6 / 10 (based on 284 reviews)
Three contestants hope to answer their way to a fortune, guided by seven celebrity experts in a game show packed with huge stars, big laughs and a colossal spinning wheel. Can the famous faces help them to win life-changing cash?
Genre: Game-Show
Main Cast: Michael McIntyre, Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Mel B, Clare Balding
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2 seasons, 25 episodes, 60-minute runtime
Shows Most Like The Wheel (2020)
Beat the Chasers (2020)
7.6 / 10 (based on 170 reviews)
In the first round, the contestant from the audience is asked up to five multiple choice questions. In the second round, the contestant plays for a jackpot in a quiz against up to five celebrity contestants from The Chase.
Genre: Game-Show
Main Cast: Bradley Walsh, Anne Hegerty, Mark Labbett, Jenny Ryan
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5 seasons, 26 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Richard Osman’s House of Games (2017)
7.8 / 10 (based on 787 reviews)
Richard Osman hosts the game show in which he sets a panel of four celebrity contestants a series of games and puzzles to test their general knowledge.
Genre: Game-Show
Main Cast: Richard Osman, Nish Kumar, Rick Edwards, Dan Walker
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5 seasons, 355 episodes, 29.0-minute runtime
The Masked Singer UK (2020)
5.5 / 10 (based on 508 reviews)
British version of the South Korean singing competition/guessing game hit. Celebrity performers wearing elaborate costumes to conceal their identity compete – can you guess who is beneath the mask?
Genre: Reality-TV
Main Cast: Joel Dommett, Davina McCall, Rita Ora, Jonathan Ross
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3 seasons, 22 episodes
Lingo (2021)
5.4 / 10 (based on 93 reviews)
British version of the quick-thinking, word-based game show, hosted by Adil Ray.
Genre: Game-Show
Main Cast: Adil Ray
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2 seasons, 55 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
I Can See Your Voice: UK (2021)
5.4 / 10 (based on 114 reviews)
British version of the South Korean singing/guessing game. A team of two players aim to win cash prizes by guessing who can and can’t sing from a group of mystery singers – without hearing them sing a note.
Genre: Game-Show, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Paddy McGuinness, Jimmy Carr, Alison Hammond, Amanda Holden
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2 seasons, 11 episodes
The Ranganation (2019)
7.1 / 10 (based on 321 reviews)
Comedian Romesh Ranganathan is joined by celebrity guests and the Ranganation (his very own focus group made up of 25 members of the Great British public) to take a topical, funny look at modern Britain.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Romesh Ranganathan, Shanthi Ranganathan, John Cabrera, Nina Zou Porter
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4 seasons, 25 episodes, 44.0-minute runtime
The Wheel: Survival Games (2017)
7 / 10 (based on 100 reviews)
6 people are left in various eco zones with minimal supplies to survive for 60 days alone. As the “wheel” which is the moon, changes from full to half moons, they are taken from their current zone and moved to the next. The contestants are: a plumber, a wrestler, a fitness model, a marathoner, a former marine, and a nurse.
Genre: Reality-TV
Main Cast: Kat Dellinger, Shon Joyner, Adam Kimble, Josh Morin
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1 season, 8 episodes
Michael McIntyre’s Big Show (2015)
6.8 / 10 (based on 263 reviews)
One of Britain’s top comedians, Michael McIntyre, presents Saturday night entertainment for the BBC from London’s prestigious Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Michael McIntyre, Donna Preston, Neil Hurst, Gilly Daniels
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6 seasons, 34 episodes
The Weakest Link (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 80 reviews)
Comedian Romesh Ranganathan takes charge of the back-stabbing, big money, game show. Can the contestants create a chain of answers and avoid being the weakest link?
Genre: Game-Show
Main Cast: Romesh Ranganathan, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Danny John-Jules, Candice Brown
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1 season, 8 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
In the realm of game shows, innovation is key to keep audiences engaged and entertained. One show that stands out for its unique format and engaging gameplay is “The Wheel” which premiered in 2020. Hosted by the charismatic Michael McIntyre, this show combines trivia with a touch of luck, resulting in a format that’s as unpredictable as it is exciting. Here’s a closer look at what makes “The Wheel” a standout in the crowded field of game shows.
The Concept
At its core, “The Wheel” is a trivia game, but with a twist that sets it apart from your typical quiz show. The game is played on a giant, spinning wheel. This isn’t just for show; the wheel plays a central role in the game’s mechanics. Contestants are selected randomly by the wheel to answer questions with the help of celebrities who are experts in various fields. The goal is simple: win as much money as possible by correctly answering questions. However, the unpredictability of the wheel adds an element of chance that can either work in the contestant’s favor or against it.
The Gameplay
The gameplay of “The Wheel” is where things get interesting. Each episode features three contestants who start the game beneath the wheel. They take turns being randomly selected by the wheel to answer questions. If a contestant answers correctly, they stay in the game. If they answer incorrectly, they’re sent back under the wheel, and another contestant takes their place.
What makes “The Wheel” particularly engaging is the role of the celebrity experts. Each expert is seated at a segment of the wheel, and their knowledge is tied to specific categories. When a contestant is selected to play, the wheel spins, and whichever expert it lands on, that’s who assists the contestant with their question. This introduces a layer of strategy, as some experts might be more helpful than others depending on the question category.
The Host
Michael McIntyre, a well-known comedian, brings a unique energy to “The Wheel.” His quick wit and rapport with both the contestants and the celebrity experts add a layer of entertainment that goes beyond the game itself. McIntyre’s ability to keep the show moving while injecting humor and warmth makes the viewing experience enjoyable, even for those who might not typically be fans of game shows.
Standout Moments
Since its debut, “The Wheel” has had its fair share of memorable moments. For example, there was an episode where a contestant managed to win a significant sum of money despite the odds being stacked against them, thanks to a lucky spin that landed on an expert who provided a crucial correct answer. Another notable moment involved a celebrity expert who, despite being chosen for their supposed expertise, hilariously failed to answer a question in their category correctly, leading to a mix of laughter and disbelief from the audience.
Why It Works
“The Wheel” succeeds for several reasons. First, its unique format distinguishes it from other quiz shows. The combination of trivia, luck, and strategy hooked viewers from the start. Additionally, the inclusion of celebrity experts adds an element of unpredictability and entertainment value that keeps the audience engaged.
Second, the show’s design, with its visually striking set and the giant spinning wheel, provides a spectacle that is both exciting to watch and conducive to building suspense. The visual element of the game, combined with the suspense of waiting to see where the wheel will stop, creates a dynamic viewing experience.
Lastly, Michael McIntyre’s hosting is the cherry on top. His comedic timing and interaction with participants and experts alike bring a light-heartedness to the show that makes it enjoyable for a wide audience.
The Impact
“The Wheel” has made a noticeable impact since its introduction. It’s not just a game show; it’s a demonstration of how creativity and innovation can breathe new life into a well-worn genre. The show has garnered a dedicated following, with viewers tuning in not only for the game itself but for the entertainment value provided by the interactions between McIntyre, the contestants, and the celebrity experts.
Moreover, “The Wheel” has sparked discussions about the role of chance in game shows. While some purists might argue that the element of luck detracts from the skill-based nature of trivia contests, others see it as a refreshing twist that levels the playing field and adds excitement.
Conclusion
“The Wheel” stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of game shows while also pushing the genre forward. Its mix of knowledge, strategy, and luck, combined with a charismatic host and a visually striking set, makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre and casual viewers alike. Whether you’re in it for the trivia, the celebrity interactions, or just to see the wheel spin, “The Wheel” offers something for everyone. In a world where television is often criticized for lacking originality, “The Wheel” spins against the tide, proving that there’s still room for innovation and fun in the classic game show format.