BBC viewers have delivered a scathing verdict on the latest episode of Celebrity Mastermind, with many switching off and branding it the "worst 30 minutes in television history".
Controversial Choices Spark Backlash
The celebrity quiz show returned to BBC screens on Monday, 12 January 2026, featuring contestants including JLS star JB Gill, comedian Susie McCabe, TV host Richie Anderson, and adventurer Lucy Shepherd. However, the specialist subject selections quickly ignited a social media firestorm.
Comedian Susie McCabe's decision to answer questions on former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as her specialist topic proved deeply unpopular with a segment of the audience. Meanwhile, JB Gill chose the Bad Boys film franchise, a pick that also failed to impress some viewers tuning in.
Social Media Erupts in Disbelief
Disgruntled fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice their dismay. One viewer posted: "A round on Thatcher (spits) and Richie Anderson as a 'celebrity'... This could be the worst 30 mins in TV history!"
Another added: "Cannot bear to watch any more of #CelebMastermind... a round on Margaret Thatcher? Seriously?" The criticism was widespread, with comments labelling the broadcast as "painful viewing" and "cringeworthy".
Spice Girls Blunder Becomes Focal Point
The sense of disbelief reached a peak when contestant Richie Anderson fumbled a seemingly simple pop culture question. Asked for Mel B's Spice Girls nickname, he incorrectly answered "Abrupt Spice" instead of the correct "Scary Spice".
This gaffe became a major talking point online. One astonished viewer tweeted: "Abrupt Spice? Good grief!", while another found humour in the mistake, declaring it had made their day. A further comment read: "This is a prank, right? Somebody's taking the p***!"
Other viewers expressed frustration over the celebrity line-up itself, with one complaining that Richie Anderson was the only participant they recognised.
The episode of Celebrity Mastermind that sparked such a strong reaction remains available for viewers on BBC iPlayer.
