as the programme returned for a new series over the weekend. The comedy game show, which first aired in 1979 and is currently hosted by Bradley Walsh since 2020, featured a celebrity panel including Alex Jones, Roisin Conaty, Richard Ayoade, Gyles Brandreth, Stephen Bailey, and Nadia Jae.
Social Media Backlash Over Format Changes
Many viewers expressed their disappointment on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, following the broadcast. One viewer wrote: "Most of the questions are so ridiculous with no obvious answer. No wonder they don't score. #blanketyblank." Another commented: "Not funny anymore really. Maybe past its sell by date and celebs aren't good #BlanketyBlank."
A third viewer noted: "#BlanketyBlank questions are a lot more random than there used to be," while a fourth added: "The blank questions don't seem to be like they used to be. #blanketyblank." The criticism focused primarily on perceived changes to the show's format and question structure compared to previous series.
Historical Context of the Iconic Quiz Show
Blankety Blank has a rich broadcasting history spanning several decades. Sir Terry Wogan originally presented the show on BBC One from its 1979 debut until 1983. Les Dawson then took over hosting duties from 1984 to 1990, followed by Paul O'Grady presenting as his drag alter ego Lily Savage from 1997 to 1999 on the BBC, and again from 2001 to 2002 on ITV.
David Walliams hosted a one-off Christmas special in 2016, while Bradley Walsh presented another special in 2020 that ultimately led to the current full revival of the programme. The show's format involves celebrity contestants helping members of the public complete well-known phrases by filling in missing words.
Bradley Walsh's Television Career Developments
The criticism of Blankety Blank comes amid significant developments in host Bradley Walsh's television career. The 65-year-old presenter has reportedly become the frontrunner to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as host of Strictly Come Dancing, following their departure from the BBC dance competition last year.
However, industry insiders suggest Walsh faces a potential dilemma as he currently hosts another major Saturday night programme, Gladiators, which he presents alongside his son Barney. The nineties reboot has become an instant ratings hit since its 2024 revival, spanning three series, two celebrity versions, and a CBBC spin-off.
A television source commented: "Bradley is hugely ambitious and hard-working and hosting Strictly was a job he was born to do. But family is hugely important to him. He is very close to Barney and has helped him throughout his career. His son is currently enjoying having the biggest job of his life so far, but it's unlikely the Beeb would let his dad host two big Saturday night shows."
Production Changes Across Walsh's Portfolio
Further complicating Walsh's schedule are reported changes to his other major television commitment. Filming for ITV's The Chase, which Walsh has presented since 2009, has reportedly been halted for "at least a year" according to recent reports. The quiz show, which typically records in three stints annually, wrapped filming of its latest series recently with "no plans" for further recording until next year.
An ITV spokesperson stated: "The Chase has just finished recording series 19 which completes its recording schedule for this year. ITV continue to air The Chase as usual, with a combination of new and repeat episodes across the year. With over 2.5 million viewers per show, The Chase remains one of the nation's most loved quiz shows."
The spokesperson added that new content including "Beat the Chasers for 2026 and a brand new spin off series: The Chase Around the World" are in development. The production pause comes amid broader changes at ITV, which has implemented dramatic cuts affecting numerous programmes following resource reductions in daytime programming.
As Blankety Blank continues its latest series amid viewer criticism, and Bradley Walsh navigates potential career decisions involving multiple major television programmes, the entertainment landscape faces ongoing evolution with established formats adapting to changing audience expectations and production realities.
