Like pornography and crisps, BBC Two’s Monday triple header of Mastermind, Only Connect and University Challenge can be very addictive Queen's University Belfast on University Challenge with host Amol Rajan. Photo via BBC Maybe 90 minutes of quiz shows is not your idea of a good time. Maybe it’s not anybody’s idea of a good time.
As you settle down in front of BBC Two on a Monday night for the launch of its quiz night — Mastermind followed by Only Connect followed by University Challenge — you can’t help wondering what kind of weirdo would volunteer to watch this much quizzing, and feeling rather sorry for those sad saps. By the time the 90 minutes is over, you’re worried that you are just such a weirdo yourself. Because quizzes are addictive, just like pornography and crisps.
The ruthless rhythm of the questions, the insatiable human desire to be correct about everything, and above all, the music and sound effects combine to raise your heartbeat and your hopes for your own small self. Perhaps you might be cleverer than all the contestants, or maybe just get one question right. Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel Stay up to date with all the latest news.
