What is the UK TV show University Challenge?
University Challenge is a British quiz show hosted by Jeremy Paxman which first aired in 1962. The show is produced by Granada Television for the BBC and features teams of two students from universities across the United Kingdom competing against each other to answer questions on a wide range of academic topics. The show is noted for its difficult questions and its strict adherence to the rules.
Why is Jeremy Paxman standing down from University Challenge?
Jeremy Paxman is standing down from University Challenge after 25 years as the show’s host. He is stepping down to make way for a new host and to make room for a new generation of quiz masters. Paxman has said that he feels the show needs to move in a new direction and that it should be hosted by someone else. The primary reason is probably for health reasons as he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2021.
You can hear the story of Paxman’s experience with Parkinson’s in this documentary he made for ITVX —
https://www.itv.com/watch/paxman-putting-up-with-parkinsons/10a2082
New Presenter and Look for University Challenge
The brand new University Challenge titles have been revealed, featuring the new host Amol Rajan replacing the legendary Jeremy Paxman. This upcoming season is sure to be a memorable one, with an exciting new face at the helm. Amol’s enthusiasm and charm are sure to bring a new energy to the show.
We can’t wait to experience the new twists and turns that the show has in store this season. With Amol Rajan at the helm, University Challenge has the potential to be more captivating than ever before.
It’s a bittersweet moment for all of us, as we bid farewell to the iconic Jeremy Paxman. Yet, we are filled with anticipation for the new season and all the exciting possibilities it has to offer.
Date to Be Announced Soon
University Challenge is shown on BBC 2 usually 8:30 on Mondays. We’ve no idea if this is likely to be changed although it would probably be unlikely. The programme will return to BBC2 sometime in 2023, hopefully very soon so keep watching out for it.