Interview with Angela Rippon on The Wall

Second series starts on Saturday, October 3 at 9:15PM on BBC One

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Interview with Angela Rippon

How is it to be taking part in another series of The Wall?

Well it’s fantastic because we only had six programmes last year, but after just those six programmes I was meeting people in the street saying, “I love that new programme, there’s so much tension”. They really got involved and loved it. Not just for the general knowledge content but for the tension it created. I’m absolutely thrilled it’s caught the public’s imagination and they love it. It’s lovely to be doing something that is so successful and people enjoy.

What’s your favourite thing about The Wall?

I think what I love about it, particularly in this new series, is the dynamic between the contestants and Danny and the human stories that are coming out. Some of the stories we are hearing are absolutely amazing. So, get your tissues ready because some of the stories are so emotional.

That’s another layer to the programme, it’s not just, “Do you know the answer to these questions?” It’s people at home trying to work out the answers and wanting The Wall to be kind and watch how the money builds or is taken away. All your money can be gone just like that. So there’s all that jeopardy and in addition but it’s the raw human emotions that I think really, really get to people.

Do you have any advice for the contestants?

I suppose the only advice I can really suggest is knowing the person you’re playing really well, and know how each of you may think and feel. I suppose that’s the most important thing because there’s that final jeopardy at the end when you’re given the opportunity of either signing the contract or tearing it up. You have to really know what each other thinks about that moment in that programme. You could tear the contract up and throw away a lot of money, or sign it and have nothing. So, it’s really making sure that the two of you have that synergy and level of understanding and love of each other that whatever decision you make, it’s right for both of you.

How does The Wall compare to other game shows?

It’s got so many layers. It’s not just a general knowledge quiz, it’s not just a game of chance. You decide where you place the balls but you have no control whatsoever. There’s that jeopardy. There’s the understanding and trust between each other as contestants and the rapport that Danny builds. I do think he’s brilliant with the contestants. He’s absolutely terrific at putting them at ease and making them feel like this is going to be fun and that whatever the outcome it’s going to be brilliant for both of them. So you’ve got that dynamic as well. Then you’ve got that emotional rollercoaster. How much money have they won? What’s their story? What do they want to do with it? What’s the link between the two people? There’s so much emotion in this. But then there is an emotional element built into practically every part of the programme.

Do you have a favourite game or quiz show of all time?

I’ve always loved University Challenge and Mastermind. I sit there in awe of the people doing it and the extraordinary knowledge they have.

Source BBC One

September 30, 2020 4:10am ET by BBC One  

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