Stephen Mulhern Returns for ‘Deal or No Deal’ Season 2: ‘We’re Back!’ But So Is the Banker!
Stephen Mulhern made a highly anticipated return as the second season of Deal or No Deal premiered on ITV this evening (October 28), reuniting fans with the iconic red boxes and the infamous banker. Kicking off the season with energy, Stephen greeted fans enthusiastically, saying, “We’re back! But unfortunately the banker is back too! Which can only mean one thing – we are back for a new series!”
The show’s first episode featured contestant Myles, who took the hot seat after appearing in 21 prior episodes as an audience member. In a historic first, Myles became the only contestant to open an all-red first round since Stephen, 47, took over the show. Stephen set the tone for the new season, remarking, “It feels so good to be back, doesn’t it? We’ve got the boxes out of storage so everyone can play the game that’s all about holding your nerve and braving the banker”, via the Express.
In an uplifting moment, Stephen acknowledged contestant Orla’s pregnancy, a revelation that brought a lighthearted exchange, reports The Mirror. “Orla used to be the last one in the bar at the hotel – but I hear that’s all got to change! Orla, do you want to tell everyone the good news?” Orla quipped, “So the good news is I’ve brought someone new with me but you can’t see them!” When asked about cravings, she joked, “Not really, but I would love a glass of wine! Is that really bad?”
Despite the light-hearted moments, Myles’s luck didn’t improve after his challenging first round, and he exited the game with only £50. Mulhern, whose connection with contestants is evident, recently spoke about how rewarding but demanding Deal or No Deal is for him. “It’s possibly the hardest job but the most rewarding job,” he admitted. “You’ve got highs, you’ve got lows, you’ve got people that are there to win money, but over that hour you learn a lot about that one person.”
Reflecting on his career journey, Stephen described the significance of hosting Deal or No Deal, especially given its legacy from previous host Noel Edmonds. “It is the biggest shock to my career because I knew the show was big when Noel Edmonds used to do it,” he shared. With 10 series of Catchphrase and a role on Saturday Night Takeaway, he is no stranger to hosting hit shows, yet he noted that working with Deal or No Deal’s 22 contestants brings unique challenges and rewards.
As Season 2 unfolds, viewers can expect more emotional highs and lows as Stephen Mulhern guides contestants through the tense, nerve-wracking journey of braving the banker on Deal or No Deal.