After nine years, Richard Osman bids farewell to the popular quiz show as Sheen steps into the role
Category: Arts & Culture
Michael Sheen officially takes over as the host of BBC Two's House of Games starting Monday, October 5, 2026, following Richard Osman's emotional farewell after nine years at the helm. Osman, who launched the show in 2017, hosted over 800 episodes and concluded his tenure on Friday, October 2, leaving viewers with heartfelt messages and promises for the show's future.
This transition marks a new chapter for the beloved quiz show, which features four celebrity contestants competing in various trivia games throughout the week. As Osman steps down to focus on his writing career, Sheen, a well-known Welsh actor, is excited to fill the "very large shoes" left by Osman.
During his final episode, Osman expressed his gratitude to the crew and viewers, stating, "This show is House of Games not because of me, but because of these incredible people." His farewell included a touching acknowledgment of the audience, emphasizing their role in making the show a success. "From me to you, thank you for watching. That's the real pleasure of this show, it's you, it's the viewers," he said.
Richard Osman's departure from House of Games has been met with a mix of sadness and appreciation from fans. Having hosted the show since its inception, Osman has played a key role in shaping its identity and popularity. His decision to leave was announced earlier in 2026, as he expressed a desire to prioritize his writing career. On his podcast, The Rest is Entertainment, Osman stated, "It will no longer be Richard Osman's House of Games. It will be somebody else's House of Games, and I gladly hand over the keys."
Osman's final episode included a special moment where he addressed the audience and studio crew directly, saying, "You are in very, very safe hands with this new host as well." His heartfelt sign-off resonated with viewers, many of whom took to social media to share their emotional responses. One viewer remarked, "I had tears in my eyes watching this and had to rewind and watch it again to compose myself. You will be missed so much."
In a video shared on Instagram after his last episode, Osman wrote, "The very fondest of farewells to #HouseOfGames, it really has been a treat from start to finish. I can't wait to watch @mablilyradad taking the hot seat from Monday." He also hinted at a possible return to the show as a contestant, saying, "Who knows, maybe I'll even turn up as a contestant one day?" This prospect has delighted fans who hope to see him back in a different role.
Michael Sheen, born in Newport and now residing in Port Talbot, is enthusiastic about taking on the hosting duties of House of Games. In his first week, Sheen will oversee a lineup of celebrity contestants including Stephen Mangan, Shona McGarty, Andi Peters, and Nina Wadia. "Quite literally very large shoes to fill but as a huge fan of the show, I’m incredibly excited to be able to move into the House and at long last see my silhouette on a fondue set," he remarked.
Sheen's passion for the show is evident, as he expressed his excitement about hosting a program he has long enjoyed. He said, "It's something I watch every day. I've long been complaining about why no one had asked me to be on it, I was slightly outraged by that." His enthusiasm extends to the format of the show, which features daily trivia games and culminates in a weekly champion being crowned on Fridays.
As Sheen prepares for his debut, he acknowledges the legacy left by Osman and the challenge of stepping into such a well-loved role. He aims to bring his own flair to the show, ensuring that the spirit of fun and competition continues. The first week of his hosting will see the celebrity contestants compete for daily themed prizes, with the anticipation of who will emerge as the first champion under Sheen's leadership.
With Michael Sheen now at the forefront, House of Games is set to continue its successful run on BBC Two. The show airs weeknights at 6 PM, maintaining its format of engaging trivia and lighthearted competition. Sheen's first week will feature daily games testing the contestants' general knowledge and quick thinking, with a daily winner declared at the end of each episode.
Rob Unsworth, the BBC’s head of daytime and early peak commissioning, praised Osman’s contributions to the show, stating, "His contribution to its success is impossible to overstate, and we couldn’t be more grateful for his work over the last nine years." This acknowledgment highlights the impact Osman had on the program and sets a high bar for Sheen as he embarks on this new chapter.
As fans tune in to see how Sheen adapts to his new role, the show remains committed to entertaining audiences with its unique blend of humor and trivia. The lineup for the first week includes notable contestants, each bringing their own charm and competitiveness to the table. This promises an exciting start for Sheen as he takes the reins of a show that has captured the hearts of many.
As the new host, Sheen is ready to embrace the challenges ahead, and viewers are eager to see what he brings to the beloved quiz show. House of Games continues to be a staple of BBC Two's programming, and with Sheen's debut, the future looks bright for this iconic series.