Classic BBC show Pop Quiz to return

Classic BBC show Pop Quiz to return

BBC Four is set to revive the classic TV show Pop Quiz for two Christmas specials in celebration of '80s pop music.

Original presenter Mike Read is set to host alongside teams of competing '80s pop stars.

Guests will include Toyah Willcox, Nick Heyward (Haircut 100), Carol Decker (T’Pau), Tom Bailey (Thompson Twins), Andy McCluskey (OMD), Steve Norman (Spandau Ballet), David Grant (Linx), Cheryl Baker and Jay Aston (Bucks Fizz), Ranking Roger (The Beat), Mari Wilson and Lee John (Imagination).

"I'm delighted to be working with a great BBC team to bring back the classic TV series Pop Quiz," said Read. "Once again the brows of the famous will be furrowed, lips pursed and eyes narrowed as we test their music knowledge, watch some great classic footage and have some fun along the way."

Originally broadcast from July 1981 to Jan 1984, the show has been revived a number of times for short periods on a variety of networks. These two specials are set for broadcast in late December, and early January after recording in mid-Decmeber at MediaCityUK in Salford.

Cassian Harrison, channel editor, BBC Four, said: “BBC Four is the home of popular music on BBC television and it's fabulous to bring back one of our greatest and most popular music quiz shows for a very special Christmas treat.”

“Pop Quiz was a musical highlight for viewers every week," said Sohail Shah, commissioner, BBC entertainment. "It's great to bring it back for a new generation, and with its original host, the brilliant Mike Read.”

By Ewan Wilkie



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