Spoilers for 31st August 2026 - Surnames deleted
Posted: Mon Aug 31, 2026 2:53 pm
The first name only policy for contestants takes effect today. This I believe is a permanent change.
This is the reason why:
Hi Philip,
Thank you for taking the time to contact us and noticing the change.
We are using contestants' first names as this is standard practice for most game shows / quiz shows on TV and is in line with our duty of care to contributors.
We hope you continue to enjoy the show and thank you for being a keen-eyed and loyal viewer.
Very best wishes,
The Countdown Team