BBC Mastermind viewers were clueless when a contestant 'went missing' minutes after the show started.
The programme, presented by Clive Myrie, 57, usually puts pits four brainboxes against each other.
However on Monday night's show, there were only three contestants - with one empty chair.
Bemused fans, expecting a full house, took to Twitter to find out what was going on.
One said: "I’ve just tuned in, can someone tell me why one of the chairs on #mastermind is empty?"
Another asked: "#mastermind Why is there an empty chair?"
While a third mused: 'The most dramatic OPENING scene of an episode of Mastermind EVER!"
The mystery was eventually explained by Clive, who is a familiar face on BBC news.
Revealing the reason for the guest's absence, he said: "Now, you will have noticed that there are three contenders in the spotlight tonight, rather than the usual four.
"That's because the person in seat two has withdrawn from this programme."
Clive didn't elaborate as to why the person had withdrawn, but fans weren't happy with the newsreader's explanation.
One tweeted: ""Three contestants? Couldn't they find an intern to fill-in?"
While another fumed: "Surely they could have found a late substitute for the missing contender on #Mastermind ? Weak episode."
Clive took over the prestigious presenting gig from veteran broadcaster John Humphrys last year.
John was the fourth presenter of the popular programme, which he fronted for 13 years.
In a nod to the show’s famous catchphrase, John bid goodbye to his role in style, writing: “I started 18 years ago — a very long time in the ephemeral world of showbiz. Now, after more than 750 shows, it really is time to finish.
Speaking of his pride at being passed the prestigious baton, Clive gushed: What a privilege it is to take on this new role. Mastermind with Magnus Magnusson formed the backdrop to my youth and now to be at the helm is a dream come true.
“I'm excited and can't wait to get stuck in.”
A regular presenter of BBC News At Six and Ten since 2010, Clive has previously worked as a correspondent in Asia, Africa, Washington, Paris as well as Brussels.
He has also popped up in a number of other BBC shows, including Have I Got News for You and Would I Lie to You?.
Mastermind is on Monday at 8pm on BBC Two
