Scandinavian nation to make its own version

Sweden is to make its own version of QI.

Johan Wester, a comedian famous there for his sketch show Hipphipp!, will take the Stephen Fry role of hosting the show when it airs on SVT Channel One in the autumn.

It will be produced by Anders Lenhoff, who previously made a home-grown version of Have I Got News For You, as well as the world's first version of Survivor.

He told the official QI website: ‘Let's just say that I thought QI was a totally brilliant idea the moment I heard it; I share [creator] John Lloyd's idea that curiosity, seeking of knowledge and entertaining conversation can lead to a better world. Sort of.

‘If nothing else, there is an appalling lack of curiosity, knowledge and entertaining conversation in the world today. Let's try to change that, in our own small way.’

The Netherlands have previously tried to make their own version of the show, but it was axed in early 2009, after just eight episodes.

Meanwhile, the original episodes are proving a big hit in Australia, where it was the highest-rated non-news programme in the summer ratings period.

Published: 7 Mar 2012