It’s great to fill in the blanks again

The busiest man on TV, Bradley Walsh, returns to host a new series of Blankety Blank after its popular one-off last Christmas.

The 61-year-old, who is stepping into the shoes of Les Dawson and Sir Terry Wogan, below, is also host of The Chase and Take Off With Bradley & Holly. And he is filming the festive episode of Doctor Who and The Larkins (a remake of The Darling Buds Of May).

Here, he chats about the highlights of the first full run of Blankety Blank.

How does it feel to bring back Blankety Blank?

It’s a joy to be back. Filming the Christmas special last year was a lot of fun and it felt great to bring viewers a little bit of laughter during a particularly tough year. I love nostalgic telly and Blankety Blank is one of those iconic formats everyone remembers.

Why do you think last year’s special was the most-watched entertainment show across all of the channels on Christmas Day?

Because the show is so legendary and can be enjoyed by the whole family. We’ve had great feedback from viewers, parents and grandparents enjoyed the nostalgia of the show with the return of the theme tune, cheque book and pen and ridiculous questions, and the kids enjoyed filling in the blanks.

What was the highlight of filming this series?

Being back in front of a live studio audience. Audiences always create such a fantastic atmosphere, it’s never quite the same without one. I also had a laugh with the contestants and celebrities on the panel. Pound for pound, Blankety Blank is the funniest show I’ve ever done.

Which celebs guests were the most fun?

We had a return visit from McFly’s Danny Jones, who took part in last year’s special. It feels like playing a parlour game down the pub with Dan – he is really funny. Comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe were like two naughty schoolboys. Joel Dommett, Sue Perkins, Adjoa Andoh, Jimmy Carr and Ore Oduba were all hysterical.