Mastermind backdrop image
Mastermind poster

Mastermind

1972 Talk

Rating

5.4/10

Popularity

8

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.

Details

Creator

Bill Wright

Cast

Clive Myrie

Status

Returning Series

Release date

9/11/1972

Last air date

9/8/2025

Seasons

48

Episodes

1127

Origin country

GB

Vote count

11