BBC Mastermind fans slam ‘boring’ grand final intros: ‘Scrap them!’
BBC Mastermind fans watching tonight’s grand final took to social media to criticise the contestants “boring” introductions.
Clive Myrie hosted the grand final of the iconic quiz show, as six finalists returned to the famous black chair, aiming to claim the title of Mastermind champion and win the prestigious Glass Bowl.
This year’s specialist subjects included the stage plays of Sir Tom Stoppard, the 1953 Mount Everest expedition, the music of Led Zeppelin, penguins, mathematician Emmy Noether, and the Empire State Building.
Before facing the notoriously tough questions in the black chair, each finalist was introduced with an extended segment.
Viewers learned what drew them to Mastermind, why they chose their specialist subjects, and saw them meet with experts in their chosen fields.
One contestant shared a touching tribute, dedicating his hoped-for win to his late wife, while another – whose subject was the music of Led Zeppelin- was surprised with a pre-recorded good luck message from none other than lead singer Robert Plant.
However, the extended contestant segments drew criticism from viewers, many of whom took to social media to voice their frustration.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “Here we go with the lengthy bios,” while another compared the show’s new format to a talent competition, adding: “It’s all gone a bit X Factor.”
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A third viewer remarked: “I absolutely loved Mastermind when they came on, gave their name, answered questions, and left.
“Now we get 50 minutes of life stories and celebrity interviews, and 10 minutes of questions. #Mastermind.”
Others echoed the sentiment. One wrote: “They could halve the #Mastermind final without all the boring VTs,” while another added: “Lingering this final out as they normally do.”
A sixth chimed in: “Since when has #Mastermind become life stories?”
A couple nostalgic fans invoked the memory of longtime presenter Magnus Magnusson, who hosted the show for 25 years.
“Magnus Magnusson turning in his grave. Get on with the questions,” one person wrote, while another agreed: “Magnus wouldn’t want all the bios, and neither do I.”
Still, not all responses were negative. Some viewers appreciated the personal touches, defending the intros.
“Worth pointing out that the final has had VTs in it for about 20 years. This isn’t new. It’s nice to get to know people. #Mastermind,” one fan noted.
Another added: “#Mastermind unpopular view – I love the bios. It’s nice to get a feel of each contestant. Fascinating stuff.”
In the end, it was teacher John Robinson who claimed victory, impressing viewers with his expert knowledge of the Empire State Building.
He scored 12 points in the specialist round and a remarkable 18 in the general knowledge round, securing the coveted Glass Bowl and the title of Mastermind champion.