As I delve into the lives of these remarkable individuals who graced our screens as hosts of Pointless, it is clear that they are not just faces we see on TV, but individuals with rich and diverse backgrounds.
Once again, the popular game show “Pointless” makes its comeback this summer! A fresh lineup of celebrities will be joining Richard Osman’s vacated chair as co-hosts for the upcoming series.
Once again, Alexander Armstrong will have a well-known companion, as participants strive to accrue the least number of points while being tested on their overall knowledge.
2022 saw Osman step away from his role as co-host on the show “Pointless” after a run of 14 years. Since then, a variety of celebrities have taken turns filling his spot.
To start off this week, it’s Josh Widdicombe assisting Armstrong in the intellectually challenging quiz. However, who else will be part of the diverse assortment of performers, humorists, and media personalities that will join him as the series progresses?
Here is everything you need to know about the new Pointless presenters.
Pointless guest hosts
- Mel Giedroyc
- Liza Tarbuck
- Chris Ramsey
- Gok Wan
- Anita Rani
- Gabby Logan
- Josh Widdicombe
- Phil Wang
- Hugh Dennis
- Ellie Taylor
- Rob Rinder
- Desiree Burch
Josh Widdicombe
A significant number of viewers might be familiar with stand-up comedian Josh Widdicombe, as he is often seen co-hosting The Last Leg along with Adam Hills and Alex Brooker.
In reference to appearing on Pointless, Widdicombe expressed: “I’m overjoyed to have the opportunity to act like Richard Osman for a brief period, and to any potential publishers tuning in, indeed, I am ready to pen a murder mystery for you.”
Mel Giedroyc
As a passionate movie buff, I’m no rookie when it comes to emceeing gigs. From co-hosting the delightful The Great British Bake Off, the lighthearted Light Lunch, all the way to Let It Shine – I’ve had my hands full!
A significant number of spectators are likely to recall Giedroyc’s memorable scene at Eurovision the previous year, where she briefly demonstrated butter-churning during the sign language competition.
I’ve had the pleasure of appearing on shows like Taskmaster, Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker, and The Big Fat Quiz of the Year. What a joy it’s been to be part of these fantastic productions!
As I prepare to step into my hosting role on Pointless, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe. Standing alongside the Roosevelt desk, The News at 10 desk, and that of David Brent, the Pointless desk is legendary, and I am truly humbled to have the opportunity to sit behind it as co-host for the upcoming series of Pointless. Interacting with Xander only makes this experience perfect – I can hardly contain my excitement!
Liza Tarbuck
Known primarily for portraying Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway in the series Upstart Crow, actress Tarbuck boasts an extensive resume that encompasses roles such as Linda Green, a character from The Big Breakfast, and a participant in Comedy Game Night.
As someone who has spent decades in radio broadcasting and hosted several popular shows, I am thrilled to announce that I will be taking over as the temporary host for a few episodes of Pointless this year. Having worked with BBC Radio 2 for many years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the network and its loyal audience. I can’t wait to bring my passion for entertainment and engaging conversations to this beloved quiz show. I believe that my extensive experience in radio will help make these episodes unforgettable for viewers at home.
“Tarbuck shared that she enjoys trivia games, particularly the show Pointless, and during our quiz time at Tarby Towers, we gather around with a cup of tea, so I wanted to entertain my parents by participating in it.”
“I’m genuinely excited about collaborating with Xander; his captivating charisma and generosity are part of the reason we welcome him into our homes daily. I believe I’ll thoroughly enjoy this experience.”
Chris Ramsey
Stand-up comic Chris Ramsey gained prominence following his role as Jack in the BBC sitcom Hebburn. Since that time, he’s hosted shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Extra Camp, Children in Need, and Virtually Famous.
Lately, he’s been co-hosting with his wife, Rosie Ramsey, the humorous “Shagged, Married, Annoyed” podcast.
He expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Pointless family by saying: “I’m thrilled to be joining such a renowned game show! It’s an incredible opportunity to be the one who already knows most of the answers…almost like a game show expert or something. I’ll just be there to correct people when they get it wrong. Can’t wait, it’s like my dream come true!”
Gok Wan
Gok Wan gained popularity as the host of “How to Look Good Naked” and “Gok’s Fashion Fix,” and later presented various television programs, such as “Gok’s Clothes Roadshow” and “Gok Cooks Chinese.” (In a more conversational style: Gok Wan first became famous hosting shows like ‘How to Look Good Naked’ and ‘Gok’s Fashion Fix.’ He then went on to host other TV programs, including ‘Gok’s Clothes Roadshow’ and ‘Gok Cooks Chinese.’)
He also DJs across the UK and abroad and in 2020, he released his debut single.
Gok Wan expressed that after appearing on the show as a contestant and performing poorly, he is eager to make up for it by taking over the host role and stepping into those well-known shoes. He’s thrilled about being part of the Pointless team for this milestone series.
Anita Rani
On BBC, Rani has gained recognition through her role as a co-host for Countryfile. She’s accustomed to hosting shows, with previous assignments such as Four Rooms, The Answer Trip, and Aldi’s Next Big Thing on her resume.
In 2022, Rani was announced as the new chancellor of the University of Bradford.
She expressed her excitement about hosting Pointless as a guest: “I’ve been enjoying Pointless at home with my cup of tea and favorite cookies, now I’ll be in the studio alongside Xander, engaging with contestants (and maybe even some tea and cookies). It feels like a dream come true! I can hardly wait!”
Gabby Logan
Broadcaster Gabby Logan, hailing from Wales, has been the host for Final Score on BBC Sport, the annual Sports Personality of The Year event, and also the second installment of The Edge program.
2023 found me, the moviegoer, gracing the commentator’s booth for some of the most exhilarating sporting events: the Six Nations, the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the Great North Run. Each event brought its unique energy, showcasing the unparalleled passion and skill that these athletes possess.
Preparing herself to take her seat in the wisdom-filled chair, Logan expressed his eagerness about his upcoming stint as a co-host on Pointless. He’s been an admirer for quite some time now, and he can hardly wait to work alongside Alexander, pick up some new knowledge, and root for the triumphant team!
Phil Wang
Previously, I’ve had the chance to compete on Pointless. Now, I’m thrilled to step into the role of guest host, eager to show my knowledge from behind the desk and take control, so to speak.
Wang serves as both a stand-up comedian and writer, and he’s had the opportunity to appear in shows like David Mitchell’s Outsiders and Taskmaster, in addition to his own comedy specials.
Hugh Dennis
Many viewers may recall Dennis from his roles on the BBC sitcoms Outnumbered (as Pete Brockman) and Not Going Out (as Toby), sharing screen time with Lee Mack and Sally Bretton.
Dennis has often occupied the host’s position, having served as a co-host on Mock the Week before it concluded in 2022.
He said: “I am very pleased to have been invited to co-host Pointless. I’ve been practicing reading the answers from a laptop, while looking like I knew them all anyway…”
Ellie Taylor
Humorist Ellie Taylor has graced our television sets for more than ten years, contributing to and hosting numerous shows that have won the hearts of many viewers.
Among them are shows such as 8 Out of 10 Cats, Mock the Week, Strictly Come Dancing, The Great British Bake Off (replacing The Great Pottery Throw Down), and Stand-Up Central.
Taylor said she “can’t wait” to work on Pointless.
Rob Rinder
Of Judge Rinder fame, Rob Rinder believes he was “born for” being a guest host on Pointless.
He said: “Pointless is the quiz show of all quiz shows, especially for someone like me who loves their facts and stats. This is the role I was born for, gatekeeper to all the obscure trivia we love on Pointless and I couldn’t be more ready.”
Besides his role as the host of Judge Rinder, this barrister has also taken charge of shows like “The Rob Rinder Verdict” and has become a frequent guest host on Good Morning Britain since 2022.
Desiree Burch
Desiree Burch is known for her work as both a comedian and an actress, with appearances on shows like Live at the Apollo, Would I Lie to You?, and Richard Osman’s House of Games.
Before her performance on the show, Burch mentioned that for a handful of friends in America, her appearance on Pointless might be the most notable accomplishment of her career. Personally, she considers herself fortunate to have found an opportunity for redemption.
“I was just as surprised as everyone else when I landed on ‘Pointless Celebrities,’ but somehow ended up next to the stage with all the right answers. Cheers to moving ahead despite failures!”
Former guest hosts
Andi Oliver
Andi Oliver is a TV chef and presenter who is best known for her role on the Great British Menu.
Initially part of the band Rip Rig + Panic, she subsequently transitioned into broadcasting, hosting shows such as Badaas TV, BBC’s Glastonbury coverage, The Truth About Food, Neneh and Andi Dish It Up, Sky Arts Book Club, and The Selector. Additionally, she experimented with running a transient restaurant called The Moveable Feast before establishing her own culinary space, The Jackdaw and Star.
On appearing as a guest-host for Pointless, Oliver expressed: “I’m absolutely ecstatic about getting to take my place in the renowned chair beside Alexander Armstrong! Not only have I experienced both winning and being eliminated early on this show, but I’ve been fortunate enough to be invited to sit in the comfortable host seat this time around. I can hardly wait!”
Sally Phillips
British actress and humorist Sally Phillips is jointly responsible for creating and playing the lead role in Smack the Pony, and she has also been seen in shows like Jam & Jerusalem, The Alan Partridge Show, Miranda, and the Bridget Jones series.
Apart from that, she additionally appeared in shows like Skins, Pride and Prejudice: A Laughter-ish Contemplation of Murder, Trollied, Friday Night Dinner, and participated in the fifth round of Taskmaster.
Upon becoming part of the presenter team, Phillips expressed his excitement about stepping into Richard Osman’s large shoes as the “answer police” on Pointless. He jokingly added that he anticipates the allure of the Pointless laptop might make him arrogant, and he can’t wait for this potential transformation.
Ed Gamble
Comedian Ed Gamble is recognized for making appearances on shows like Russell Howard’s Good News, Mock the Week, Taskmaster, and Great British Menu. He has additionally hosted Off Menu alongside James Acaster, and co-hosts The Peacock and Gamble Podcast.
Gamble begins co-hosting Pointless with Alexander Armstrong from Monday 3rd April onwards.
Gyles Brandreth
Gyles Brandreth is a broadcaster and former politician who has appeared on Countdown, Good Morning Britain and Celebrity Gogglebox. He regularly appeared on Countdown’s Dictionary Corner and TV-am’s Good Morning Britain before becoming the Conservative MP for the City of Chester from 1992 until 1997.
Since then, he has released numerous books, made appearances on shows such as Room 101, Richard Osman’s House of Games, Great Canal Journeys, Bargain Hunt, The One Show, Doctor Who, and radio programs like Just a Minute and The Westminster Hour.
Upon becoming part of the Pointless panel, Brandreth expressed: “As a child, I aspired to be one of Santa’s assistants. Let me tell you, helping out Xander is far more enjoyable. It feels like celebrating Christmas each day. I absolutely adore it.”
Nish Kumar
As a die-hard film enthusiast, I’d like to highlight Nish Kumar – a gifted stand-up comedian who has graced our screens hosting programs such as The Mash Report, Late Night Mash, and BBC Radio 4 Extra’s Newsjack. His charm has not gone unnoticed in various other shows, including Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Mock the Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Big Fat Quiz, and many more!
Upon becoming part of the team, Kumar expressed his excitement saying, “I can hardly wait to take my seat at the desk and dish out all the smart replies and obscure trivia, even though I might not know most of them. Filling Richard’s shoes will certainly be a challenge, but I am eagerly anticipating it.”
Lucy Porter
Lucy Porter is a versatile entertainer, well-known for her work as both an actress and a stand-up comedian. She’s graced stages at the Edinburgh Fringe and numerous other comedy events. On screen, she’s been featured in shows like EastEnders, Annually Retentive, Mock the Week, The Weakest Link, Celebrity Mastermind, Pointless Celebrities, QI, and more.
Upon becoming a part of it, Porter expressed his joy by saying: “I’m excited to be a part of my favorite TV quiz show. I was initially a fan, then a contestant, and now I can hardly wait to sit in Richard’s chair. Maybe they’ll allow me to try running the cameras as well.”
“Excited to share a favorite quote of mine: ‘When I say ‘country,’ I’m referring to an independent nation, which is a full-fledged member of the European Union on its own accord.'”
Ria Lina
Ria Lina is a comedian and actress who’s been featured on Mock the Week, Steph’s Packed Lunch, Sky News, and Have I Got News For You. She has also participated in Celebrity Mastermind and provided the voice for Perun in Xenoblade Chronicles 2.
Upon becoming part of the Pointless panel, Lina expressed her delight: “Being not only a passionate home player and a celebrity contestant, I’ve always dreamed of sitting in that revered chair and providing all the correct answers!”
“I’m really excited to collaborate with Xander, and I hope to motivate as many teams as I can to take a shot at winning the Pointless prize.”
Rose Matafeo
The New Zealand-born comedian, Rose Matafeo, is primarily recognized for her work in developing and acting in the series “Starstruck” on BBC Three, as well as making appearances on shows such as QI, House of Games, and Taskmaster.
She recently competed on The Great Stand Up to Cancer Bake Off and has previously taken on acting roles in The Breaker Upperers, Baby Done, W1A, Golden Boy and Dead Pixels.
Upon becoming a part of the Pointless guest presenter roster, Matafeo expressed his immense excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled beyond belief to be sharing hosting duties for Pointless! As a devoted lover of TV trivia games, this opportunity feels like conquering Mount Everest.”
Initially, when I relocated to the UK, I found myself with a considerable amount of leisure time. I used this opportunity to immerse myself in British culture by spending numerous hours watching TV and gaining knowledge from a daily poll featuring 100 individuals. Additionally, I did it to provoke a touch of envy among my friends.
Vick Hope
Vick Hope, recognized widely, is primarily renowned for presenting the evening program on BBC Radio 1 alongside Jordan North.
Previously, she has presented Capital Breakfast, BBC Radio 1’s Official Chart: First Look, as well as television shows like Sky One’s Carnage, I’m a Celebrity… The Daily Drop, the BAFTA Film Awards pre-show red carpet, Britain’s Best Young Artist, and in 2019, she participated in Strictly Come Dancing.
Upon taking my place in the lineup, I expressed: “It’s simply delightful to engage in a quiz at teatime on this legendary game show! Pointless is my favorite, trivia and quizzes are my passion, and I can hardly wait to join Xander and the contestants each day from Richard’s hot seat. A very enthusiastic Pointless co-host is on the way!”
Alex Brooker
Alex Brooker is primarily recognized as a television host and humorist, particularly for his work on Channel 4’s The Last Leg, where he teams up with Adam Hills and Josh Widdicombe. Beyond this, he has also taken the helm for shows like The Jump, The Superhumans Show, and the documentary Alex Brooker: My Life in Spinning Places, which delves into his life as a comedian born with hand and arm abnormalities, and a severely twisted right leg that eventually required amputation.
Brooker co-hosted Pointless from 7th February until 21st February 2023.
Konnie Huq
Konnie Huq is primarily recognized for hosting the children’s television program Blue Peter for over a decade, after which she participated in Comic Relief Does Fame Academy, 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Weakest Link, Pointless Celebrities, and MI High.
Apart from that, she’s also been a host for shows like The Xtra Factor, Guinness World Records Smashed, The Daily Politics, King of the Nerds, The One Show, and has made appearances in Charlie Brooker’s Screen Wipe series.
Huq co-hosted Pointless from 23rd January until 6th February this year.
Lauren Laverne
Lauren Laverne is a well-known radio host and TV presenter who initially gained popularity as a member of the band Kenickie. Afterward, she expanded her career into broadcasting. Currently, she hosts BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, and in the past, she has presented Channel 4’s Alternative Election Night, The Culture Show, and made appearances on Would I Lie to You?, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, and Have I Got News for You.
Laverne co-hosted Pointless from 20th October until 3rd November last year.
Stephen Mangan
Stephen Mangan is a versatile entertainer known for his comedic roles, having graced the screens in popular sitcoms such as Green Wing, I’m Alan Partridge, Episodes, and Hang Ups. Additionally, he has made appearances in The Split, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Have I Got News For You, and Jane Hall.
Mangan co-hosted Pointless from 5th October until 19th October last year.
Sally Lindsay
Actress and comedian Sally Lindsay primarily gained fame through her performances in popular series like Coronation Street, Mount Pleasant, Still Open All Hours, and The Madame Blanc Mysteries. In recent times, she has taken up hosting duties for the ITV game show Tenable.
For 11 episodes, running from September through the 4th of October, she shared hosting duties on the show “Pointless” with Alexander Armstrong.
Pointless airs weekdays at 5:15pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
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2024-08-19 12:35