Former Pointless presenter Richard Osman has issued a light-hearted 'come and get me plea' to television executives, confessing he would 'love' to feature on a popular BBC programme as a contestant in the future. The 55-year-old TV personality, who has spent decades in the industry, made the playful remark during a podcast discussion about his upcoming departure from hosting duties.
From Writer to Beloved Presenter
Richard Osman began his television career as a writer on iconic shows such as Whose Line Is It Anyway? and Have I Got News For You. His big break into presenting came in 2009 when he pitched the quiz programme Pointless to BBC executives. During a demonstration, he unexpectedly assumed the role of co-host, impressing bosses and leading to the show's commission.
He subsequently spent 13 years co-hosting Pointless with Alexander Armstrong, becoming a household name. In 2017, he expanded his presenting portfolio by launching Richard Osman's House of Games on the BBC, a celebrity quiz where four famous personalities compete across a week of episodes.
Stepping Down and a Handover
Earlier this year, Osman announced he was stepping down from House of Games, with Hollywood star Michael Sheen taking over presenting responsibilities. On his The Rest is Entertainment podcast, Osman confirmed he would do 'one final week' of the programme to facilitate a smooth transition.
He stated: 'We all want everyone to know how delighted we are that Michael is doing it and that there is a continuation, so he's not going to be a contestant or anything but we'll do a little handover. And I want to welcome him as well, because he's got the best team in telly there and he'll have an absolute ball.'
Osman added that Sheen would host a hundred episodes, with the new series set to air in the autumn.
A Future Contestant Role?
Since announcing his exit, Osman has frequently been asked if he would consider returning as a contestant on House of Games. He responded with a candid admission: 'I wouldn't straight away, that's the truth, I think that's too meta, and also, you have to let someone get their feet under the table.'
However, he left the door open for a future appearance, saying: 'One day I'd love to, that's a come and get me plea, in a few years at Christmas week or something like that. I play along with that show anyway and I never know the answers. I play a lot but I never get to buzz in, so yeah, it'd be nice to watch it and buzz in.'
This humorous confession highlights his playful approach to the quiz format, despite his extensive experience as a host.
Michael Sheen's Excitement
Michael Sheen, known for roles in films like Frost/Nixon and The Damned United, expressed his enthusiasm about succeeding Osman. In an interview with the BBC, the 57-year-old actor said: 'Quite literally very large shoes to fill but as a huge fan of the show I'm incredibly excited to be able to move into the House and at long last see my silhouette on a fondue set.'
Caroline O'Neill, BBC Commissioning Executive, commented: 'We're delighted to have Michael Sheen stepping into the House of Games. His charisma and passion for playfulness will be a joy for audiences and we've no doubt he'll relish throwing himself into a fiercely fought Answer Smash. We can't wait to share this next era of the show with viewers at home.'
Osman's career transition marks a significant shift in the BBC's quiz show landscape, with his potential future as a contestant adding an intriguing twist for fans.
