We had therapists on standby': Chris Tarrant on making Who Wants to Be a Millionnaire?
Briefly

The article discusses the origin of the hit game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" The creator, influenced by the radio show 'Double or Quits' and concerned about potential risks, rebranded the concept from 'Cash Mountain.' Emphasizing drama, the show was strategically scheduled at 8pm in a nightly strip format to build suspense around large monetary stakes. The result was immense popularity, drawing attention both locally and internationally, ultimately inspiring numerous global adaptations.
I was responsible for the schedule. I'd listened to Chris Tarrant doing this game on the radio Double or Quits which was brilliant.
I said. Let's call it Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? It's the title of a song written by Cole Porter for the 1956 film High Society.
There was no natural climax. So I thought we should launch it as a strip on every night to maximise the drama.
Then the whole world recognised that what was happening in Britain was quite extraordinary and everybody wanted their own version.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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