‘I have to make it mine!'
TV Times|June 26, 2021
Anne Robinson on putting her stamp on C4’s ever-popular daytime game show
STEVEN PERKINS
‘I have to make it mine!'

COUNTDOWN MONDAY-FRIDAY / C4 / 2.10PM / GAME SHOW

Anne Robinson famously earned the nickname ‘Queen of Mean’ for her steely glare and withering put-downs while hosting the BBC’s popular quiz, Weakest Link.

So, we must admit, it came as a surprise back in February when C4 announced she would be taking the helm of its gentle daytime game show, Countdown, following Nick Hewer’s decision to step down after nearly a decade in the hot seat.

Anne makes her debut this Monday, and when TV Times calls her for a chat about her new job, it’s clear it hasn’t mellowed her in the slightest! In fact, her razor-sharp wit is as cutting as ever – and (delightfully!) we’re no safer from her acerbic observations than a contestant would be.

Here, Anne, 76, reveals why she couldn’t resist when Countdown came calling…

What made you want to be the show’s new presenter?

I’d had a modest amount of offers from, I think, all the channels – several that I didn’t fancy doing. Then Countdown came along, and I thought, ‘That would be really satisfying and enjoyable’. It seemed quite a good fit.

I’ve had all those years thinking on my feet, and it looked like an opportunity to interview the contestants and guests, and be a bit waspish. I tend to do The Times crossword, so I’m not completely hopeless at anagrams. Less good at mental arithmetic.

How did you prepare for this job?

This story is from the June 26, 2021 edition of TV Times.

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This story is from the June 26, 2021 edition of TV Times.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.