On Safari (1)
Synopsis
Bizarre afternoon game show with a jungle-themed studio set. Contestants progress through a number of rounds and get eliminated along the way.
The scores were written on tablets for each team, of which there were two - parent/child combos.
One round we can remember with any clarity is the swamp, were three contestants would progress along their own trail of stepping stones to try and get a bunch of golden bananas at the end. However, on three of the four routes the final stepping stone was loose, hence unlucky contestants fall in the gunge. The round had some aspect that they would win objects to try to cross the swamp with (such as a ladder), or other things that weren't so helpful.
Another round in the early seasons were these huge sponge flowers that were like Venus Fly Traps. In the centre was a jewel. Contestants had to lean in and pull the jewel out, but (oh, no!) two of the three wouldn't release its treasure and would "eat" the contestant. There was also a similar round with mummys in sarcaophogi which would grab the contestants. Another round possibly had them swinging over a pool on a tyre swing.
Later series was later revamped to be a bit more Crystal Maze-ish. They had to build a bridge across the swap etc.
Most noteworthy for the most puntastic catchphrase ever (see below).
Trivia
One hostess was pre-EastEnders (and pre-M17 Junction 5 lay-by) actress Gillian Taylforth.
The 1982 Christmas special featured Lynsey De Paul, Jeanette Charles (Elizabeth II lookalike), Kenny Lynch, Suzanne Danielle, Billy Dainty (vaudeville star), Nicola & Shirley Anne Field, Damian & Melvyn Hayes
Catchphrases
"Safari, so goody!"
Biggins: "Say goodbye, Gillian"
Taylforth: "Goodbye, Gillian".
