An Apprentice star has become only the second person to ever score zero points on Channel 4's gameshow Countdown.
Avi Sharma, who was a contestant on Lord Alan Sugar's investment show earlier this year, stunned viewers as he tried to take on the word and number challenge. Contestants work their way through 15 rounds against the iconic clock in the hopes of scoring points. The Channel 4 show is hosted by Colin Murray, Rachel Riley and Susie Dent.
Unfortunately for Avi, he struggled to get any points on the show as he was beat 92 to zero by fellow contestant George Baker. The city banker managed to keep smiling all the way till the end, as host Colin commented: "Now normally you would feel a little distraught having somebody on naught. But I am feeling totally cool about it because Avi is just so much fun, he is so chilled and making the show really good."
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Upon finishing with a total score of zero, Colin said: "I think for you Avi, you just wanted the experience and you just approached it in such a lovely way. It doesn't feel bad. I thought we would be awful, because a lot of people come on and they just really really wanna do well. Whereas I think you have brought along your mate, you are here and you are having a laugh."
Avi added: "No, I am. You know there was a free hotel, I got to see the city of Salford. But look at the end of the day when you are up against George, I think you have got a real talent. I hope you go on to win it."
"I do think it was more about you than George if I am being honest," quipped Colin.
Numbers whiz Rachel Riley said of Avi's attempt: "Didn't win at Countdown, but I think you are going to win at life with this attitude. Just go in smiling and have a go. Love it."
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The only other person to ever score zero points on the show was bar owner Sarah Herbert from West Yorkshire in 2022.
Viewers were quick to share their surprise at Avi's score on social media, as one said: "This Avi guy has come on here to make history, for the wrong reason." Another commented: "Avi should be on ‘Pointless’ as this is pointless. Feel for the hosts and contestant. Very poor." While some questioned if he had done it on purpose, one wrote: "I reckon Avi must have done it for a bet that he could finish on 0 points." "This Avi guy did that on purpose. All his number answers were over 10 out to make sure he scored 0," added another.
Ahead of his stint on The Apprentice, Avi admitted he has previously been an attention seeker. The wannabe businessman who dubbed himself an entrepreneur on social media announced in September that he quit his job in order to "follow his dreams" - admitting he was "NOT put on this planet to climb the corporate ladder, reaching Director." Instead, he's focusing on launching his own presenting career as well as offering public speaking roles.
Avi was also available for coaching and offered an insight on how to "smash your interview" while also "goal setting for winners". The businessman has also released an e-book which he currently flogs for £25 a pop. Avi described himself as a “confident chap” and promised he “can bring a smile to the most miserable face”. The TV star admitted his biggest weakness was that “some say I’m delusional”, although he “prefer[s] the term optimistic”.
The 24-year-old was booted off the show in a double firing by Lord Sugar. When asked if he had any regrets by Metro he said: "I wish I’d taken it a bit more seriously, but then at the same time, I’m happy my personality was able to come through. No real regrets, to be honest."
