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Mastermind
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Mastermind

Mastermind is a British quiz show, well known for its challenging questions, intimidating setting and air of seriousness.

Devised by Bill Wright, the basic format of Mastermind has never changed — four and in later contests five contestants face two rounds, one on a specialised subject of the contestant's choice, the other a general knowledge round. Wright drew inspiration from his experiences of being interrogated by the Gestapo during World War II.

The atmosphere is helped by Mastermind's famously ominous theme music, "Approaching Menace" by the British composer Neil Richardson. The quiz programme originated and was recorded in Manchester at studios such as New Broadcasting House and Granada Studios, before permanently moving to MediaCityUK in 2011.

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Created ByBill Wright
StatusReturning Series
Original NameMastermind
First Air DateSeptember 11, 1972
Last Air DateMay 19, 2025
Seasons48
Episodes1118
Episode Runtime 30min
LanguageEnglish
Original LanguageEnglish
Production CountriesUnited Kingdom
Production CompaniesHat Trick ProductionsHindsight Productions
NetworksBBC OneBBC Two
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S52E03

Episode 3

Clive Myrie hosts the classic quiz where contenders take on the famous black chair. Specialist subjects include Jodie Whittaker's tenure on Doctor Who and Edward III.

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