Bradley Walsh has revealed that his new Channel 4 gameshow was staged to highlight the tactics used by the gambling industry.<\/p>\n
Million Pound Shot, which aired on Sunday night, was presented as a quiz in which contestants could win \u00a31 million by risking their own money.<\/p>\n
However, the programme took a dramatic turn when one contestant, Reece, appeared to lose thousands of pounds, prompting members of the studio audience to object.<\/p>\n
As tensions escalated, Reece and his girlfriend appeared distressed and were led off stage.<\/p>\n
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Following an advertising break, Walsh revealed that the scenes had been staged, telling viewers: “Everything you’ve seen tonight draws on the techniques used by the gambling industry.”<\/p>\n
The contestants, a floor manager and an audience member who challenged the show\u2019s format were all actors, while the rest of the studio audience had been unaware of the deception.<\/p>\n
Walsh explained that the programme had been designed to demonstrate how gambling companies can encourage people to continue playing and spending money.<\/p>\n
The character of Reece was inspired by the real-life experiences of Patrick, a former teacher who developed a gambling addiction while at university.<\/p>\n
Patrick, who shared his story during the programme, said he had accumulated around \u00a3250,000 in debt over 13 years before placing his final bet in 2018.<\/p>\n
Following the broadcast, Walsh took to Instagram to explain why he had taken part in the project.<\/p>\n
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“I know it was a bit of a shock at first, but this is a vital subject and that\u2019s exactly why I wanted to do it,” he said.<\/p>\n
“A huge thanks to the incredible experts and gambling harm charities who helped shape the show, and to Patrick and (his partner) Charlotte for so bravely sharing their stories.”<\/p>\n
He added: “I hope everyone who watched is feeling okay, and has come away knowing a bit more about the techniques of the gambling industry.”<\/p>\n
Will Prochaska, director of the Coalition to End Gambling Ads, who appeared in the programme, said it had been distressing to watch despite knowing the events were staged.<\/p>\n
“The show depicts the abusive tactics used by gambling companies to get people hooked, and the damage they cause to people and their families,” he said.<\/p>\n
Source: Press Association<\/p>\n