Victoria Coren Mitchell has addressed viewer backlash after jokingly calling contestants "idiots" on BBC's Only Connect.
The 52-year-old presenter expressed hope that participants would "forgive" her hosting style as the quiz show approaches its 500th episode milestone.
The controversy erupted during last week's episode when some viewers took offence at her opening statement about third-place playoff teams.
During the episode, Mitchell said: "98 per cent of viewers don't even understand the questions on this show, they're not even sure we're broadcasting in English."
She continued: "So to finish third in the actual competition is a towering achievement, and the people here are intellectual giants. They're just idiots compared to the people in the final."
Viewers quickly took to social media to express their disapproval, as one penned on X: "Bit rude of Victoria Coren Mitchell to call them idiots."
The teams were left stunned when Victoria called them idiots
BBC
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Another commented: "Not many quizzers would laugh at being called idiots."
"Did she say what I think she just said? That's so rude," a third noted before another said: "Victoria... that's a bit low." (sic)
In response to the criticism, Mitchell later clarified her comments about the contestants.
Mitchell clarified her genuine respect for contestants, describing them as "obviously geniuses" despite her trademark acerbic remarks.
The best two teams too part in the final tonight
BBC
"The contestants are obviously geniuses, but we're all on the same team – me, the teams and the viewers," she explained.
She added that the show "assumes the audience is made up of bright, engaged, curious people with an interest in the world around them."
The BBC star noted that this applies "even if they only get one question right per series and do cartwheels round the living room if that happens."
In a recent interview marking the show's 500th episode, Mitchell reflected on her relationship with contestants over the years.
"I have had many favourite teams. I couldn't possibly name them, though, because the teams I don't mention might feel unloved," Mitchell said.
She revealed she's only disliked "maybe three teams, in over 15 years," and added: "These are my kind of people. If we met under different circumstances, I hope we'd be friends."
The Four Opinions were victorious and took home the trophy
BBC
She concluded: "Given the circumstances we do meet under, all I hope is that they forgive me."
As it approaches its 500th episode, the programme continues to attract viewers who appreciate its tricky questions and lighthearted fun.
Despite occasional controversies, Mitchell's approach has helped establish Only Connect as one of Britain's most respected quiz programmes.
