Getting back on for a second go
- Adam Dexter
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Getting back on for a second go
So... this year marks 10 years since I was on (for those that need reminding, I lost my one and only game to the "Moral Octochamp" Mr Callum Todd on a crucial.
I have applied previously (around the 8 year mark) on the online form, and received no response whatsoever.
I'm wondering the following:
- Should I send a written application?
- Should I mention I've been on before? The form specifically says "Unless otherwise permitted by us at our sole discretion, you must not have appeared in the televised stages of the Programme on any previous occasion" but then there are numerous examples of people who've been on more than once. It's not exactly like I'd be slipping under the radar anyway as surely they'd do a simple search of the name.
- Is 10 years the normal wait time? Seems to be about right from what I've heard.
I have applied previously (around the 8 year mark) on the online form, and received no response whatsoever.
I'm wondering the following:
- Should I send a written application?
- Should I mention I've been on before? The form specifically says "Unless otherwise permitted by us at our sole discretion, you must not have appeared in the televised stages of the Programme on any previous occasion" but then there are numerous examples of people who've been on more than once. It's not exactly like I'd be slipping under the radar anyway as surely they'd do a simple search of the name.
- Is 10 years the normal wait time? Seems to be about right from what I've heard.
ADAM DEXTER: MAXED DATER
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
10 years seems to be the standard method. Definitely apply and you might as well mention that you've been on if there's an obvious place on the form for that kind of thing.
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- Acolyte
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I don't recall there being a place on the form to mention it, but the interviewer did ask whether I'd been on before (and had no problems at all once they realised how long ago it was). So yeah, you'll be fine to apply. And best of luck!
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
By all means reapply - no need to write though, use the internet, it's much easier.
- Adam Dexter
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Thanks. I did do the form online a couple of years ago but didn't get contacted back.Countdown Team wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 7:39 am By all means reapply - no need to write though, use the internet, it's much easier.
Not sure if they're held on file for a certain period or whether I should do another one (if this is even possible?)
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I was told by the production assistant that 10 years is normal, mind you she also told me my opponent hadn't won 5 games previously ![๐](//twemoji.maxcdn.com/2/svg/1f60a.svg)
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- Adam Dexter
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Have put my application in
have put more details than previously so hopefully get a call ![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_e_smile.gif)
![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_e_smile.gif)
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
It seems weird that they wouldn't even respond to some applications. But I think a few people have said that it happened to them.
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- Acolyte
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Good luck Adam! You can't octo i'm afraid though, as the adam - octochamp ratio at co events would be ruined.Adam Dexter wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 11:42 am Have put my application inhave put more details than previously so hopefully get a call
![]()
Just win 7 then win the series from there
glglgl
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
And then one of the 7 you beat can win a series in 10 years timeAdam S Latchford wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 1:28 pmGood luck Adam! You can't octo i'm afraid though, as the adam - octochamp ratio at co events would be ruined.Adam Dexter wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 11:42 am Have put my application inhave put more details than previously so hopefully get a call
![]()
Just win 7 then win the series from there
glglgl
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
just turn up at the studio in the middle of a recording. that worked for getting you on Zoomdown
- Adam Dexter
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Need a haha react for thisdan spinks wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 7:56 pm just turn up at the studio in the middle of a recording. that worked for getting you on Zoomdown
![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Probably a data clash. Sometimes the online app detects malware and viruses but it may be over-sensitive. It stops them coming through if it detects anything remotely controversial.Adam Dexter wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 8:27 amThanks. I did do the form online a couple of years ago but didn't get contacted back.Countdown Team wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 7:39 am By all means reapply - no need to write though, use the internet, it's much easier.
Not sure if they're held on file for a certain period or whether I should do another one (if this is even possible?)
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Gavin Chipper wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 11:45 am It seems weird that they wouldn't even respond to some applications. But I think a few people have said that it happened to them.
The other day you 'thought' we went through players profiles when selecting conundrums.
The only people we don't respond to are the ones who end up winning the series.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Unless no-one reads it....Countdown Team wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 7:39 am By all means reapply - no need to write though, use the internet, it's much easier.
![Rolling Eyes :roll:](./images/smilies/icon_rolleyes.gif)
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Countdown Team wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 8:55 pmThe only people we don't respond to are the ones who end up winning the series.Gavin Chipper wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 11:45 am It seems weird that they wouldn't even respond to some applications. But I think a few people have said that it happened to them.![]()
Ah bummer- that scuppers my chances ;P ;P
- Rhys Benjamin
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Formally, thereโs no chances.
Informally, you can get back on after 10 years.
Even more informally, itโll be on a case-by-case basis (see Zarte Siempre, Glen Webb for ones which were very generous to give them a second go).
How new is this โonline formโ? I distinctly recall posting mine off but even then it still took the team two months to get back to me (this was in late 2014).
Informally, you can get back on after 10 years.
Even more informally, itโll be on a case-by-case basis (see Zarte Siempre, Glen Webb for ones which were very generous to give them a second go).
How new is this โonline formโ? I distinctly recall posting mine off but even then it still took the team two months to get back to me (this was in late 2014).
- L'oisleatch McGraw
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Seems a lot of people were quite unlucky.
I applied, was contacted immediately, passed audition, and was offered a recording slot within the month.
I asked to postpone, as it clashed too much with the run up to the LC exams... also, I was not expecting such a fast turnaround and wanted a little more practise time. Got an extra 3 months. Not sure I'd have octoed without it.
One of my opponents (Game #6), and another person from my series reapplied during 2022 (as they failed to win a show, and 5 years had passed)... but they were told they needed to wait the full 10 years. No special Zarte treatment for them!
I applied, was contacted immediately, passed audition, and was offered a recording slot within the month.
I asked to postpone, as it clashed too much with the run up to the LC exams... also, I was not expecting such a fast turnaround and wanted a little more practise time. Got an extra 3 months. Not sure I'd have octoed without it.
One of my opponents (Game #6), and another person from my series reapplied during 2022 (as they failed to win a show, and 5 years had passed)... but they were told they needed to wait the full 10 years. No special Zarte treatment for them!
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
So for the benefit of everyone who applies/re-applies, can you confirm what the best course of action should be if they don't receive a response to an application? Should they re-submit, contact you guys separately, etc? How long would you say to wait before doing this?Countdown Team wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 8:55 pmGavin Chipper wrote: โSat Jan 07, 2023 11:45 am It seems weird that they wouldn't even respond to some applications. But I think a few people have said that it happened to them.
The other day you 'thought' we went through players profiles when selecting conundrums.
The only people we don't respond to are the ones who end up winning the series.![]()
Re: Getting back on for a second go
I donโt understand why some contestants get another go after 3 or 5 years and others have to wait 9 or 10. This โ10 year ruleโ is inconsistent, woolly and misleading. May as well say you can come back in at least 3 yearsโ time. Are contestants genuinely asked to have another bite at the cherry without them having to actively reapply?
Rules should be applied consistently.
Rules should be applied consistently.
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- Graeme Cole
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
They definitely had some sort of online application route before then. When I applied in 2011 I emailed them my application form, which was a Word document you'd download and fill in.Rhys Benjamin wrote: โSun Jan 08, 2023 2:11 am Formally, thereโs no chances.
Informally, you can get back on after 10 years.
Even more informally, itโll be on a case-by-case basis (see Zarte Siempre, Glen Webb for ones which were very generous to give them a second go).
How new is this โonline formโ? I distinctly recall posting mine off but even then it still took the team two months to get back to me (this was in late 2014).
- Graeme Cole
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Regarding online application vs posting a piece of paper...
There persists this strange superstition that applying for something on paper is "more likely to work" than filling in an online form. This belief is held far more widely than for applications to Countdown or even game shows in general, as anyone whose well-meaning but naรฏve parents have encouraged them "no, don't apply online, hand in your paper CV and job application at the front desk, then they'll remember you!" can attest.
As with many myths, the origin of this one appears to be from a shred of truth from the past which is no longer applicable, like those poorly-researched listicles which still tell you with a straight face that unplugging your TV rather than leaving it on standby "will slash your energy bill".
In the old days, applications for jobs, game shows, and everything else were done by filling in a paper form and posting it. Then in the 1990s-2000s, businesses had to be seen to embrace the new internet age, so they cautiously started publishing email addresses and web forms with which people could submit their applications. An applicant or customer would submit their form by email or website and - in theory - be thoroughly impressed that they were dealing with an organisation which clearly takes technology seriously.
However, in most cases the reality was that behind the web form or email account, the office still operated the same way as it had always done - by pushing pieces of paper around. The only change was that someone would occasionally have to log in to the shiny new computer. These electronically-submitted forms would then be printed out and added to the big stack of paper the rest of the office was used to dealing with, and treated as a paper submission from then on. This made sense at the time - after all, why change your entire business process for an application method only a few people use, when instead you can keep 95% of the old process, saving all the upheaval and having to retrain everyone?
The problem, of course, was that online communication was still a second-class citizen. Sure, the office had a shiny new computer, but this is the late 90s and early 2000s, so an average office would have had some people who were vaguely familiar with computers because their kids played games, a few people who would tiptoe carefully around the computer and nervously back away when someone turned it on, and not many who would actually know how to fetch the online correspondence. So the new-fangled "print out the online applications" step would often get delayed or forgotten. "Oh, you contacted us online? We can't read emails for the next two weeks because Fred's on holiday, can you post us a letter instead?"
And so, the myth took hold. Email is "unreliable"! The "old ways" are the best! Pay your gas bill in cash at the Post Office! Hand in your paper CV at reception! Don't use the online form, they might "miss it"!
The thing is, this was 20 years ago. In that time, most offices have modernised. Every desk in every office has a computer on it. There's no "stack of paper forms" any more, they're all stored electronically. In our example above, it's now the other way round - the paper application is now the second-class citizen requiring extra effort. Someone has to open the envelope and scan or type all the details into the computer where all the other submissions are. And yet, the myths persist.
I have no special knowledge of the Countdown application process - the above is a far more general observation than that. But let's say you're working for a TV production company and you need contestants to fill an upcoming recording block. Do you start opening envelopes one-by-one, or do you browse through the hundreds of applications already on your screen? It's a no-brainer.
There persists this strange superstition that applying for something on paper is "more likely to work" than filling in an online form. This belief is held far more widely than for applications to Countdown or even game shows in general, as anyone whose well-meaning but naรฏve parents have encouraged them "no, don't apply online, hand in your paper CV and job application at the front desk, then they'll remember you!" can attest.
As with many myths, the origin of this one appears to be from a shred of truth from the past which is no longer applicable, like those poorly-researched listicles which still tell you with a straight face that unplugging your TV rather than leaving it on standby "will slash your energy bill".
In the old days, applications for jobs, game shows, and everything else were done by filling in a paper form and posting it. Then in the 1990s-2000s, businesses had to be seen to embrace the new internet age, so they cautiously started publishing email addresses and web forms with which people could submit their applications. An applicant or customer would submit their form by email or website and - in theory - be thoroughly impressed that they were dealing with an organisation which clearly takes technology seriously.
However, in most cases the reality was that behind the web form or email account, the office still operated the same way as it had always done - by pushing pieces of paper around. The only change was that someone would occasionally have to log in to the shiny new computer. These electronically-submitted forms would then be printed out and added to the big stack of paper the rest of the office was used to dealing with, and treated as a paper submission from then on. This made sense at the time - after all, why change your entire business process for an application method only a few people use, when instead you can keep 95% of the old process, saving all the upheaval and having to retrain everyone?
The problem, of course, was that online communication was still a second-class citizen. Sure, the office had a shiny new computer, but this is the late 90s and early 2000s, so an average office would have had some people who were vaguely familiar with computers because their kids played games, a few people who would tiptoe carefully around the computer and nervously back away when someone turned it on, and not many who would actually know how to fetch the online correspondence. So the new-fangled "print out the online applications" step would often get delayed or forgotten. "Oh, you contacted us online? We can't read emails for the next two weeks because Fred's on holiday, can you post us a letter instead?"
And so, the myth took hold. Email is "unreliable"! The "old ways" are the best! Pay your gas bill in cash at the Post Office! Hand in your paper CV at reception! Don't use the online form, they might "miss it"!
The thing is, this was 20 years ago. In that time, most offices have modernised. Every desk in every office has a computer on it. There's no "stack of paper forms" any more, they're all stored electronically. In our example above, it's now the other way round - the paper application is now the second-class citizen requiring extra effort. Someone has to open the envelope and scan or type all the details into the computer where all the other submissions are. And yet, the myths persist.
I have no special knowledge of the Countdown application process - the above is a far more general observation than that. But let's say you're working for a TV production company and you need contestants to fill an upcoming recording block. Do you start opening envelopes one-by-one, or do you browse through the hundreds of applications already on your screen? It's a no-brainer.
Re: Getting back on for a second go
Never take it for granted that you will get another go. You set yourself up to be very disappointed after a long long time of anticipating getting back on.
It's completely up to the discretion of the team and there are so many factors at play.
It's like applying for jobs. Best applicants don't always get the job because businesses need to move quickly and get stuff done. You need to also be in the right place at the right time. Difference of course is that you can apply to as many jobs as you like, but there is only one Countdown!
It's completely up to the discretion of the team and there are so many factors at play.
It's like applying for jobs. Best applicants don't always get the job because businesses need to move quickly and get stuff done. You need to also be in the right place at the right time. Difference of course is that you can apply to as many jobs as you like, but there is only one Countdown!
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Be careful what you wish for!Philip A wrote: โSun Jan 08, 2023 10:26 am I donโt understand why some contestants get another go after 3 or 5 years and others have to wait 9 or 10. This โ10 year ruleโ is inconsistent, woolly and misleading. May as well say you can come back in at least 3 yearsโ time. Are contestants genuinely asked to have another bite at the cherry without them having to actively reapply?
Rules should be applied consistently.
In the early days of this forum, long before any "10 year rule" existed, contestants would occasionally reappear after only a year or two. This was at the production team's discretion. Unfortunately, after a few of these reappearances, some people started to treat getting a second run as a right rather than a privilege, and they would bicker about why so-and-so got another chance when they didn't.
The production team responded to the growing tide of quibbles and re-applications by enforcing a very consistent rule: no more reappearances, ever, except in cases where an adjudication mistake affected the result.
This rule was enforced strictly for a while, then waived for a contestant whose last appearance was 14 years previously (to howls of protest from some!), before eventually settling on the unofficial "10 year rule" which I believe exists now, with a very small number of contestants slipping through that net. Note that even if 10 years have passed, you can reapply but that doesn't guarantee you a place on the show, just as a first-time applicant isn't guaranteed a place on the show.
I've deliberately avoided including names or links to old forum posts - I just want to make a general point rather than dig up old controversies. Countdown doesn't owe you anything, and there's an unpopular but very easy way they could "apply the rules consistently" if they so chose.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Info is here....https://www.channel4.com/4viewers/take-part/countdownMartin Hurst wrote: โSun Jan 08, 2023 10:02 am So for the benefit of everyone who applies/re-applies, can you confirm what the best course of action should be if they don't receive a response to an application? Should they re-submit, contact you guys separately, etc? How long would you say to wait before doing this?
Some of the info states this.....Unless otherwise permitted by us at our sole discretion, you must not have appeared in the televised stages of the Programme on any previous occasion.
We have the right at our sole discretion to add to, delete from, modify or amend these Eligibility Requirements and to select contestants for the Programme. In all circumstances concerning the interpretation and application of these Eligibility Requirements, our decision will be final.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Of course somebody reads it.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Apologies, what I meant was what happens if someone doesn't hear back following applying - do they just assume it has been rejected, or should they follow up in case it wasn't received (which (I think) is suggested what happened to Adam?).Countdown Team wrote: โSun Jan 08, 2023 4:44 pmInfo is here....https://www.channel4.com/4viewers/take-part/countdownMartin Hurst wrote: โSun Jan 08, 2023 10:02 am So for the benefit of everyone who applies/re-applies, can you confirm what the best course of action should be if they don't receive a response to an application? Should they re-submit, contact you guys separately, etc? How long would you say to wait before doing this?
Some of the info states this.....Unless otherwise permitted by us at our sole discretion, you must not have appeared in the televised stages of the Programme on any previous occasion.
We have the right at our sole discretion to add to, delete from, modify or amend these Eligibility Requirements and to select contestants for the Programme. In all circumstances concerning the interpretation and application of these Eligibility Requirements, our decision will be final.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I'd imagine you'd hear either way but i can't be sure, i'll find out.
In any case, after a month i'd email to chase for a progress report.
In any case, after a month i'd email to chase for a progress report.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
So, I got rejected nearly 2 years ago, and 2 months ago as well...
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Not really surprised in fairness...
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I think only Only Connect actually bothers to tell people if they havenโt got through (and that includes before the audition process)โฆCountdown Team wrote: โSun Jan 08, 2023 5:12 pm I'd imagine you'd hear either way but i can't be sure, i'll find out.
In any case, after a month i'd email to chase for a progress report.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
100% this.
As irritating as it is to see the likes of get back on far too soon, when other more deserving contestants have to wait,
a hard and fast rule is only likely to be more restrictive (read: worse) than what we have now.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
The other big thing I will say is donโt reapply too frequently (say, every year or two), especially if you have been on before. That will just make them prioritise new contestants even more IMHO.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Good luck with your application Adam, will keep my fingers crossed for you.
Coming up to 8 years since my solitary appearance and Iโm desperate to get back on. Applied last year but didnโt hear anything so might have to wait for the 10 year mark. Slightly tempted to apply before then but not sure putting in weekly applications, Andy Dufresne in Shawshank style, will do me any good.
Hoping it will happen eventually but might have to be a patient for a bit longer.
Coming up to 8 years since my solitary appearance and Iโm desperate to get back on. Applied last year but didnโt hear anything so might have to wait for the 10 year mark. Slightly tempted to apply before then but not sure putting in weekly applications, Andy Dufresne in Shawshank style, will do me any good.
Hoping it will happen eventually but might have to be a patient for a bit longer.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I do agree with Philip, a more consistent application of the rules would be better.
Given thereโs been more than 200 returnees, of which there were only six in the Richard Whiteley era, might I recommend the rules are changed to reflect this?
Something like โ[โฆ] you must not have appeared in the televised stages of the Programme within the last 10 years on any previous occasion, and longer if you won at least one televised Programme.โ
Edit: slightly spoilerific but given Colinโs comments on Mondayโs show, that โno one is allowed to come on three timesโ, this seems to indicate the rules donโt reflect current practice.
Given thereโs been more than 200 returnees, of which there were only six in the Richard Whiteley era, might I recommend the rules are changed to reflect this?
Something like โ[โฆ] you must not have appeared in the televised stages of the Programme within the last 10 years on any previous occasion, and longer if you won at least one televised Programme.โ
Edit: slightly spoilerific but given Colinโs comments on Mondayโs show, that โno one is allowed to come on three timesโ, this seems to indicate the rules donโt reflect current practice.
- Ian Volante
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I'd suggest that the rules don't need rewritten as they're working pretty well. It's much easier to have a blanket ban, apart from at the discretion of production, rather than having higher expectations across the board.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Agree that the rules don't need rewriting. But it would be good if, when someone does re-apply, they got a response that tells them how long to wait before trying again.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
You were on Series 72 the series I was in, but it is worth it to give it another go.Patrick Thompson wrote: โTue Jan 10, 2023 2:23 pm Good luck with your application Adam, will keep my fingers crossed for you.
Coming up to 8 years since my solitary appearance and Iโm desperate to get back on. Applied last year but didnโt hear anything so might have to wait for the 10 year mark. Slightly tempted to apply before then but not sure putting in weekly applications, Andy Dufresne in Shawshank style, will do me any good.
Hoping it will happen eventually but might have to be a patient for a bit longer.
Tracey 'Old Enough To Be My Mum' Mills aka Crazy Cat Lady and Cat Lover
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Think I was the on penultimate episode of S72 so would have carried over to the next season if I hadnโt been so rubbish.Tracey Anne Mills wrote: โWed Jan 18, 2023 3:18 pmYou were on Series 72 the series I was in, but it is worth it to give it another go.Patrick Thompson wrote: โTue Jan 10, 2023 2:23 pm Good luck with your application Adam, will keep my fingers crossed for you.
Coming up to 8 years since my solitary appearance and Iโm desperate to get back on. Applied last year but didnโt hear anything so might have to wait for the 10 year mark. Slightly tempted to apply before then but not sure putting in weekly applications, Andy Dufresne in Shawshank style, will do me any good.
Hoping it will happen eventually but might have to be a patient for a bit longer.
When I finished filming my episode all the finalists were in the green room (or just arriving). Iโm glad I didnโt know beforehand youโd all be there as I would have been even more nervous.
- Rhys Benjamin
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Well, I was on Series 73 Episode 1, so youโd have probably come up against me, mwahahahaโฆPatrick Thompson wrote: โFri Jan 20, 2023 8:53 amThink I was the on penultimate episode of S72 so would have carried over to the next season if I hadnโt been so rubbish.Tracey Anne Mills wrote: โWed Jan 18, 2023 3:18 pmYou were on Series 72 the series I was in, but it is worth it to give it another go.Patrick Thompson wrote: โTue Jan 10, 2023 2:23 pm Good luck with your application Adam, will keep my fingers crossed for you.
Coming up to 8 years since my solitary appearance and Iโm desperate to get back on. Applied last year but didnโt hear anything so might have to wait for the 10 year mark. Slightly tempted to apply before then but not sure putting in weekly applications, Andy Dufresne in Shawshank style, will do me any good.
Hoping it will happen eventually but might have to be a patient for a bit longer.
When I finished filming my episode all the finalists were in the green room (or just arriving). Iโm glad I didnโt know beforehand youโd all be there as I would have been even more nervous.
Re: Getting back on for a second go
Wonder what the deal is for mediocre octochamps/QFs - would love another crack now I've improved, but suspect more than 10 years would be required.
If I'm still alive and brain still works, I'll pencil in 2035![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_e_smile.gif)
If I'm still alive and brain still works, I'll pencil in 2035
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- Acolyte
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
FWIW, have never really been in favour of people making multiple appearances. Would be far more interested in seeing new talent performing under the spotlight. Personally, would find it a tad inconsiderate towards others presumably eagerly awaiting to make the first appearance.
Re: Getting back on for a second go
Very easy to say if you went on the show and had the success you wanted first time. There's so much luck involved, and some people put in a lot of hard graft. Why not let them retry? It's not as if there's a huge prize pot a stake. Think of how many series champs have been returning players. Tcap, Bevins, McColm, Dinos....samir pilica wrote: โThu Feb 02, 2023 3:57 am FWIW, have never really been in favour of people making multiple appearances. Would be far more interested in seeing new talent performing under the spotlight. Personally, would find it a tad inconsiderate towards others presumably eagerly awaiting to make the first appearance.
I do see the point about it taking away from others though. But hell, watching Kirk Bevins in series 60 is probably the most I've ever enjoyed watching the show.
I think if you've qualified for QFs your hopes of going back on to a normal series are close to 0.
Having said that, it would be quite cool for there to be some sort of redemption mini series (maybe 16p knockout) where some hand picked "much improved" players get the chance to play again.
Another idea if you want to go crazy is to make the first week of each series a "returning contestants week" featuring improved or unlucky contestants. The twist is that the Friday challenger is a previous "Expert" player who retires after 1 game even if they win (most likely a returning series champion). So effectively for any of the returning contestants to make series finals, they would have to beat an expert level player in heats.
Re: Getting back on for a second go
Absolutely this. Countdown needs more new contestants.samir pilica wrote: โThu Feb 02, 2023 3:57 am FWIW, have never really been in favour of people making multiple appearances. Would be far more interested in seeing new talent performing under the spotlight.
Series 78 Runner-up
Re: Getting back on for a second go
I don't think returning contestants are stopping new players - AIUI if a new player applies, they get an audition. If they pass that audition, they get to play.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
There is, room for both surely.Philip A wrote: โThu Feb 02, 2023 8:54 amAbsolutely this. Countdown needs more new contestants.samir pilica wrote: โThu Feb 02, 2023 3:57 am FWIW, have never really been in favour of people making multiple appearances. Would be far more interested in seeing new talent performing under the spotlight.
10 years, is a reasonable length (though it seems a long time for a 60 year old
There is interest in watching former winners, I'm waiting for Kai Laddiman to apply
Cillian and others like him have proven there is room for returnees
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
There have been at least a couple, but a lot longer than 10 years! There was definitely a former octochamp in my series, and didn't Tom play a former semi-finalist?
But yeah, I'd agree that contestants who have made the finals should be bottom of the pile for a reappearance.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
And herein lies the problem with a case by case approach, it creates entitlement.Fiona T wrote: โThu Feb 02, 2023 2:35 pmThere have been at least a couple, but a lot longer than 10 years! There was definitely a former octochamp in my series, and didn't Tom play a former semi-finalist?
But yeah, I'd agree that contestants who have made the finals should be bottom of the pile for a reappearance.
I appreciate the late 2010s may have seen a complete dearth of applications, but given we had a run of several gamechanging returnees which pushed the boat out, the rules as written don't really bear any resemblance to reality right now.
- as soon as Marcus Hares reappeared the door was suddenly open to people to won their first game (some may say "Bruce Lambert" at this point but he was only 12 in his first run so this wasn't a gamechanger);
- when Glen Webb reappeared the door was suddenly open to quarter-finalists;
- when Chris Feetenby reappeared the door was now presumably open to losing semi-finalists;
- Zarte was a 5-time winner let back on less than 5 years after losing to Dylan Taylor;
- Anthony Jenkin was the first octochamp to have a second go...
Re: Getting back on for a second go
It doesn't at all. FTOAD I think it's very unlikely they would allow me back for a second crack - and if they did it would probably be so long that I'd be dead or doolally. Fun to hope thoughRhys Benjamin wrote: โFri Feb 03, 2023 12:31 am
And herein lies the problem with a case by case approach, it creates entitlement.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I sort of raised this when I went to watch the CofC16 finals, after a prompt from a cameraman. I wasn't told definitely no, but I got the impression it was a non-starter for myself as a losing Q-F.
I guess that if Countdown had a noticeable revision of format that would give more scope to invite back any contestant. That said, to my knowledge CD was only ever revised once, from the nine to fifteen round format. I quite like some of the rounds in the French version.
I guess that if Countdown had a noticeable revision of format that would give more scope to invite back any contestant. That said, to my knowledge CD was only ever revised once, from the nine to fifteen round format. I quite like some of the rounds in the French version.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
next week we will get a 6th? member of the triple appearance club
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Some things to consider. Not every returnee has been honest when asked on the application form about 'previous TV appearances'.
We have a changing research team who don't know the past contestants in the same way i do, so it's inevitable that some will slip through the net.
We've even had people use different names 2nd time around to avoid detection.
Basically, there's no rule as such. If you came onto the show a decade ago and were hopeless, or an asshole, or even a hopeless asshole, then there's little chance of having a second bite. I'm dead against multi-winners taking part again unless it's been for decades. Yes there have been exceptions, but lessons have been learned.
Ultimately, i'm massively in favour of new contestants, and if you take part once and don't achieve what you hoped, then it's too bad.
Peace.
We have a changing research team who don't know the past contestants in the same way i do, so it's inevitable that some will slip through the net.
We've even had people use different names 2nd time around to avoid detection.
Basically, there's no rule as such. If you came onto the show a decade ago and were hopeless, or an asshole, or even a hopeless asshole, then there's little chance of having a second bite. I'm dead against multi-winners taking part again unless it's been for decades. Yes there have been exceptions, but lessons have been learned.
Ultimately, i'm massively in favour of new contestants, and if you take part once and don't achieve what you hoped, then it's too bad.
Peace.
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- Acolyte
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
They're a sneaky pair are Kostadinos Sfyris and Matt CroyDame Eadie wrote: โFri Mar 17, 2023 9:00 pm
We've even had people use different names 2nd time around to avoid detection.
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- Tracey Anne Mills
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Crimewatch most wanted !!Steve Hyde wrote: โFri Mar 17, 2023 10:51 pmThey're a sneaky pair are Kostadinos Sfyris and Matt CroyDame Eadie wrote: โFri Mar 17, 2023 9:00 pm
We've even had people use different names 2nd time around to avoid detection.![]()
Tracey 'Old Enough To Be My Mum' Mills aka Crazy Cat Lady and Cat Lover
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Hopeless and useless, I resemble that remarkDame Eadie wrote: โFri Mar 17, 2023 9:00 pm Some things to consider. Not every returnee has been honest when asked on the application form about 'previous TV appearances'.
We have a changing research team who don't know the past contestants in the same way i do, so it's inevitable that some will slip through the net.
We've even had people use different names 2nd time around to avoid detection.
Basically, there's no rule as such. If you came onto the show a decade ago and were hopeless, or an asshole, or even a hopeless asshole, then there's little chance of having a second bite. I'm dead against multi-winners taking part again unless it's been for decades. Yes there have been exceptions, but lessons have been learned.
Ultimately, i'm massively in favour of new contestants, and if you take part once and don't achieve what you hoped, then it's too bad.
Peace.
I may have to change my name.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I think the key thing is don't apply until you're ready.
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I don't think people on the whole apply unless they feel ready I would have thought.Dame Eadie wrote: โSat Mar 18, 2023 9:48 pm I think the key thing is don't apply until you're ready.
But hindsight is a wonderful thing
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- Adam Gillard
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I wasn't "ready" when I applied, in the sense that I hadn't been on apterous for very long and I was an average player. I was ready however to go on TV and have fun, which the previous contestants frequenting apterous had encouraged me to do. I had a big gap between recording heats and recording finals though, during which I played a ridiculous amount of apterous so then I was "ready" in the sense of having done as much practice as I wanted.Marc Meakin wrote: โSun Mar 19, 2023 5:41 pmI don't think people on the whole apply unless they feel ready I would have thought.Dame Eadie wrote: โSat Mar 18, 2023 9:48 pm I think the key thing is don't apply until you're ready.
But hindsight is a wonderful thing![]()
Mike Brown: "Round 12: T N R S A E I G U
C1: SIGNATURE (18) ["9; not written down"]
C2: SEATING (7)
Score: 108โ16 (max 113)
Another niner for Adam and yet another century. Well done, that man."
C1: SIGNATURE (18) ["9; not written down"]
C2: SEATING (7)
Score: 108โ16 (max 113)
Another niner for Adam and yet another century. Well done, that man."
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- Acolyte
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
I dunno. I think people feeling ready means very different things. I was ready to go on when I did - just wanting to go on and have a bit of fun and escape lockdown for a bit. Obviously I was nowhere near the level i could get to when I did it but it doesn't mean I wasn't ready.Marc Meakin wrote: โSun Mar 19, 2023 5:41 pmI don't think people on the whole apply unless they feel ready I would have thought.Dame Eadie wrote: โSat Mar 18, 2023 9:48 pm I think the key thing is don't apply until you're ready.
But hindsight is a wonderful thing![]()
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
Well I think some people don't know about Apterous etc. when they apply so consider themselves ready, and then find out and suddenly they're not ready any more. Though having said that, in 2023 I find it hard to believe that people aren't aware people are doing things beyond just watching the show to reach the levels we now see.
Re: Getting back on for a second go
If I'd found apterous before I applied I'd never have felt ready! Glad I went on when I did - had zero expectations, so was delighted with a teapot, and never even contemplated 8 wins (hence the recycled outfits!). I'd love another go, but mainly cos the whole experience was great fun, not because I think I'd do better - I'd probably spot better words, but could well lose game one - plenty of players better than me don't have a teapot!
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Re: Getting back on for a second go
The two days of filming heats were, even now, probably the best two of my life. There was no expectation, only a small amounted of self-inflicted pressure (certainly made up for that later on), a receptive actual audience, a bunch of fun stories/coincidences, the fun of new experiences, and, moreover, the thrill of how unexpectedly well it all went. It wasn't a part of my life; it was a thing I was doing on a whim, and only afterwards did it become what it did. I would dearly love to relive those days, the naivety of youth, the freedom from measuring self against others, the making of new friends and dropping some ad-hoc decent lines on telly. But you can't really relive them, since it was all a product of unrepeatable circumstances. The novelty is gone, the audience is gone, the lack of expectation is definitely gone. So perhaps to some it'd be worth exploring how much of the desire to have another go is chasing nostalgia (which, tempting though it is, never really works in life), versus a desire to actually do better (which, hey, me too, but no one is owed that).
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