Michael Sheen officially unveiled as new host of House of Games
Stepping into the role previously held by Richard Osman, actor Michael Sheen has been officially unveiled as the new host of House of Games
Michael Sheen has been officially unveiled as the new host of House of Games, stepping into the role previously held by Richard Osman.
The BBC confirmed Michael Sheen, 57, will replace Richard, 55, on the long-running BBC Two quiz show after Richard announced earlier in March he would step down from presenting duties after nine years.
In a statement, Michael 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.”
Michael – whose screen credits include Good Omens, Midnight in Paris and Tron: Legacy – is set to host 100 episodes of the programme, which are due to be broadcast later this year.
His appointment marks Michael’s first role as a quiz show host.
House of Games first launched on BBC Two in 2017 and has grown into a popular early-evening fixture, with the most recent season drawing consolidated viewing figures of more than 1.6 million viewers.
The programme, which airs on weekdays at 6pm on BBC Two and iPlayer, was originally fronted by Richard, who also created the show.
Richard revealed earlier this month he would be stepping away from presenting after nearly a decade at the helm, prompting the BBC to search for a new host.
Tamara Gilder, joint managing director of Remarkable Entertainment, said: “We are thrilled to be handing Michael Sheen the keys to House of Games. The show has always been a love letter to those who adore quizzes – and we have a new host who loves them as much as we do. We can't wait to start filming.”
BBC commissioning executive Caroline O’Neill said: “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.”
House of Games continues to air on BBC Two and iPlayer on weekday evenings at 6pm.
