Scottish Accountant Becomes First Female Countdown Champion in 26 Years

A Scottish forensic accountant has achieved the title of Countdown champion, marking the first time a woman has won the competition in 26 years. The enduring numbers and words game show, which premiered on Channel 4 in 1982, previously recognized five other female champions, though none had won since the turn of the 21st Century. The final contest on Friday, featuring Fiona Wood of Kinross and Chris Kirby, was closely fought. Ms. Wood, the accountant, secured her victory by accurately solving the concluding conundrum, “lassitude,” which signifies a condition of physical or mental fatigue. Wood stated: “I have absolutely no regrets about applying and would encourage other women to give it a go.” This makes her the sixth female champion of Countdown, a program that has aired on Channel 4 since the network’s inception in 1982. The inaugural Countdown series in 1982 was won by crossword compiler Joyce Cansfield. Subsequently, four additional women claimed victory in the series: Hilary Hopper (1987), Liz Barber (1990), Verity Joubert (1995), and Kate Ogilvie (1998). Wood disclosed that her decision to apply was prompted by an appeal from host Colin Murray for older contestants and an encouragement from lexicographer Susie Dent for more female applicants. Channel 4 reported a significant increase in applications from women subsequent to these calls from Murray, Dent, and mathematician Rachel Riley. Dent, who has been a fixture in the show’s dictionary corner since 1992, commented: “Fiona delighted us all and gave us one of the very best moments in our 42-year history.” She added: “This series also reminded us how much Countdown is a show for everyone, and we would encourage anyone who loves the game to apply.” Last year, Colin Murray assumed the role of permanent host for Countdown, succeeding Anne Robinson, formerly of The Weakest Link. Countdown, an adaptation of the French television program Des Chiffres Et Des Lettres (Numbers and Letters), was initially presented by Richard Whiteley, with Carol Vorderman serving as co-presenter. Other individuals who have served as presenters include Nick Hewer, Des Lynam, Des O’Connor, and Jeff Stelling. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.