Countdown

Colin Murray, Rachel Riley and Susie Dent present the show, joined by Mel Schilling in Dictionary Corner. Contestants race against the clock, pitting their wits on words and numbers as they strive to solve each challenge within the time limit.

The broadcast scheduled for 13 February 2026 is a television programme presented as an episode of a game‑show style format. Classified under the genre of episode, the show brings together a panel of presenters who guide the action. It is structured as a timed competition where participants are challenged to solve puzzles that combine linguistic and numerical elements. During each segment, contestants are put under pressure to answer as quickly as possible, racing against the clock. Their task is to match their intellect against a series of clues that involve both words and numbers. The fast‑paced nature of the game demands quick thinking and sharp recall, turning each round into a test of mental agility. The hosting duties are shared by Colin Murray, Rachel Riley and Susie Dent, who introduce the challenges and keep the flow of the show. Assisting from the Dictionary Corner is Mel Schilling, who provides authoritative commentary on the language‑based aspects of the game. Together, the team creates a lively environment where the contestants' wits are constantly tested against the dual demands of vocabulary and arithmetic. Each round is timed, so the clock becomes a central element that adds tension and urgency. The combination of word‑play and arithmetic ensures that both language lovers and maths enthusiasts find the challenges engaging, while the presenters keep the pace lively.