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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Clare Butler

All to know about David Tennant's new ITV quiz show Genius Game

David Tennant will host ITV’s new game show Genius Game which will see players use their social IQ to beat their rivals.

Based on the hugely popular Korean quiz show of a similar format, the eight-part series will see Tennant take on the role of The Creator.

And fans were quick to draw comparisons to Tennant’s previous iconic TV role as Doctor Who’s Time Lord as the Genius Game trailer was revealed.

Tennant's Creator will guide players as they attempt to navigate a set of uniquely crafted challenges.

But who has what it takes to deceive, collude and outsmart their opponents?

How will the game show work?

The Genius Game will see strategically minded players, chosen not just for their high intellectual prowess but also their social IQ, face the ultimate battle of survival.

Contestants will participate in a “host of never-before-seen games” all designed to not only test their intellectual acumen but “encourage them to carefully and creatively use the art of manipulation to outfox their opponents and win a cash prize”, ITV say.

When will The Genius Game be on TV?

The series will premier on ITV1 and ITVX on Wednesday, April 30.

TV Zone says it is likely to air every Wednesday and Thursday for four weeks, however ITV are yet to finalise its schedule.

Katie Rawcliffe, head of entertainment at ITV, said: “This exciting reality format is designed to keep not just the players but the audience on the edge of their seats with each episode containing compelling gameplay and thrilling twists.

"David Tennant is the perfect ringmaster to preside over this battle of brainpower, teamwork and deception.

"We’re delighted to be bringing Genius Game to the ITV audience.” 

In Virgin Media’s Spring TV preview, feature writer Chris Miller, says: “[The Genius Game is] a competitive reality show in which players use their strategic skills and ‘social IQ’ to manipulate and outfox their rivals.

“Frankly it sounds like the most dastardly quiz show ever devised – The Traitors on a shiny floor.”

Sounds good to us!

What has been the buzz around the Genius Game so far?

David Tennant has appeared in some of the biggest film and TV franchises throughout his career including Doctor Who.David Tennant has appeared in some of the biggest film and TV franchises throughout his career including Doctor Who. (Image: PA)

A teaser TV which aired this weekend showed Tennant walking through the halls of the game before stepping into the main room, which looked a bit familiar to some viewers.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), one user said: “That's definitely a TARDIS interior design."

While another added: “That set would make a cracking TARDIS interior...”

“Why is David Tennant hosting a game show set in a TARDIS?” one person joked.

And another said: “This is feeling a bit like ITV’s take on Traitors.”

Even The Chase’s top quizzer Mark Labbett (aka The Beast) shared his thoughts, tweeting: “Genius Game and you haven’t asked me to take part? I am shocked :)” as ITV replied: “Oh Mark, you’ll always be our genius - don’t worry.”

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