Quick Read
- Richard Osman’s House of Games airs its ninth season from November 10–14, 2025 on BBC Two.
- This week’s contestants include comedian Vittorio Angelone, TV host Paddy McGuinness, snowboarder Aimee Fuller, and journalist Ria Hebden.
- Vittorio Angelone’s appearance marks a major step from stand-up and social media into mainstream television.
- Daily episodes crown winners; scores accumulate for a Friday champion.
- The show’s relaxed format and organic humor set it apart in the current entertainment landscape.
Meet the Contestants: Comedy, Competition, and Character
When Richard Osman’s House of Games lands on BBC Two each evening, it’s more than just a quiz—it’s a collision of personalities, wit, and the unpredictability that only live competition can deliver. The show’s ninth season, airing November 10 to 14, 2025, assembles a cast that’s equal parts familiar and fresh, promising viewers a week of sharp exchanges and genuine surprises.
This week, the spotlight falls on four contestants: Vittorio Angelone, Aimee Fuller, Ria Hebden, and Paddy McGuinness. Each brings a distinct background to the game’s lively mix—Angelone, the rising comedian whose punchlines often hit close to home; Fuller, a decorated Olympic snowboarder; Hebden, a broadcast journalist known for her entertainment expertise; and McGuinness, the seasoned TV presenter whose comedic timing is as well-honed as his quiz skills.
Vittorio Angelone: From Fringe to Prime Time
For many viewers, Vittorio Angelone may be a new face, but his journey to House of Games is anything but sudden. Angelone’s ascent began in the stand-up comedy circuit, where his unique blend of cultural commentary and self-deprecating humor quickly distinguished him. His latest tour, which includes a performance at London’s Eventim Apollo—a venue that seats 4,000—testifies to his growing popularity beyond social media.
Angelone’s comedic voice is rooted in personal history. His show “You Can’t Say Nothing Anymore” was a highlight of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, drawing praise for its honesty and wit. He mines his Italian heritage and Belfast upbringing for material, weaving tales like that of Victor’s Cafe—his great-grandfather’s ice cream parlour, lost to the Troubles—into routines that are both poignant and hilarious. Angelone’s openness about his own transformation, including notable weight loss, adds another layer to his act, resonating with audiences who see their own struggles reflected in his journey.
Appearing on House of Games is a strategic move for Angelone, whose television exposure has been limited. The show’s format offers him a national platform—one that could translate into increased ticket sales and a broader fan base. For viewers tuning in, it’s a chance to witness a comedian on the cusp of mainstream recognition.
Paddy McGuinness and the Game’s Familiar Faces
Paddy McGuinness, by contrast, arrives as an established figure in British entertainment. Known for hosting programs like “Take Me Out,” “A Question of Sport,” and “Top Gear,” McGuinness brings not just celebrity, but a competitive edge. He’s joined by Aimee Fuller, whose Olympic pedigree brings a different kind of tenacity, and Ria Hebden, whose expertise in entertainment reporting ensures she’s well-versed in pop culture trivia.
The chemistry between contestants is a defining feature of House of Games. Osman’s role as host is both referee and instigator, pushing participants to think quickly, laugh freely, and occasionally reveal more about themselves than they intended. The week’s episodes promise lively banter, unexpected alliances, and the kind of comedic interplay that only happens when the cameras are rolling and the answers are elusive.
Behind the Scenes: The Format and Its Appeal
House of Games isn’t just a test of general knowledge—it’s a showcase for personality. Each episode features quick-fire rounds designed to challenge contestants on everything from geography to wordplay. Daily winners are crowned, but the real competition builds across the week, culminating in a Friday champion. This structure encourages both rivalry and camaraderie, with scores tallied and strategies evolving as the days progress.
What sets the show apart is its tone. The atmosphere is relaxed, the humor organic, and the stakes—while real—never overshadow the fun. Viewers are invited not only to play along, but to invest in the contestants’ journeys. Will Angelone’s outsider perspective give him an edge? Can McGuinness leverage his media savvy for victory? These are the questions that animate each episode.
Impact Beyond the Studio: Comedy’s New Stage
For Angelone, House of Games is more than a competition—it’s a career milestone. The show’s national reach offers a rare opportunity to connect with audiences who may know him only from viral clips or festival buzz. As Radio Times notes, Angelone’s comedic style—marked by cultural exploration and candid storytelling—translates well to the show’s unscripted format.
Meanwhile, the presence of established figures like McGuinness ensures that new talent is measured against the best. This dynamic is central to the show’s appeal: it’s not just about answering questions, but about how contestants handle pressure, improvise humor, and interact with their peers. The result is a viewing experience that’s both entertaining and revealing, offering insights into the personalities behind the public personas.
Why House of Games Matters in 2025
As House of Games enters its ninth season, its enduring popularity speaks to the public’s appetite for accessible, personality-driven entertainment. In a media landscape crowded with high-stakes competition and polished reality formats, Osman’s show stands out for its authenticity. The focus remains on the contestants—their stories, their quirks, and their growth over the course of a week.
For Angelone, this season could mark a turning point. Success on House of Games would not only validate his comedic credentials but also expand his reach at a critical moment in his career. For viewers, the show offers a glimpse into the evolving world of British entertainment, where new voices are constantly emerging and established stars continue to reinvent themselves.
The week’s episodes—airing each night at 6 pm on BBC Two—promise laughter, competition, and the kind of unexpected moments that define live television. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, quiz shows, or simply enjoy watching personalities collide, House of Games delivers.
In a media era that often prizes spectacle over substance, Richard Osman’s House of Games proves that genuine connection—between contestants, viewers, and the stories they share—remains the key to lasting impact. Angelone’s journey from fringe stages to primetime is a reminder that in entertainment, as in life, the most memorable victories are those won with authenticity and heart.