Stephen Mulhern made a surprise appearance on ITV's new reality game show The Neighbourhood on Thursday night, but one contestant had no idea who he was.
Unexpected Cameo
The ITV star appeared on screens during the latest episode, which saw houses divided into self-chosen teams to reveal true alliances. When The Pescuds were not selected by any house, they were automatically paired with newcomers The Khans. Host Graham Norton informed the new pairs that they would host a party later that evening to bond.
As the contestants gathered in their living rooms, they received a text: 'I hope you're all enjoying bonding in your alliances, it's time to get cosy on the sofas to watch some unmissable telly.' Suddenly, Stephen Mulhern appeared on their screens, saying: 'Hello! How are you doing? It's Stephen Mulhern here, and it's game night tonight on Keep Your Enemies Close.'
Contestant Confusion
However, the Uni Boys seemed perplexed. Kevin remarked in a cutaway: 'I have no idea who this is, is it Ant or Dec? I think it's one of the two.' Stephen then introduced a Neighbourhood edition of Catchphrase via pre-recorded clip. While Nathan from The Bradons' family was thrilled, one of the Uni Boys admitted he had never seen the show. Katie from Lozman-Sturrocks explained the simple rule: 'You just say what you see.'
Each team was told that whoever texted the correct answer first would earn a point, and the team with the most points would win. The Pescuds and The Khans emerged victorious, earning the right to influence the immunity challenge. They chose to give the Uni Boys and Lozman-Sturrocks a three-minute delayed start in the next challenge.
In that challenge, four players from each alliance raced around the neighbourhood while tethered together to collect pieces of a shed. The fastest to assemble the shed won immunity from the next vote for both houses.
Game Plans
Before entering the show, The Khan sisters discussed their strategy. Tara confessed: 'I think I'm going to pretend I have nothing behind my eyes and I'm stupid.' Maryam added: 'I think we should keep our cards close to our chest, but I do think we should take each day as it comes and also get to know the other families. I don't want to make any enemies - you might make some lifelong friends there, but also keep your eyes on the prize.'
The Neighbourhood is available to watch on ITVX.
