BBC viewers rage as Mastermind is pulled off air in major schedule shake-up

The show has been taken off air two weeks in a row (Image: Getty)

Mastermind viewers have been left enraged after the BBC game show was taken off air.

The popular show, hosted by BBC News presenter Clive Myrie, typically airs on BBC Two on Monday evenings at 7:30pm. However, last night fans were not happy when the programme was suddenly pulled from the schedule.

For the second week in a row, the show has been cancelled and replaced by Test cricket coverage.

Although it recently returned for its 2024/2025 season with three episodes aired so far, the show was not on last night due to the England vs. Sri Lanka cricket match at the Kia Oval in London.

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Mastermind’s official social media has explained the show's absence, with a spokesperson stating that it is taking a short break. They said: “Missed us last night? #Mastermind is taking a short break but we'll be back with four brand new specialist subjects on Monday 16th September at 7:30pm on #BBCTwo."

Viewers were left raging (Image: BBC)

However, fans are furious about the change and have taken to social media to voice their complaints. One person fumed:"Every week, they seem to be showing cricket in the #Mastermind slot. Could they not put that nonsense on BBC 4 instead?"

A second person added: "Where the heck is Mastermind?? Put that boring cricket on another channel!" A third viewer raged:"Exactly what I think of mastermind being dumped again, this time for bloody cricket." A fourth person chimed in: " This certainly isn't Mastermind." However, thankfully, the game show will be back on our screen as its usual time next week.

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Mastermind originally began in 1972 and has had several presenters over the years.

Before Clive Myrie took over as host in 2021, the show was presented by John Humphrys. Humphrys, a veteran broadcaster and journalist known for his work on Newsnight and Today, hosted Mastermind from 2003 to 2021.

John Humphrys left Mastermind after a long run, citing a desire to step back from his broadcasting commitments and pursue other interests. His departure marked the end of an era for the show, leading to Clive Myrie's appointment. Myrie is known for his extensive work as a BBC news presenter and correspondent.

BBC viewers rage as Mastermind is pulled off air in major schedule shake-up

BBC viewers rage as Mastermind is pulled off air in major schedule shake-up

BBC viewers rage as Mastermind is pulled off air in major schedule shake-up

BBC viewers rage as Mastermind is pulled off air in major schedule shake-up

BBC viewers rage as Mastermind is pulled off air in major schedule shake-up