Mastermind (1972)
One of Britain's most enduring and respected quiz programmes, Mastermind has challenged contestants with specialist knowledge and general questions since 1972.
Mastermind - Series Information
- Original Title: Mastermind
- First Air Year: 1972
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Created by: Bill Wright
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Talk
- Content Rating (US): NR
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (30 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 48
- Number of Episodes: 1127
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 11, 1972 (United States - NR)
- Networks: BBC One, BBC Two
- Production Companies: Hat Trick Productions, Hindsight Productions
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Mastermind - Plot
Mastermind is a British quiz show, well known for its challenging questions, intimidating setting and air of seriousness. Devised by Bill Wright, the basic format of Mastermind has never changed — four and in later contests five contestants face two rounds, one on a specialised subject of the contestant's choice, the other a general knowledge round. Wright drew inspiration from his experiences of being interrogated by the Gestapo during World War II. The atmosphere is helped by Mastermind's famously ominous theme music, “Approaching Menace” by the British composer Neil Richardson. The quiz programme originated and was recorded in Manchester at studios such as New Broadcasting House and Granada Studios, before permanently moving to MediaCityUK in 2011.
Mastermind - Trailer
Watch the official Mastermind trailer and see the iconic black chair in action:
Where to Watch Mastermind
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Mastermind - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Bill Wright
Main Cast
- John Humphrys
- Magnus Magnusson
- Clive Myrie
Executive Producers
- Chris Jones
- Kate Middleditch
- David Young
- Jimmy Mulville
Mastermind - FAQs
Who has hosted Mastermind over the years?
Mastermind has been fronted by three celebrated presenters. Magnus Magnusson held the chair from 1972 to 1997, becoming synonymous with the programme. John Humphrys succeeded him from 2003 until 2021, and Clive Myrie has hosted the series from 2022 onwards, bringing a fresh yet respectful energy to the long-standing format.
Where can you watch Mastermind online?
Mastermind airs on BBC One and BBC Two in the United Kingdom. Episodes are available to stream on BBC iPlayer for UK viewers. For international audiences, availability varies by region. You can compare all current viewing options for your location via JustWatch at justwatch.com.
What is the famous phrase associated with Mastermind?
The phrase “I've started, so I'll finish” became one of British television's most iconic catchphrases, coined by original host Magnus Magnusson. He would say it whenever a question had begun before the buzzer sounded, ensuring the contestant could complete their answer before time was called.
What is Mastermind about?
Mastermind is a long-running British quiz show in which contestants face two rounds: one on a specialist subject of their own choosing and one on general knowledge. Celebrated for its austere atmosphere, ominous theme music, and the iconic black chair, it has tested the depth and breadth of human knowledge since 1972.
Is Mastermind based on a true story?
Mastermind is not based on a true story, but its format was directly inspired by creator Bill Wright's real-life wartime experiences. Wright drew on memories of being interrogated by the Gestapo during World War II, channelling that atmosphere of intense questioning into the show's famously austere and pressurised format.
How many seasons and episodes does Mastermind have?
Mastermind has aired across 48 seasons, accumulating over 1,127 episodes since its debut in September 1972. The show ran continuously from 1972 to 1997, took a hiatus, then returned in 2003. It has continued broadcasting annually ever since, remaining one of the BBC's longest-running quiz programmes.
Is Mastermind still on air in 2025?
Yes, Mastermind is actively in production and returning for new series as of 2025. The show continues to air on BBC Two with Clive Myrie as host. A 2024/25 season has been broadcast, and a 2025/26 season comprising 26 episodes is currently in progress, confirming the series' ongoing status.
What are shows similar to Mastermind?
Viewers who enjoy Mastermind may also appreciate other quiz and panel shows such as QI, Pointless Celebrities, Celebrity Mastermind, and De Slimste Mens. These programmes share a similar emphasis on knowledge, wit, and competitive questioning, making them natural companions for fans of the classic BBC format.
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