The BBC's iconic quiz show Celebrity Mastermind has been rocked by allegations of cheating after a contestant inadvertently revealed that producers provide hints and source materials before filming. The controversy erupted following a now-viral blunder by TV and radio personality Richie Anderson on Monday night's episode.
The 'Abrupt Spice' Blunder That Sparked a Scandal
Appearing on the celebrity edition, hosted by Clive Myrie, Anderson selected pop icon Mel B of the Spice Girls as his specialist subject. In a moment that left viewers cringing, he incorrectly answered that her nickname was 'Abrupt Spice' instead of the correct 'Scary Spice'. The gaffe was so significant that some viewers branded the episode the 'worst 30 minutes in TV history'.
Mortified by his error, Anderson later attempted to explain himself on BBC Radio 2's Trevor Nelson show. It was during this explanation that he let slip the show's behind-the-scenes secrets. He claimed the show's question team provides contestants with all the sources they will use to formulate questions, allowing them to cram in advance.
Behind the Curtain: The 'Crib Sheet' Revelation
Anderson elaborated, stating that while he initially ignored the material out of confidence in his knowledge, a last-minute review of a provided BBC article revealed an obscure alternative nickname. 'When I flew out to film it, because it's in Belfast, there was a four-hour delay on my flight,' he said. 'So I needed to pass the time, so I clicked on one of the links. It's an old BBC interview... she says that the band in 1997 used to talk about alt nicknames and she said hers would be Abrupt Spice.'
This is not the first time the show has faced such allegations. In 2008, journalist Victoria Derbyshire caused a stir by suggesting staff had offered her a 'crib sheet' to prepare when she had only ten days' notice to appear. She later clarified this meant 'research guidance' rather than specific answers.
Fallout and BBC's Response
The revelation has sparked debate about the fairness of the celebrity version of the notoriously tough quiz. Notably, the advance materials did not guarantee success for all; adventurer Lucy Shepherd, who chose explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes as her subject, finished her round with just seven points.
The flagship BBC programme first aired in 1972, with the celebrity edition launching in 2002. The BBC has been approached for comment regarding the latest allegations. Anderson, in a subsequent Instagram video, reiterated his admiration for Mel B, stating: 'I know it's Scary Spice, the woman is my absolute idol.'
