Channel 4 has today announced the recommission of Secret Genius, which will return for an extended run of seven episodes.

Produced by Mothership TV and Channel 4 in collaboration with British Mensa, the first series of Secret Genius saw people from across the country and from different 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.

Hosts Alan Carr and Susie Dent will be back to guide audiences through a fresh set of mindboggling challenges designed to uncover the hidden potential of ordinary people with extraordinary minds. The new series will have more games for viewers to play along with at home and test the smarts of both viewers and contestants in exciting new ways.

On the news of the show’s return, Alan Carr said: “I’m absolutely thrilled Secret Genius is back and to be doing this alongside Susie again! We met people last series with unbelievable brains who had no idea how brilliant they were and watching that penny drop was genuinely magical. This series feels really special – bigger, more playful, and giving everyone at home the chance to join in and maybe discover a bit of hidden genius themselves. I can’t wait to meet our next batch of undercover geniuses… and try to keep up!”

Susie Dent added: “I’m delighted that Alan and I will have a new chance to discover people who have as yet no idea just how special they are. The first series of Secret Genius proved genuinely life-changing for some of our participants, and it was a privilege to see their new-found confidence. I’m already excited at the prospect of witnessing some more incredible minds!”

Kayleigh Mapstone, Executive Director of British Mensa, said: “I’m delighted that Secret Genius is returning for a second series. The first series was exceptionally warm, affirmative and celebratory, and really helped to challenge some outdated perceptions of what intelligence ‘looks like’, as well as opening up some important conversations on the subject.

“We’re very pleased to continue our involvement with the programme, and I can’t wait to cheer on the next group of brilliant brains as they test their mettle against a new suite of Mensa-inspired games.”

If you know someone who you think could be a Secret Genius, casting is open for the second series until Monday 1 June: www.geniuscasting.co.uk