Sue Perkins to Host Chess Masters for BBC Two and iPlayer: A New Factual Entertainment Competition Format
BBC Factual has just announced an exciting new show that is set to bring the world’s oldest game back to our TV screens. Chess Masters (working title) will be hosted by the talented Sue Perkins, who is thrilled to be a part of this groundbreaking series.
Sue Perkins expressed her excitement about hosting Chess Masters, where twelve talented amateurs from across Britain will compete against each other in the game of chess. She highlighted the importance of psychology, strategy, smart thinking, and nerves of steel in the game, and promised to help viewers understand the players’ thought processes and the action happening on the board.
Joining Sue Perkins on the show will be three-time British chess champion and grandmaster David Howell, as well as expert chess coach and former Traitors contestant Anthony Mathurin. David Howell shared his enthusiasm for the show, expressing his eagerness to introduce viewers to the intricacies of the game and the chess community. Anthony Mathurin also expressed his excitement about showcasing the intense psychological battle of competitive chess on the show.
Chess Masters (working title) is set to be an exciting brand new Factual Entertainment competition format, where 12 passionate and highly-skilled players will compete across eight episodes. The show will feature heats and knockout rounds, with one player ultimately being crowned the winner.
Chess has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with the game being the fastest-growing sport in the world. The chess app was the most downloaded app from the iPhone store in February 2023, highlighting the game’s widespread appeal. With an estimated six million regular players in the UK and celebrity fans such as Will Smith, Madonna, Leonardo de Caprio, and Lily Cole, chess is becoming a global phenomenon.
Chess Masters (working title) is set to air on BBC Two and iPlayer, with filming taking place in Cardiff. The show was commissioned by Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning, Factual Entertainment and Events, and is produced by Curve Media. The series is expected to premiere next year, bringing the excitement of chess to viewers across the UK.