Osman Hands Over Keys

Richard Osman has started his final stretch on House of Games, with Michael Sheen now preparing to become the BBC Two show’s new host.

The presenter and author marked the changeover by posting a picture with Sheen from the studio. Osman explained that his last batch of episodes is being filmed at the same time as Sheen’s first run, with the new era expected to appear on screen in September.

“It’s handover day on #HouseOfGames!” Osman wrote.

Osman has fronted the celebrity quiz format since it began in 2017, turning it into one of BBC Two’s dependable entertainment fixtures. The programme brings together four famous contestants for a full week of games, with daily prizes and a final weekly winner.

His exit was also addressed on The Rest Is Entertainment, the media and culture podcast he presents with Marina Hyde. Osman made it clear that he leaves the series with affection, rather than distance, after nearly a decade in charge.

Long before becoming a familiar TV face, Osman built his career behind the scenes. He spent years in production and later became creative director at Endemol UK. His credits include Deal or No Deal, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Whose Line Is It Anyway?, Total Wipeout, 24 Hour Quiz and Prize Island.

His on-screen breakthrough came through Pointless with Alexander Armstrong. Osman was initially involved during development, but BBC bosses decided to keep him on after seeing how well the partnership worked. He stepped away from Pointless in 2021 to focus on House of Games, podcasting and writing.

His Thursday Murder Club novels have become a major publishing success, selling more than 15 million copies worldwide. The series also moved into film, with a 2025 Netflix adaptation produced by Steven Spielberg, directed by Chris Columbus and starring Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie.

Osman was recently made an OBE in the New Year Honours list for services to broadcasting and literature. Sheen now takes over a format with a loyal audience — and a very familiar set of keys.