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The Coughing Scandal: Behind the Million Pound Quiz
1 Feb
Summary
- Dramatisation details the creation of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?
- It covers the infamous 'coughing major' scandal.
- Michael Sheen portrays Chris Tarrant accurately.

A captivating three-part drama, released in 2020, delves into the remarkable story behind the groundbreaking quiz show, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?. Launched in 1998, the program was a phenomenon, being the first to offer a million-pound prize on UK television.
The series chronicles the show's inception, conceived by a group of confident television executives. It also vividly reconstructs the infamous 'coughing major' scandal that became a national talking point.
Actor Michael Sheen offers a strikingly accurate portrayal of presenter Chris Tarrant. Matthew Macfadyen stars as Major Ingram, the central figure in the scandal. Directed by Stephen Frears and written by James Graham, the drama unfolds at a brisk pace, successfully balancing tension with an accessible viewing experience.




