A new series of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? is thought to be just round the corner, but the beloved quiz show may look a little different for its latest outing.
Executives are keen to get the game show, which has been hosted by Jeremy Clarkson since it was revived by ITV bosses in 2018, back into production as soon as next month – with producers reportedly in talks to see how they can make Millionaire? as safely as possible.
Discussions have led to bosses allegedly ditching the show’s ‘Ask the Audience’ lifeline, as Millionaire? is likely to resume filming in an empty studio.
“Bosses are keen to get Millionaire back as soon as possible,” an insider told The Sun.
“They’re hoping they can get the green light to get Jeremy and contestants back in the studio next month and air in the autumn.
“The next issue is the audience and, if there isn’t one, then the lifelines. They’ve discussed a new lifeline entirely, or giving contestants the opportunity to call two friends for help.”
A spokesperson for ITV declined to comment when approached by the Evening Standard.
Millionaire? has previously introduced new lifelines and twists to keep the format fresh, including an “adjustable” safety net of guaranteed money and the new ‘Ask the Host’ lifeline which saw the contestant ask Clarkson what he thinks the answer is.
While we’ve seen five contestants throughout Millionaire?’s history take away the top prize of £1 million, Clarkson is yet to find someone brave the final question during his tenure as presenter.
There has been a renewed interest in Millionaire? following the success of Quiz, the ITV drama which observed the infamous 2001 Major Ingram ‘coughing’ scandal.
