Richard Osman’s House of Games Season 9 Cast List – Names, Roles & Details

The beloved and lighthearted quiz show “Richard Osman’s House of Games” returns for its ninth season on September 29, 2025, on BBC Two. Once again, the show’s creator, Richard Osman, presides as the charming and witty host, putting a panel of four celebrity contestants through their paces with a delightful assortment of games and puzzles. The format remains a refreshing antidote to high-stakes television, focusing on fun, camaraderie, and the gentle teasing of general knowledge gaps in a relaxed, studio-based setting.

Each episode throughout the week sees the same four celebrities compete in a rotating selection of inventive and often comical games dreamed up by Osman. From wordplay and logic puzzles to memory tests and popular culture challenges, the show tests a wide range of skills. The ultimate prize for the daily winner is a coveted “House of Games” trophy, but the real reward is the entertaining banter and the good-natured competition that has made the show a staple of early evening television.

Richard Osman’s House of Games Season 9 2025 cast list

– Richard Osman as Self – Presenter

Richard Osman is a British television presenter, producer, comedian, and bestselling author, best known as the quick-witted co-presenter of the international hit quiz show Pointless. His career in television production and development, particularly for the company Endemol, gave him a deep understanding of game mechanics, which he expertly channeled into creating House of Games in 2017. Osman’s on-screen persona is defined by his warmth, intelligence, and gentle, self-deprecating humor, making him the perfect host for a show that feels more like a fun dinner party than a rigorous quiz.

As the host and creator, Osman is the cornerstone of the show’s success. He not only explains the rules of the often-bizarre games with clarity and wit but also acts as a master of ceremonies for the banter between the contestants. His interactions are filled with clever asides and good-natured teasing, creating a comfortable atmosphere where the celebrities can relax and enjoy themselves. His presence ensures the show remains intellectually stimulating yet effortlessly charming.

– Melanie Bracewell

Melanie Bracewell is a New Zealand-born comedian, writer, and television presenter who has quickly become a popular figure on British panel shows. After moving to the UK, she gained widespread recognition through her appearances on shows like The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice and The Russell Howard Hour, where her sharp, observational humor and relatable delivery won over audiences. Bracewell also co-hosts the podcast Nobody Panic and has written for various comedy programs.

On House of Games, Bracewell’s quick thinking and comedic timing will be significant assets. Her background in comedy suggests she will approach the puzzles with a playful and strategic mind, likely excelling in rounds that require wordplay or lateral thinking. Her presence promises to bring a fresh, energetic, and undoubtedly funny dynamic to the celebrity panel, making her a contestant to watch throughout the week.

– Ruth Madeley

Ruth Madeley is an acclaimed British actress known for her powerful performances and her advocacy for disability representation in the media. She has earned critical praise for her roles in television dramas such as The Rook, Don’t Take My Baby, and the BAFTA-winning series Then Barbara Met Alan. Madeley, who uses a wheelchair, is a prominent voice for inclusivity in the entertainment industry and is celebrated for choosing roles that transcend stereotypes.

Madeley’s intelligence and calm demeanor will make her a formidable contestant on House of Games. While she may be best known for her dramatic work, her appearances on panel shows reveal a sharp wit and a competitive spirit. Her analytical approach is likely to shine in the more logical puzzle-based games, and her presence on the show is a testament to its inclusive and welcoming nature.

– Jenny Powell

Jenny Powell is a veteran English television presenter who became a household name in the 1980s and 1990s as a presenter on iconic shows like Top of the Pops and The Wheel of Fortune. With a career spanning over three decades, she is a familiar and friendly face to British audiences. Powell has continued to work in television and radio, showcasing her enduring popularity and professional versatility.

As a contestant, Powell brings a wealth of experience and a sunny disposition to the panel. Her long career in entertainment, particularly during the heyday of popular culture covered in many of the quiz rounds, gives her a potential advantage in questions related to music and television history. Her cheerful and competitive nature is sure to contribute to the show’s light-hearted and nostalgic atmosphere.

– Mark Steel

Mark Steel is a renowned British comedian, broadcaster, and writer, known for his sharp, left-wing political satire and insightful social commentary. A regular performer on the stand-up circuit, he is also famous for his BBC Radio 4 series The Mark Steel Lectures and Mark Steel’s in Town, where he immerses himself in a town’s history to create a bespoke comedy show. His humor is intelligent, passionate, and deeply informed.

Steel’s presence on the panel guarantees a high level of intellectual rigor and witty repartee. His general knowledge is expected to be extensive, particularly in areas of history, politics, and literature. The interplay between his acerbic wit and Richard Osman’s more avuncular style, as well as with the other contestants, will be a key source of the week’s entertainment, promising clever and engaging television.