David Tennant to host new reality show billed as the Traitors meets Squid Game

14 March 2024 , 10:40

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David Tennant has been announced as the host of the upcoming ITV show Genius Game (Image: ITV)

Doctor Who star David Tennant has been confirmed as the host of ITV's new challenge reality show Genius Game - being billed as the Traitors meets Squid Game.

Like Netflix hit Squid Game, the series is an adaptation of a South Korean format in which players with differing skills compete against each other in tasks which test their analytical reasoning, attention to detail, memory and loyalty.

And just as happens in BBC's The Traitors, along the way the players must form alliances and decide who to trust and who to betray in order to survive, with £50,000 up for grabs. According to the rules, they must "carefully and creatively use the art of manipulation to outfox their opponents and win a cash prize".

ITV said on Thursday that the brand new reality game was "the ultimate battle of survival" featuring players with high intellect and also social IQ.

Doctor Who star David Tennant is set to host the upcoming ITV show Genius Game (BBC Studios/Bad Wolf/Disney)

Tennant, 52, will take on the role of The Creator in the eight-part series. ITV entertainment boss Katie Rawcliffe said he was "the perfect ringmaster to preside over this battle of brainpower, teamwork and deception."

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She added: "This exciting reality format is designed to keep not just the players but the audience on the edge of their seats with each episode containing compelling gameplay and thrilling twists."

Earlier this week fans worked out that Tennant was the host after ITV’s X account teased it with a number clue. They quickly deciphered that the numbers related to letters - AADDEINNNTTV - which are an anagram of David Tennant.

Tamara Gilder, joint MD of production company Remarkable Entertainment added: "We are so thrilled that David will be guiding the players through the twists & turns of the show. There's nothing quite like Genius Game, it's smart & funny - just like he is - he's the perfect frontman."

Nicola Methven