CLEVER minds in Basingstoke are being invited to appear on the next series of the BBC’s Mastermind.

Hat Trick/Hindsight Productions, the production team behind the BBC Two quiz show, is looking for anyone over 18 who have 'some general knowledge.'

The popular show is not only looking for regular quizzers, but also those people who usually don’t apply for quiz shows.

A spokesperson for the production team has asked: “Do you have what it takes to sit in the famous black chair?

“Know enough about your specialist subject to be forensically tested? How’s your general knowledge? Are you a pub quiz whizz? Many start - but only one will finish... Will it be you?”

Who can apply?

You can apply if you are aged 18 or over and a resident of UK.

You need some General Knowledge, but the show is really interested in your three specialist subjects. It’s better if you have a wider range.

The show is not limited to regular quizzers. Those who usually might not apply for quiz shows are encouraged to apply.

How to apply?

To apply, you have to send an email to mastermind.hth@hattrick.com, requesting a link to the online application form. 

Last date for application

The last date for application is May 24, 2021 (Monday).

Audition

After you have submitted your application, one of the casting team may get in touch to organise a Skype audition with you. The audition will take 15-20 minutes. It will be a short general knowledge quiz, while they learn more about why you’ve chosen your specialist subjects.

Filming

The heats filming is scheduled to take place in Belfast this summer.

Meanwhile, John Humphrys has announced that is stepping down as Mastermind host after 18 years at the helm.

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He took over as host of the quiz show when it was rebooted for BBC Two in 2003.

Writing in his column for the Daily Mail, he said: “When the present series comes to an end in March there will be someone else in the chair.

“I started 18 years ago – a very long time in the ephemeral world of showbiz. Now, after more than 750 shows, it really is time to finish.

It is not confirmed who would be the next host of Mastermind, but Samir Ahmed has emerged as the favourite. The journalist and broadcaster could become the first woman to present the BBC show in its 50 year history.