As far as teatime quiz shows go, this was definitely one of the more entertaining ones, but apparently people didn't like it because it's not as cosy and teatime-ish as Eggheads. I think it's a bit of a cult classic, as far as these things go.
CJ de Mooi ramps up his pantomime baddie type character that he displayed on Eggheads (I think it's an act?) and creates a really awkward atmosphere of mock-tension between himself and the contestants. I like this. Apparently it put viewers off, but isn't this exactly what Anne Robinson did on Weakest Link? In fact she used to flat out interrogate / bully contestants, CJ just keeps it surface with little quips and digs. He also chastises himself on the few occasions he did badly in the final round here, so he does have some humility.
The prize money (built up by contestants) is ridiculously low. Typically the winners will split about £1500 between 3 or 4 of them. Yikes. On ITV shows like Catchphrase, even 3rd place losers could take home about 5 grand, winners £30K+...
Maybe the BBC was more interested in ploughing license payers' money into 'Climate Avenue', the world's first net zero soap opera, with zero episodes.
Jeremy Vine does his usual presenter, reading questions, mild banter type thing. His raport with CJ is good, I don't think this would have worked with the other Eggheads presenter, Dermot someone (who when presenting Eggheads always gave me the impression he'd rather be off reporting live from a big war).
I'm gonna say this is probably in my top 5 of early evening quiz shows of all time.
