BBC Revives Televised Chess with Chess Masters

In an exciting development for chess enthusiasts, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has announced a new competition format, “Chess Masters”, set to air on BBC Two and iPlayer in 2025. This news comes over 40 years after the popular show “The Master Game” graced our screens, running for seven series from 1976 to 1983.

“Chess Masters” will span eight episodes, featuring passionate and highly skilled players from diverse backgrounds. They will engage in a series of rapid chess games, with the ultimate goal of being crowned the Chess Master.

Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning for Factual Entertainment and Live Events at the BBC, expressed her excitement about the new show. She highlighted that in a market dominated by competitions celebrating physical feats, “Chess Masters” will instead focus on strategy and smart thinking.

Chess has seen a significant resurgence in popularity, becoming the fastest-growing sport globally. It was the most-watched game on Twitch in 2021 and the most-downloaded app from the iPhone store in February 2023. With over six million regular players in the UK and 605 million adults playing worldwide, it’s clear that chess is experiencing a global renaissance.

Camilla Lewis, Executive Producer at Curve Media, shared her delight in developing “Chess Masters” with the BBC. She emphasized the inclusivity of the show, stating that amateurs aged 8 to 80 will have the opportunity to compete with the best, offering viewers unique insights into the psychological and practical aspects of this age-old game.

Malcolm Pein, Director of International Chess and External Relations at The English Chess Federation, also expressed his enthusiasm, stating that the chess community has been eagerly awaiting the game’s return to our screens for over three decades.

If you think you have what it takes to be a Chess Master, the show is looking for chess players of all ages and backgrounds. You don’t have to be a professional; anyone with a passion for chess can apply.

So, whether you’re a seasoned chess player or a newcomer to the game, “Chess Masters” promises to be an entertaining and accessible series for all. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new addition to televised chess!

Meanwhile, if you’re eager for some classic chess content, you can re-watch seasons 6 and 7 of “The Master Game” on the @BBCTheMasterGame YouTube channel. Enjoy the nostalgia and get ready for the new era of televised chess with “Chess Masters”!