The primary reason there has been no audience on Mastermind is due to Covid protocols. These health and safety measures were implemented to ensure compliance with guidelines during the pandemic.
Impact of No Audience
The absence of a studio audience, necessitated by Covid protocols, has had a notable effect on the show's atmosphere. Participants have observed that the lack of a live crowd gives the entire game an oddly low-stakes feel.
Without the presence of an observing audience, the focus remains intensely on the contestant. During filming, individuals are typically instructed to stare directly into a camera while the iconic Mastermind music plays, reinforcing the solitary nature of the challenge. This change in environment shifts the dynamic of the show, making the experience more about the individual's battle against the questions and the clock rather than their performance for a crowd.
For more insights into the experience of being on Mastermind, you can refer to articles detailing contestants' perspectives, such as this one from The Guardian.
