Comic named as one of Richard Osman's replacements

Ed Gamble is to replace Richard Osman as Alexander Armstrong’s sidekick on Pointless.

The comedian is one of six guest co-hosts for BBC One’s hit daytime show announced by the Corporation today.

Sally Lindsay, Alex Brooker, Lauren Laverne, Stephen Mangan and Konnie Huq will also take their places behind the laptop.

Gamble said: ‘I’m presuming someone else has made the joke about having big shoes to fill but I want everyone to know I thought of it as well.

‘I’m over the moon to have a go at co-hosting one of my favourite TV shows ever and I can’t wait to show everyone my impeccable general knowledge (providing I have full access to the internet at all times).’

Gamble appeared as a contestant on the celebrity version of the show two years ago, on a team with Nish Kumar.

Osman has co-hosted the show since its inception in 2009 but recently announced he will step down from all but the primetime celebrity versions.

Armstrong said: ‘This is going to be such a ride! Richard will still be in once a week on Saturdays to make sure everything’s ticking over nicely, but otherwise it’s just me bringing new Pointless friends in and showing them the ropes. Loads of new and fun personalities on the desk next to me. I can’t wait.’

Brooker added: ‘When you think of Richard Osman on Pointless, you think of his charm, wit and intelligence. I’m so proud to think the show have decided to go completely the opposite way with me! I’m so excited to be a part of such a brilliant show and can’t wait to work with Xander.’

Osman has always said the laptop on his desk is merely a prop and is not powered up. But Tamara Gilder, of programme-makers Remarkable Entertainment said that now ‘for the first time ever we are powering up the laptop on the co-host’s desk and turning it on.’

Published: 27 May 2022