Comedians fronting game shows
In the rich tapestry of British television, few pairings are as natural - or as consistently entertaining - as comedians fronting game shows. Blending quick wit, sharp improvisation, and audience charm, these hosts elevate traditional formats with a uniquely British sense of humour. Here are five comedians who have recently brought laughter and levity to the world of game shows.
Lee Mack - The 1% Club
Best known for his rapid-fire gags on Would I Lie to You? and sitcom Not Going Out, Lee Mack brings a distinctive mix of cheekiness and intellect to ITV's The 1% Club. Unlike typical quiz shows that reward rote knowledge, The 1% Club challenges contestants with logic and lateral thinking puzzles - the kind that only 1% of the population can answer correctly.
Mack's dry delivery and mock-exasperated responses to contestants' answers provide a comedic through-line, while his natural ability to engage with both the studio audience and viewers at home makes the format shine. A ratings hit for ITV, expect more series to come.
Graham Norton - Wheel Of Fortune
This game show launched in the USA in 1975. Graham Norton is the host for the current UK version. Contestants spin the wheel to win cash amounts, prizes or go bust as they try to solve missing words on a giant screen.
While Wheel Of Fortune leans heavily on gameplay mechanics, Norton elevates the show by bringing warmth and playfulness to each round. His ability to put contestants at ease, ad-lib with flair, and deliver punchlines without derailing the action makes him a perfect fit for the reboot - a blend of showbiz polish and genuine humour.
The game has proven so popular, that like others, it's been turned into a gaming app for people to join in, not to mention it has become one of the leading slots games online thanks to its likeability and jovial theme.
Alan Carr - Picture Slam
Alan Carr has long been a favourite of British audiences thanks to his flamboyant, warm-hearted humour and a voice that's instantly recognisable. On Picture Slam, a fast-paced BBC game show where contestants must name as many items in a picture as possible, Carr's role is not just to guide the gameplay but also to infuse it with infectious energy and mischief.
Carr's style - bubbly, self-deprecating, and effortlessly inclusive - transforms what could be a straightforward visual quiz into a rollicking, feel-good half hour of telly. His rapport with contestants, especially when they stumble under pressure, is a masterclass in gentle ribbing without ever being cruel.
Zoe Lyons - Lightning
Zoe Lyons is the sharp-tongued stand-up comedian who took on hosting duties for the BBC quiz show Lightning. The fast-paced format combines general knowledge with physical movement across a studio floor, all under intense time pressure - and Lyons keeps the energy high with her wry humour and no-nonsense attitude.
Her background in comedy shines through in her quick reactions to contestants and her ability to make even wrong answers entertaining. Lightning marked a significant moment in modern game show hosting, giving a solo female comic centre stage in a primetime BBC quiz format.
Mo Gilligan - That's My Jam
Mo Gilligan brought high energy, charisma, and plenty of music-based humour to the UK version of That's My Jam, adapted from the US format. The show features celebrities competing in over-the-top musical games, from lip-sync battles to lyric challenges, all wrapped in a lively, late-night variety atmosphere.
Gilligan's confidence and quick wit suited the chaos of the format perfectly. His success as a host highlights how modern comics are reshaping the traditional game show with freshness and flair.
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