Stephen Mangan, who has been the face of ITV1’s The Fortune Hotel since its 2024 launch, has admitted he might not be the ideal fit for the high-stakes game show.
Speaking on the latest episode of the Table Manners podcast with Jessie Ware and her mother Lennie Ware, the 57-year-old actor and comedian confessed that his compassionate nature makes him ill-suited for the intense reality competition.
“In some ways, I’m the worst person in the world to host something like that,” Stephen said, laughing. “I just don’t like people not getting on.”
The show, which follows ten contestants each given a briefcase — one hiding a £250,000 jackpot, another containing an “Early Checkout Card,” and the rest completely empty — is filled with tension, alliances, and dramatic twists. Contestants compete in strategic challenges to figure out who holds which case, often leading to deception and betrayal.
But for Stephen, who is known for his wit and warm on-screen presence, the backstabbing element of the show is tough to witness. Despite his personal discomfort with conflict, viewers have praised his performance, with many saying his charm brings a refreshing balance to the cutthroat competition.
The Fortune Hotel continues to be one of ITV1’s standout game shows, with Stephen’s self-deprecating humour only adding to the charm — even if he thinks he’s the “worst person” for the job.
