TUES PM Krypton Factor comes back with new host

Nov 25 2008 By Andrew Jackson

BEN Shephard was confirmed today as the new host of the revitalised Krypton Factor on ITV1.

The 33-year-old will bring the show back to prime-time audiences in January, nearly 14 years after it last appeared in the schedules.

The GMTV Today co-anchor will put a new generation of contestants through the mental and physical tests on "Britain’s toughest game show".

ITV said in a statement: "Away from his day job, Ben is renowned as a sports-mad action man who has twice represented England in Soccer Aid charity matches."

Earlier this year Shephard defeated singer Lemar in a boxing match for Sport Relief.

Shephard has previously worked on programmes including Who Dares Sings and The XTra Factor.

The Krypton Factor was presented by television journalist Gordon Burns during an 18-year run on ITV between 1977-95.

Shephard said: "The Krypton Factor is an iconic UK show and I’m really excited to be picking up the mantle from the legend, Gordon Burns.

"As a kid, I was desperate to have a go on the assault course and make a mess of the puzzles.

"Having said that, considering the makeover the show is having for the 21st century, I’m very glad I’ll be asking the questions not answering them!"