Martin Lewis blasted by BBC fans just minutes into Have I Got News For You debut

Martin Lewis admitted he was "petrified" before making his debut on BBC's Have I Got News For You.

By Jennie Buzaglo, Showbiz Reporter

08:33, Sat, Apr 27, 2024 | UPDATED: 08:56, Sat, Apr 27, 2024

Martin Lewis introduces Have I Got News for You

BBC viewers ripped into Martin Lewis as he made his debut on Have I Got News For You. The money saving expert fronted the BBC quiz show which aired on Friday evening (April 27).

On Ian Hislop's team was comedian Ignacio Lopez, while Paul Merton sat alongside TV presenter Steph McGovern. Opening the programme, the 51-year-old wasted no time sharing playful comments on the government's Rwanda policy.

But just minutes into the programme, viewers voiced their opinions as they branded him "cringe" and claimed he was "out of his comfort zone".

One wrote: "Martin Lewis seems to be out of his comfort zone hosting." Another agreed: "I usually like Martin Lewis … but that bit about his own website was just awful … cringeworthy stuff."

Martin Lewis on HIGNFY

Martin Lewis made his debut on Have I Got News For You (Image: BBC)

A third declared: "Try having a laugh Martin Lewis your making the show flat." Meanwhile a fourth said: "The host should be capable of pronouncing the names correctly let alone matching the wit and humour of the other panellists."

Just before Have I Got News For You aired, the Good Morning Britain star admitted he was "petrified" to front the BBC show for the first time.

Taking to X, he said: "OK I've got my flak jacket on, and am preparing to watch from behind the sofa, does anyone know where to buy skin thickener? - as I think I need it.

"I've no idea what'll be in the show, we record for over two hours, so who knows how it'll turn out. A somewhat petrifying experience." After recording the episode, the dad-of-one shared concerns about his debut on social media.

Don't miss...
Martin Lewis issues warning to 365,000 underpaid workers [LATEST]
Martin Lewis details 'lines of division' with wife as he issues divorce warning [LATEST]
Martin Lewis warns ‘under radar change’ by credit card firm could ‘double’ debt [LATEST]

Have I Got News For You panel

Martin Lewis admitted he was "petrified" to front the show (Image: BBC)

He wrote: "Thank to #HIGNFY for having me. Slightly dazed after the recording, not sure how I feel about it all. To be cliched - v much out of comfort zone - hard hold your own against the speed of the brilliant panellists (& having to react to things without my usual filter).

"No idea how it'll be when all edited down. Hope I didn't make a fool of myself (or at least not in a bad way) and you enjoy it. Goodnight."

Fans were quick to reassure Martin as one responded: "I was there! And you were great, sure it will edit even better." Another agreed: "Remember Hislop and Merton have been doing this show for years! They would struggle to present your show!"

A third added: "Aww well done Martin, you are such a lovely, humble man and because of that people will want to watch it. I’m sure you were a great host. Anyhow, the panellists are supposed to be the funny ones."