What makes The Tournament stand out from other quizzes?
The Tournament is a brand new quiz show coming to the BBC, and will be my first time ever hosting a quiz! I’m hoping viewers will love the high energy it brings, and watching all the fantastic contestants battle their way through the competition. Its’s a show full of strategy and risk, where favourites can be overthrown and underdogs can end up top dog!
How has the experience been for you filming a quiz show as the host for the first time?
You know, it really took me by surprise. It was a new experience for me, but I absolutely loved it. We had a brilliant team, energy, and contestants. I just love spending time with people and learning about their lives, so this show was perfect because I was able to interact with all the contestants and do just that! There were so many different characters and personalities – everyone had such different stories to tell.
At the end of the day, although hosting my debut quiz show was such a special moment for me, ultimately, the show is all about the contestants, and going on the journey with them. What’s great is how the show was totally new ground for me – but equally new for those that participated. So, we ended up going on a new journey together.
What was it like filming in Glasgow? Did you manage to do anything else whist you were there?
I didn’t get to spend as much time exploring the city as I’d like due to filming – this often happens when you’re on location filming somewhere. But I had heard so much about Glasgow and how amazing it is so I’ll just have to earmark it for my next staycation because I am very keen to spend time more up there.
What made you take on this role, and what do you think you are going to bring as host? Has it always been a dream of yours to do something like this?
At first, I was apprehensive because it’s new territory for me, but I love a challenge as a broadcaster. This opportunity meant I could really be ‘me’, show my personality and explore a new role – and that really excited me! It was one of those professional occasions where you must listen to the information you’re being given, seek the advice from the team around you and make a decision, and I’m so glad I went for it.
It was a lot of fun. Each episode is a rollercoaster of emotions and I smile just thinking about it now!
Have there been any funny/emotional moments you can tell us about?
There was a funny moment in every single episode. I have really enjoyed listening to people’s battle cries, thinking they’re going to win and then lose. Lots and lots of funny moments. Every contestant has their own personal journey on the show, and it can be emotional, but in a good way, because it seems to bring out the best in people.
It’s a super diverse range of people, but everyone is so supportive of each other. I believe it’s a really special, inclusive and positive show.
If you could go on any quiz show (apart from The Tournament) as a contestant, what would it be and why?
Although it’s super cheesy to say, I really do think what we’ve done with The Tournament makes me feel like I want to be contestant! It’s fun, it’s accessible, it’s different. It’s open to everyone.
If there was going to be a celebrity version of The Tournament, who would you want to invite on?
Oh wow, good question. So, I’d say Stephen Fry, Clare Balding, Micah Richards, Michelle Visage… and perhaps a few YouTubers. They’re always full of energy.
Do you have any other projects coming up?
Aside from ‘The Tournament’, my main projects are BBC Football Focus every weekend, and I’ve just finished filming Who Do You Think You Are for the BBC. I loved filming it, what a great personal and professional experience!
