BBC Only Connect hit with complaints as huge 'distraction' sparks fan fury

BBC quiz show Only Connect is known for its brain-busting questions and serious tone - but Monday night's episode left viewers more puzzled by the wardrobe choices than the puzzles. Fans flooded social media after contestant Pam appeared on screen in a fluorescent pink suit, seated directly in front of a similarly pink-toned background - creating a visual clash that many branded downright distracting. Some fans even called for a dress code, claiming the garish outfit completely overshadowed the game.

"Surprised the costume team allowed that pink suit against that background," one viewer fumed on X. Another said: "I find the outfits on this show to be so over the top sometimes and it's a bit distracting. They should have a wardrobe policy or something?" Others kept it short and sharp: "TOO MUCH PINK," one user shouted online, while another asked: "Jeez, has something gone wrong with my colour balance??"

The incident came just as Only Connect returned for a brand-new series, with host Victoria Coren Mitchell back at the helm.

The BBC show challenges teams to unravel connections between seemingly unrelated clues - but this week, it was the contestant's bold fashion choices that had audiences making connections of their own.

Victoria recently spoke to Radio Times about her years on the show and the more memorable feedback she's received.

One bizarre critique has stuck with her: "I've never forgotten a letter from a few years ago. We get all sorts of feedback - be it on a translation, or a clarification of parliamentary procedure.

"This chap asked, 'Why is it acceptable for Victoria Coren Mitchell to comment on a man's bottom?' I'm not even sure I had."

Despite the occasional complaint, Victoria remains one of Britain's most admired quiz hosts. She admitted she has to avoid watching other game shows, especially Countdown.

She admitted: "I love Countdown so much, I can't let myself watch it. I get obsessed and start making anagrams out of car number plates."

And while she shines as a host, Victoria says guest appearances are a different beast entirely.

"Hosting Have I Got News for You is one of my favourite things to do. Everyone is brilliant, from Ian Hislop and Paul Merton and their genius executive producer, to the graphics people in the gallery who are like mind readers.

"Guesting on it is an honour, but terrifying because you don't know what's coming up, so you always think you'll fail to recognise a cabinet minister and look like an idiot."

When asked which presenter she admires most, Victoria didn't hesitate: "My best friend Claudia Winkleman is warm and funny, idiosyncratic but relatable, brilliant but unintimidating. I don't expect to see a better TV presenter in my lifetime."