Ben Shephard's Off-Camera Kindness Revealed by Tipping Point Contestant
Ben Shephard has hosted the popular ITV quiz show Tipping Point for an impressive twelve years, since its debut in July 2012. As a prominent British television presenter and journalist, Shephard is widely recognised for his roles on This Morning, Good Morning Britain, and Ninja Warrior UK. However, a former contestant has now shared a revealing glimpse into his true character when the cameras are not filming and he is away from the spotlight.
Ellie Millar's Experience on the Show
Ellie Millar, a social media personality with 2.9 million TikTok followers, detailed her appearance on Tipping Point in October 2022, following filming in May of that year. Her journey began after watching the programme with her now-husband, Sam, which inspired her to submit an application. She was astonished when producers contacted her just weeks later.
Ellie recalled the initial screening process, stating, "They asked me some more general knowledge questions. I don't really remember those ones but, again they were not all correct and they were like okay thank you Ellie we will be in touch." After a few weeks of silence, she received a phone call confirming her place on the show, leaving her in disbelief.
Filming Details and Wardrobe Challenges
Ellie recorded her episode on May 26, noting that ITV covered her travel expenses to Bristol, the filming location, as well as accommodation for the duration of production. She described how contestants were required to bring three outfit choices that could not feature blue, patterns, or any branding, with producers preferring vibrant colours.
In a surprising twist, all three of her outfits were rejected by the production team, forcing her to wear the jumper she had travelled in during the show. After this wardrobe mishap, the contestants headed to the stage to finally meet Ben Shephard.
Meeting Ben Shephard
Ellie said, "Then it was time to go to the stage and to meet Ben Shephard. He was just talking to the producer and was like 'hi guys, are you okay?' He was so so lovely and I was a bit starstruck." She emphasised his genuine nature, adding, "He was the nicest, nicest man, he was lovely. You know how people say you see them on TV and when you meet them they're not all that, he was all that and more."
Despite the nerves among contestants, Ellie praised Shephard for his calming influence, noting, "Honestly we were all so nervous, but Ben was really really good at making you calm and putting you at ease. He just made it feel like it was really really fun, which it was it was so good."
Gameplay and Post-Show Interactions
Ellie triumphed over both opponents and competed solo for a potential £10,000 prize in the final stage. However, she admitted performing "terrible" in the concluding round, managing to accumulate just £2,100 in her prize fund. When host Ben enquired whether she wished to continue pursuing the £10,000, she opted to secure her winnings rather than gamble further.
After the show, Shephard showed further kindness by offering to take a photo with Ellie. She recalled, "After the show Ben was like 'would you like to get a photo?' So yeah, I was chatting to Ben saying this money can get me and my boyfriend to Bali and I left." Producers then had her sign a contract regarding the payment timeline for her prize money.
Rules and Payment Process
Ellie added, "The only rules I was told is that I couldn't disclose to anyone what the outcome of the show was. I did tell my mum though, I'm not going to lie." While the programme broadcast on October 26, she clarified that she was not required to wait until transmission before receiving her prize money.
She revealed, "I think It was around one month, like three or four weeks. I know they had to do a few checks and things like that, but it was pretty quick." This insight into the behind-the-scenes process highlights the efficient and professional handling of contestants by the ITV team.
