Crystal Maze: Stephen Merchant to host charity comeback

Stephen Merchant said he was 'a huge fan of the original series'

Comedian Stephen Merchant is to host a one-off celebrity revival of 1990s game show The Crystal Maze for charity.

The special comeback will be part of Channel 4's Stand Up To Cancer charity fundraising campaign in October.

Former Doctor Who actor David Tennant had been rumoured as a potential host before Merchant was confirmed.

The cult show originally ran from 1990-95 and was first hosted by Rocky Horror Show creator Richard O'Brien and then Ed Tudor-Pole in its last two years.

Merchant is best known for writing and acting with Ricky Gervais on TV comedies The Office, Extras and Life's Too Short.

He said: "As a huge fan of the original series, I'm honoured to support Stand Up To Cancer by hosting this one-off edition of The Crystal Maze.

Richard O'Brien originally hosted The Crystal Maze on Channel 4 from 1990-93

"Richard O'Brien and Ed Tudor-Pole leave big shoes to fill, but I have size 14 feet, so I'll do my best."

The Crystal Maze saw members of the public tackle a range of physical, mental, skill and mystery timed challenges across four themed zones.

The format was recently revived as an immersive live experience in London thanks to a crowdfunded project.

The celebrity contestants for the new TV incarnation are yet to be revealed.