The iconic ITV game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? has been entertaining viewers since its debut in 1998. Now, Amy Helliwell, a tourism officer from Stroud, offers a firsthand glimpse into what it’s really like to sit in the famous hot seat—and what host Jeremy Clarkson is like behind the scenes.
Amy stepped into the spotlight in May 2025, about a year after applying and six months post-filming her episode. She made it all the way to the £125,000 question but, unfortunately, answered incorrectly, leaving with the guaranteed £32,000 prize.
Despite the pressure, Amy’s experience with Clarkson, who has hosted since 2018, was notably positive. Speaking to online betting site Slots Temple, she described him as “so reassuring and really lovely, almost like dad energy,” emphasizing how he made the environment comfortable and relaxed.
One surprising fact Amy shared was Clarkson’s height. Standing nearly 6ft herself, she noted the elevated chair helped maintain eye contact, but he still towered above. She imagined contestants shorter than 5ft 8ins probably need steps to reach the seat.
Her nerves kicked in only when it was her turn to sit down. “I could feel my leg shaking,” she admitted. However, once under the studio lights, with the audience present, she found the atmosphere easier, likening the interaction to “just having a conversation with [Jeremy] and chatting through some really random questions.”
Amy confirmed that the live experience closely matches the televised version. “It was a bit surprising, but honestly, the show is incredibly similar to what you see on TV. The only differences were small—like the screen looking a bit different during a ‘phone a friend.’”
She also revealed that the studio itself is smaller than it appears on screen, with a more intimate audience size, which likely contributes to the show’s polished feel.
Interestingly, contestants must follow specific wardrobe rules to avoid issues with the cameras. Amy had to cover her tattoo sleeves due to copyright and was encouraged to wear bright, jazzy clothing—although she joked about being stuck with her “most hideous jazzy shirt.” Shoe selections had to be plain too, to avoid visible logos.
For potential contestants, Amy shared insight into the application process, describing it as lengthy and competitive. There were three to four interviews spread across several months, alongside forms and declarations, with no guarantee of selection.
She believes the casting team seeks a balance: quiz skills and a friendly, relatable personality to connect with Jeremy Clarkson and the audience—and it’s only a few weeks before filming when contestants finally get the call to take the hot seat.