University Challenge's Christmas Special Cancelled Amid Complaints of Lack of Support for Disabled Contestants

Producers Apologize and Episode Will No Longer Air

The Christmas special of the popular quiz show University Challenge has been cancelled following complaints that the producers did not adequately support disabled contestants. The BBC and Lifted Entertainment, the production company behind the show, apologized for the incident.

Blind Contestant's "Distressing" Experience

One blind contestant on the show had a "distressing" experience while participating on behalf of their former university. They had requested audio description support in advance, but were told it was not possible during a picture round that included a pie chart and maps. Their neurodivergent teammate had also been denied subtitles in advance of the recording.

Feelings of Overwhelm and Overstimulation

Despite facing these challenges, both contestants chose to proceed with the quiz. However, they admitted feeling "overwhelmed and overstimulated" by the experience. The blind contestant expressed their preference to not have their disability highlighted on network TV in the lead-up to Christmas.

Commitment to Inclusivity

The BBC has decided to scrap the Christmas episode and has promised to make the show more inclusive in the future. University Challenge, hosted by Amol Rajan, airs on BBC Two on Mondays.

Amol Rajan took over as the presenter of University Challenge in July 2023.