Many game shows have graced the small screen over the years, becoming television staples. Some of the most iconic include The $10,000 Pyramid, Wheel of Fortune, and Family Feud. But another program that deserves to be on the list is Deal or No Deal. The show involves contestants taking risks to obtain a massive amount of prize money. And they are often contacted by The Banker whose identity is kept secret. But did you know the one from the United Kingdom program got theirs revealed recently?
Recap of Deal or No Deal
Deal or No Deal started as a bonus round from a Netherlands game show. The series premiered in 2003, broadcasting across various European countries and Australia. Two years later, a British version debuted with former Saturday Night presenter Noel Edwards hosting. It proved to be a Saturday primetime hit but came to an end in 2016. However, the series returned in 2023 with Stephen Mulhern as the new emcee.
The concept of Deal or No Deal revolves around money-holding briefcases called Mystery Boxes. Contestants pick one and set it aside, thinking it’s the grand prize. Afterward, they opened the rest to reveal how much currency they held. The object of the game is to eliminate the lesser-value prizes and keep the greater-value ones. Everything concludes when the contestant lasts until the end and takes or trades their case. Or they accept the tempting offer presented by the mysterious figure called The Banker.
The British Secret Banker Revealed
The Banker in Deal or No Deal is an unseen figure. Or a shadowy overseer in the U.S. version hosted by Howie Mandel. They play a psychological antagonist, tempting the contestants with the prospect of guaranteed money. This tactic entices players to leave without obtaining the grand prize. It also tests contenders’ greed and adds a sense of suspense for viewers’ entertainment.
In the U.K. show, the Banker’s identity is one of television’s greatest mysteries. But this puzzle has finally been solved after 20 long years. It turns out Glenn Hugill, a soap opera star, is the infamous Banker. He appeared in 86 episodes of Coronation Street as a police detective. In addition to being the Banker, Hugill was Deal or No Deal‘s executive producer.
Hugill served as the Banker during the game show’s initial run from 2005 to 2016. The 2023 reboot has a new person serving as the unseen antagonist. But current host Mulhern swears he knows nothing about who this brand-new Banker is. Perhaps their identity will come to light in another 20 years.
Final Thoughts
It’s intriguing to learn a soap star portrayed the antagonist on Deal or No Deal. I’m not a fan of either show, though the discovery is still mind-blowing. And I honestly did not know there were multiple versions of this game show. I’ve only seen the American variant once, maybe twice, in my lifetime. I do, however, acknowledge the popularity it has gained throughout the years. Perhaps it will receive a future reboot like the U.K. version did two years ago.
