University Challenge fans floored over player's admission during 'tense' episode

During tonight's instalment of University Challenge, BBC viewers were left speechless after one member of the Cardiff team, named Danko, admitted she "didn't catch" the start of her question to her teammates as Bristol was at the top of the leaderboard. Host Amol Rajan asked: "What 16th-century monarch is the subject of an 1835 opera by Donizetti? Her religious affiliation contributed in part to her execution in 1587."

Looking panicked, Danko turned to her team and confessed: "I'm going to be honest with you. I didn't catch the start of the question...So..." Not knowing the answer, she stated to the host: "OK, cool. Mary? Queen of Scots?"

Luckily, that was the correct answer, but BBC viewers took to X to comment on the blunder, with one writing: "When someone asks me something in a meeting, I've daydreamed throughout. #UniversityChallenge."

Others commented on Danko's no-nonsense approach to the quiz show as she took it upon herself to act as the team captain - often speaking very directly to her teammates who appeared less confident in comparison.

Someone else said: "Absolutely loving Danko on #UniversityChallenge who is taking no s**t from the lads on her team." Another noted: "Danko is a bit tense. #UniversityChallenge."

Another shared: "If Danko doesn't end up in Project Management, I'll be amazed. #universitychallenge." A fan asked: "Has danko actually answered a question by herself?"

When the episode ended, Bristol had 118 points whereas Cardiff had just 115.

Amol said as he wrapped up the instalment: "Cadiff, it's such bad luck, you never quite got going. But we so enjoyed watching you try to work out answers. You came up with some very inventive ones, even though they were wrong.

"You were up against a very, very strong performance by a brilliant team. Well done Bristol. That was comprehensive and hugely impressive and we shall certainly see you again."

University Challenge is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.