Chris Evans reveals he turned down hosting a hit TV series, saying 'Thank God I didn't do it.'
The Virgin Radio Breakfast Show host Chris Evans has revealed the hit TV show he declined to present. During an interview with The Office co-creator Stephen Merchant, the conversation turned to Noel Edmonds, a legendary TV presenter. Chris shared an intriguing anecdote about his early days at the BBC, where he encountered Noel Edmonds, a star he admired.
Stephen recounted, 'I first joined the BBC as a trainee and walked past Noel Edmonds, who was a massive influence on me. I remember thinking, 'What ideas are in that attaché case? I bet there's a Blobby spin-off in there.' I was a huge fan of Noel's work, especially his ability to make Deal or No Deal a long-running, beloved game show.'
Chris Evans then revealed a fascinating twist. He was offered the chance to host Deal or No Deal, a show that Noel Edmonds had made a national phenomenon. However, Chris made a wise decision, stating, 'Thank God I turned it down.'
Stephen's response sparked a humorous exchange. Chris clarified, 'I'm not tooting my own horn here. It's just that fate intervened, and everything worked out as it should. Endemol offered me the job without an audition or pilot, but I never considered it. I wasn't interested, and Noel did it, bringing him back and making him one of my heroes. It's a genius show, and Noel's presentation style is iconic.'
The conversation then took a light-hearted turn as they discussed Noel's unique approach to the show, turning the act of opening boxes into a spiritual journey. Noel hosted Deal or No Deal for 11 years, and the format remained largely unchanged, with contestants opening boxes containing random amounts of money.
The show's enduring popularity led to a 2023 comeback on UTV, with Stephen Mulhern taking the reins. Chris Evans' decision to turn down the offer to host Deal or No Deal is a testament to his foresight and the power of letting opportunities come to you.
