We’re delighted to announce the launch of Secret Genius, a brand-new series produced in collaboration with British Mensa, which begins on Channel 4 next Sunday, 1 February at 9pm.
Over six episodes, comedian Alan Carr and lexicographer Susie Dent unearth the hidden potential in ordinary people with extraordinary minds who have never had their raw brainpower recognised. They may have been overlooked by the school system, or their families, and have often gone through life feeling misunderstood and dismissed.
Consisting of four regional heats, adults of all ages and from all walks of life descend on Genius HQ to take on a series of epic, immersive intelligence games based on the challenges Mensa uses to measure IQ. From mind-boggling memory and fluid reasoning challenges set in a sweetshop to deciphering an enormous wheel of words, the games are clever and unpredictable – with Alan and Susie providing their signature wit, smarts, and playful commentary throughout.
Alongside the brainteasers, viewers meet the contestants: a tree surgeon with four GCSEs, a shepherd who taught her sheepdog sign language, a delivery driver with an uncanny memory for faces, a village pharmacist nicknamed “Sherlock”, a prison chaplain, an ambulance crew member, and many more. Through laughter, nerves, and sometimes tears, each person shares their story, revealing why this competition matters and how intelligence can hide away undiscovered if the conditions aren’t right for it to shine.
The top 12 contestants from the heats earn a place in the finals at Oxford University, where they face even more painfully difficult challenges. Friendships are forged, confidence blossoms, and in the final episode, the last four go head-to-head to crown Britain’s first Secret Genius.
Kayleigh Mapstone, Executive Director of British Mensa, said: “Secret Genius is an incredible opportunity to put Mensa in front of a whole new audience and to challenge perceptions of what intelligence looks like. The show is incredibly warm and affirmative, and it’s fantastic to see intelligence being celebrated – as it should be!
“For many of the people we meet on the show, taking part sparks a journey of self-discovery and, for some, a rethinking of their futures. I think this will resonate with many of our members and I hope they will enjoy watching the show and following the contestants’ progress.
“The series also has the potential to inspire future Mensa members to explore their own abilities and discover our welcoming and vibrant community. I, for one, can’t wait to see the contestants in action and the difference the show will make.”
Secret Genius begins on Sunday 1 February at 9pm on Channel 4, with the second episode following on Monday 2 February at 9pm, before continuing on Sunday evenings at 9pm.
Image credit: Jack Barnes / Channel 4
