Mastermind(1972)
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.
- Created by:
- Bill Wright
- First aired:
- 1972-09-11
- Country:
- GB
- Network:
- BBC One, BBC Two
Episodes
1. Episode 1
2026-07-13 · 29m
The specialist subjects are the 15th-century king Edward IV, the band Depeche Mode, the Films of Yorgos Lanthimos and Roy Keane.
2. Episode 2
2026-07-20 · 29m
Specialist subjects include British and Irish cheeses, Jonathan Creek and Johannes Brahms.
3. Episode 3
2026-07-27 · 29m
Subjects include Madness, the films of Wes Anderson and the history of the Paris Metro.
4. Episode 4
2026-08-03 · 29m
Specialist subjects include British birds of prey, Roger Moore's tenure as James Bond and Sylvia Plath.
- No image
5. Episode 5
2026-08-17 · 28m
Specialist subjects include Iron Maiden, Transport for London moquette and the Tintin books of Hergé.
Where to watch
No streaming, rental, or purchase options are listed for this title in United States right now.
Cast
Clive Myrie
Self - Host
