Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Entertainment
Surena Chande

Mastermind: Why has John Humphrys left the BBC quiz show as Clive Myrie takes over as host?

With the show set to have its 50th anniversary in 2022, fans were shocked after John Humphrys revealed he was leaving Mastermind by stepping down as its host earlier this year.

The Welsh broadcaster featured on over 700 episodes of the popular quiz show.

And just a month after the announcement, BBC journalist and newsreader Clive Myrie was revealed to be taking his spot as quizmaster.

The new series will mark the first time in 18 years that John isn’t at the helm.

Why has John Humphrys left Mastermind on BBC Two?

The presenter announced he was leaving BBC Two’s Mastermind in February.

Writing in his column for the Daily Mail, he referenced the show's catchphrase "I've started so I'll finish", writing: “I started 18 years ago – a very long time in the ephemeral world of showbiz. Now, after more than 750 shows, it really is time to finish.”

When does Clive Myrie take over as Mastermind host?

The new series of Mastermind airs on Monday, August 23 from 7.30pm to 8pm and will see Clive presenting the show for the first time.

The award-winning journalist has worked as a foreign correspondent for the BBC from places including Asia, Africa and America.

Kate Phillips, BBC director of entertainment, said earlier this year: “Clive will be a superb host – witty, wise and with a wicked sense of humour, he’s a consummate interrogator who also understands the fear involved when facing a barrage of questions in the spotlight.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.