Mastermind Faces Backlash Over Contestant's Subject Choice

BBC's quiz show Mastermind has faced significant backlash from viewers over a contestant's choice of the TV sitcom 'Friday Night Dinner' as a specialist subject. Fans criticized the low standards, asserting that the subject merely required a few hours of binge-watching rather than in-depth study akin to topics like Henry II or Agatha Christie's Miss Marple novels. Despite the controversy, contestant Gary Austin performed well, earning 22 points, yet many viewers felt this choice undermined the show's traditionally challenging reputation. The show, which began in 1971, is known for its rigorous questioning, inspired by its creator's wartime interrogation experiences. This incident has reignited debates over whether Mastermind has become too lenient, shifting towards pop culture rather than maintaining its intellectual rigor. Viewers have called for stricter rules on what constitutes an acceptable specialist subject, reflecting a broader dissatisfaction with the show's recent direction.