She's great! Maybe this will get the pendulum swinging away from the political correctness that bogs us down

Tom, USA

I absolutely love the show! The questions are much more intellectually challenging than Millionaire or other US game shows.

As for Anne, I find her a breath of fresh air from Regis or Alex Trebek. Anne's dry humour and cutting remarks are funny and are all in good fun, even if some of the contestants don't view them as such. I really don't see what the controversy is about.

And her accent isn't at all hard to understand, no less clear than Regis or Judge Judy, who by the way is worse than Anne by far!
Andy, USA

A bit shocked at first but now really enjoying the show. More fast-paced than "Who wants to be a Millionaire" and on Wednesday's show, some of the contestants were actually smiling at Anne's caustic remarks. It's just a lark really.

Fond memories of "Points of View" some years ago with Anne's pleasant face and humorous comments. Good on you Anne.
Marion Andrew, Canada

She's great! Maybe this will get the pendulum swinging away from the political correctness that bogs us down.

Where did they dig up these idiots though? It has convinced me to send my son to private school.
Tom O, USA

Lighten up people! It's just a show, meant to entertain, and Anne is an entertainer. If you don't like her, don't watch her show.

As for the people who are bitter when they are voted off, the odds were 7 to 1 against them winning. What did they expect.

Finally, having lived in the UK and watched the show there a few times, I was always surprised by how low the winnings were, usually around GBP 2000. The lowest jackpot so far in the US has been around $35,000. It's much more interesting to watch with the higher stakes!
Cal, USA

Hi British cousins! We love you, but you can keep Anne Robinson. She's obnoxious.
Kim Righetti, USA

It is a truly sad day when antagonism, cynicism, spitefulness, and rude behaviour are exported by the English to the United States

Reverend James C. Lovette-Black

It appears people are taking Anne Robinson too seriously. It's just typical British wit ratcheted up several notches. As an American, I'm put off not by Ms Robinson but by the apparent stupidity of the players. Sad reflection of our educational system here. To all you complainers about Ms Robinson - get a life!
James Duke, USA

As for the hostess, I think she'll be a flash in the pan here in the States. There seems to be at least one contestant in each episode who can't understand her accent. One got genuinely flustered when asked the location of the Kentucky 'Darby' (we don't pronounce it that way over here).

Overall, I find the show extremely annoying, rude, and designed to foster bad relations between contestants. 'Millionaire' is much more fun to watch, and Regis will be around long after Anne and her black trenchcoats hop the flight back to the UK.
Robert Hansen, USA

I feel so sorry for all those Americans who wouldn't mind if Anne Robinson, dressed in tights and a cape, were firing a machine gun and mowing down dozens of people in one go every few minutes.

But they are all queasy and upset when she treats uninformed contestants with disdain. How mean and vicious!

It's good to see a quiz show that dares to ask questions about something other than TV shows and shopping.

It's too bad that so many Americans feel it is unfair to demand more of them than the disgusting Regis.
Lee Zaslofsky, Canada

It is a truly sad day when antagonism, cynicism, spitefulness, and rude behaviour are exported by the English to the United States.

After all, that is what the USA is used to doing, is it not? There is enough misery in our world without Ms Robinson adding to it. Whatever happened to civility, courtesy, and pleasant socialising? Oh, that's right - it does not make money.
Reverend James C. Lovette-Black, USA

The Weakest Link is the best game show on American television. Anne is fantastic - it's about time someone was brutally honest with people who are neither clever nor smart.

She should be the model upon which all schoolteachers in the substandard US school system should be based - firm and uncompromising in her quest for perfection, yet gives praise when praise is deserved.
Alan, USA

I had an employee ask me today if Anne Robinson was related to Margaret Thatcher because they "look and act very similar". I think the Americans still have that soft spot for a British iron lady

James Bishop, USA

The Weakest Link fits in perfectly with US television's fascination with accommodating the lowest common denominators - humiliation and meanness. This show must be the UK's vengeance for our classy exports like Baywatch and Jerry Springer.
Michael Sundquist, USA

The Americans don't know what's hit them. To date, their home-grown gameshow hosts have been over-cheerful and on the side of the contestants, Anne Robinson has turned that on its head.

Her performance is a bit more measured than in the UK. She makes sure she pronounces her speech perfectly. Occasionally she is asked to repeat a question.

But as she said last night, "Is there no beginning to your knowledge.....you are the weakest link. Goodbye!" Long may she reign.
Simon Gleed, USA (British)

It is stupid for the BBC to call The Weakest Link a success only after two nights (does one swallow make a summer?) Wait for a few weeks. A lot of people have watched it for novelty value and many will tune off eventually.

The programme has an interesting format but I can't see how Anne Robinson can make it here.

Americans hate Brits in general - her accent is hard to follow, she seems out-of-touch with Americana. She seems like a frustrated schoolmistress. Perhaps a different American host can make this a success.
Jay Sinclair, USA

I think she's great. Everyone that I've spoken to over here is watching the programme. Anne Robinson has always been a great presenter at home, I grew up watching Watchdog, and yes, she was forthright and strong, but I thought she was doing a wonderful job. Watch out America - the show will do really well and so will she!
Marie, USA

As an expat living in Philadelphia, I thought I had escaped that awful women. Imagine my suprise this morning when I heard people talking about it! There were mixed reviews but they were generally good! Do I have to move again to avoid that dreadful presenter?
Ben Fraser, USA

Well, I'm an expat now living in Mississippi. I think it's great to have The Weakest Link on over here. I caught the show a few times while back in Britain over Christmas and became instantly hooked.

I had an employee ask me today if Anne Robinson was related to Margaret Thatcher because they "look and act very similar". I think the Americans still have that soft spot for a British iron lady!
James Bishop, USA

It is interesting to see some outcomes: some team players who did not do well at the beginning ended up winning, some opportunists went all the way to the end without really a merit on their score, some folks who did very well were discarded by their team members, based on what?

On the negative side, I saw prejudice played out on the spot: blacks and women (in that order) seemed to be considered a weak link regardless of how well they performed. Not new, it just exposes the ills of American society and stereotypes. It is a great game in that sense.
Dieudonne Mayi, USA

I love her! She's scary and hilarious. I have yet to speak to anyone who doesn't like her. Granted, I'm not sure I'd like to be a target of her barbs, but it sure is fun to see others get theirs! I think the show is in for a long run in America.
Paul Evans, USA

I hope this import is soon rejected and returned to sender.
Anne Wynn, USA

Ms Robinson and the Weakest Link blow Millionaire and Jeopardy out of the water. She is more charismatic than the other TV hosts. Her wit is a welcome change from the boring dialogue that the other two men try to come up with to interact with the contestants. Hurrah for the new British import.
Marisela, USA

I just don't like her. She is abrasive and unattractive. Who needs that? Even Regis gets old after a while, though he is funny and one gets acquainted with the contestants. On this show they are wooden and freeze at the simplest questions.
Agnes Fair, USA

Sarcasm at its highest, most sophisticated level yet. Here's to another British invasion - are there more where she comes from?

Tom Nixon, USA

I watched The Weakest Link last night and really enjoyed it. Robinson was cruel without being vicious and I really enjoyed her dry sense of humour.

The pseudo-dominatrix clothes that she wears are funny and the show is fast paced and interesting.
Shawna Lanne, USA

All I can say is that it's about time. For months we've had to deal with Regis Philbin's annoying taglines and fashion wear, and Jeff Probst of Survivor.

Sarcasm at its highest, most sophisticated level yet. Here's to another British invasion - are there more where she comes from?
Tom Nixon, USA

I have been watching the show for the past three nights, and I really don't understand what all the controversy is about.

We Americans are used to the idea of rudeness on TV. Have the people already forgotten about Judge Judy? She can be as vile and cruel as Anne.

But I'd much rather see Judge Judy host Weakest Link over Anne by far.... at least we can understand her New York accent!
Cam, USA

She is hideous. The worst programme on American TV. I just wanted someone to know she is terrible, horrible and should never be put on TV.
Ari McDonald, USA

The UK version of the show was on the whole more balanced: Anne Robinson's remarks were made to contestants who were generally reasonably fair to each other - competitive and no doubt upset at having 'done the walk', but still fair.

With the US version, many of the contestants come away with the view that they were vehemently unhappy with being voted off, saying how wrong and unjust it all was.

This to me affects the balance; add the contestants' vitriolic statements to Anne's own and the whole show takes on a darker, far more unsettling hue.

I'm not surprised it's a hit now. A long term success though? Personally, I doubt it. It's a novelty for the Americans to have this kind of show but I fear that the sheer negativity of it will eventually wear the audience figures down.
Rachel Heath, USA

I'm also a Brit who lives in the USA and all I can say is, whatever we've done, I apologise. Take Anne Robinson back please!

Rob, USA

I watched one of the early US shows with interest, after all the hype that had surrounded it. Frankly, I found it rather boring! So much for saving American TV!

The phrases, dismissals and put-downs get repetitive very quickly, and it did all seem very contrived. The ad breaks probably don't help because it is hard to maintain tension across them.

I really wasn't impressed. The best part was the contestants being bitchy about each other after they got voted off.
Debbie, USA (ex-UK)

Anne gets boring after the second episode because she sounds like a bully. I did not enjoy the constant negative remarks.
Nick, USA

Oh, come on now. She's only a game show host and not a very polished one at that. A network can purchase the public's attention for a few weeks, but in the end it's just another game show. Big deal.

And haven't you Brits got something better to think about? Is it really that big of a deal to you that one of your own is on US television? Maybe someone needs to shoot Phil Mitchell again to give you something "important" to worry about.
Jason Kelley, USA

Take her back!
Jay Hunter, USA

I've seen both the US and the UK versions of the show, and, quite frankly, the US version loses a lot in translation.

After each round we are treated to advertisements, which results in the loss of tension and drama built during the round.

Anne has really become a caricature of herself and is not as quick-witted as she is in the BBC version. I can't see what all the fuss is about in the US media - it's only a gameshow!
Tim Cooper, Englishman in USA

I did not like the humour or the presentation. I do not think all Americans can follow her language and pronunciation. Hope the last time was the last time I watched her. Goodbye.
Mahesh, USA

One thing I have always admired about the British is their wit and the speed with which it is delivered.

If the people of the UK have any sense of urgency left in restoring their image of being the masters of sarcasm, they should box Anne up and sink her in the North Sea as soon as possible. Even we Americans agree she is just goddamn awful.
Cory Hussain, USA

I'm also a Brit who lives in the USA and all I can say is, whatever we've done, I apologise. Take Anne Robinson back please!
Rob, USA

I lived in the UK from 1996 to 1999 and enjoyed her looking out for the consumer on WatchDog but her cold, forced frown on The Weakest Link is absolutely pathetic.

Malcolm Reeve, Canada

As a Brit over here, I felt obliged to watch Weakest Link. Robinson's put- downs are what's weak. If this is how we need to get the attention of the audience, it's a sad day for British TV
Graham Sedgwick, USA

As bad as Anne Robinson is on our version of The Weakest Link - her put-downs are often too obviously scripted - she's far from being the worst part: the contestants!

If the players were at least smart, her remarks might be taken a little better; as it is now, she comes across as instigating a battle of wits with men and women nowhere close to being armed.
Amanda Paulette, USA

Unbearable voice!
Sue, USA

Awesome Anne! Reputation is a little overdone but Anne is a breath of fresh air. A fine antidote to the sickliness of most US TV game show presenters....
John Vance, Englishman in USA

It's obviously all hype for publicity, and some contestants take it seriously. In the US version Anne tries too hard to be nasty and it comes over as being too contrived and scripted.

Perhaps this is a consequence of having a one hour show that has to be padded to make up the time.
Victor Lee-Own, USA

At last, a programme that can hold our attention to the screen.

Great entertainment, but I wonder how long the BBC can keep up the pretense that Anne is acting and thrive on the indignant response of the American audience?
Dominic Tilling, Canada

Ms Robinson is totally unrecognisable, facially and personality-wise since her Points of View presenting days days.

She appeared likeable and normal back then, but now she is truly banal and both she and The Weakest Link are the weakest links of all. After watching her for five minutes, I couldn't wait to say 'goodbye.'
Rita Baron, USA

Why are we trying to replace rubbish US game shows with rubbish Brit ones?
Glen, USA

I saw the first two American episodes and I have seen the show in the UK. I thought she was absolutely pathetic in the States. I detest her condescending, antagonistic approach.

I lived in the UK from 1996 to 1999 and enjoyed her looking out for the consumer on WatchDog but her cold, forced frown on The Weakest Link is absolutely pathetic.

What makes her so special? Get a life Anne. Goodbye.
Malcolm Reeve, Canada

The show in the States is not as fast due to the commercial breaks and is quite brutal. The jury is still out as far as I can tell on whether it will become a mega-hit over here

David Dutton, USA

I watched the show the other night. The only thing that left an impression on me was that the media seems to be promoting rudeness, greed and self-serving behaviour. What a turn-off!
Ted, USA

I watched ten minutes of the premiere in the States and was less than impressed. It was very contrived and badly acted.

This is typical of when the US takes a perfectly acceptable UK programme and tries to "Americanise" it. I have yet to see a success.
David N. VanMeter, USA

It is a refreshing change to see hosts making fun of contestants who have very little knowledge; the 'feel good' American way is so irritating.

I was quite surprised how relatively few questions the contestants on the US show could answer! However, the way Robinson says "The Weakest Link" and "Goodbye" exactly the same every time does get a bit old!
Michelle Drude, USA

With a US population of about 300 million people and around 100 TV channels, only 5% of the population tuned in. With the average viewer attention span of about 30 seconds (before the incessant ads kick in), Ms Robinson has made very little impact with her rather limited approach to entertainment. We're just waiting for the Carol Vordermann 'make-over' and all will be complete.
Mike, UK expat in USA

What a condescending nasty piece of business Anne Robinson is. No question, she is a turn off (literally). It's like watching the re-birth of Thatcher. No thanks.. not for me or any other cringing ex-pats.
Bryn Gleaver, Canada

Like the game. Can't understand Anne, hate her voice, demeanour, her clothing. She spoils the programme for us.
Moira Nichol, Canada

I think she's great and I love the show! The New York Post knocks everything and everyone with the exception of George Bush, shows how smart they are!
Clara Roach, USA

I was in the UK last October for a three week vacation, and got hooked on The Weakest Link. It was fast, fun and Anne was very tough.

The show in the States is not as fast due to the commercial breaks and is quite brutal. The jury is still out as far as I can tell on whether it will become a mega-hit over here.
David Dutton, USA

I think Anne Robinson has done what she is paid to do - create a stir. And she's succeeded. Whether you like her or not, you've got to hand it to her

John Peg, Australia

One of the many bonuses of emigrating eight months ago, was to escape Anne and her takeover of British TV. Is anywhere safe?!
Sian Balding, USA

A new concept for American TV! Don't know if it's just for show or she truly has this personality, but it's so different for the USA (we have very prudish and regulated programmes) that it will have a great following.

Do You Want to be a Millionaire is cute; this show is more exciting because of the attitude displayed and it's something America isn't used to viewing.
Carol Churchill, USA

After living in England for six years and having the opportunity to see and read about Ann Robinson many times, I am sad to see her portrayed in this programme as a pretty mean and nasty hostess.

She was never this "bad". The make up person at NBC has had a field day with her and her makeup is rather severe and she never smiles. I don't remember her that way!

She was always a direct, no punches kind of person, but not downright nasty all the time. I enjoyed watching her between 1994 and 1999. We only left last June.

Has she changed that much or is this just a character for the show? Whatever the case, I don't think Americans tuning in to the show are getting the true picture of her. She really isn't that bad!
Maria, USA

I am British living in the USA and have seen Anne in action both in the UK and the USA. I don't think it is suited to American contestants or audiences as there are more than a few contestants who can't understand her English!
Linda Boughton, USA

I watched about fifteen minutes of the first episode and found the show very disturbing. I felt very uncomfortable by the confrontational nature of the programme.

I am surprised if it is true that the show's ratings are so great. Could be just network publicity hype. Then again a country that loves Jerry Springer may well also love Anne Robinson.
Olivia Casasnovas, USA

The questions are good, but not all equal at the same level. I would rather watch re-runs of JAWS. After watching one show and part of another, I've seen enough.

The 'Good-byes' get overused. The repetitiveness of 'You are the weakest link' will soon bore the majority of the viewing audience. The early ratings probably just derive from curiosity.
Mike Larson, USA

I don't have a problem with Ms. Robinson treating idiots as such, but please speak the language: there's a T in "weakesT link."
Dan, USA

I think Anne Robinson has done what she is paid to do - create a stir. And she's succeeded. Whether you like her or not, you've got to hand it to her.

I enjoy seeing her bully the Americans and take them down a peg or two.
John Peg, Australia

Can't honestly see what the fuss is about. She behaves no differently to anyone working in some of London's shops

Mike Weston, UK

Come on people.

I saw Anne Robinson for the first time when I was back in the UK last month. I loved The Weakest Link. Ms Robinson's tongue is obviously so firmly in her cheek that I'm amazed people can be so wound up by her.

I get the impression of a clever woman with a wicked sense of humour who'd be a lot of fun as a personal friend.

And to see her going to a country so overly concerned with self-esteem issues at the expense of true valuation is the funniest thing of all.

Keep at it Anne. You're terrific.
Gary Pollard, Hong Kong

Weakest Link is great fun, get it? Fun.

The Weakest Link is fantastic, I introduced it to a friend that was staying in the UK with me, and they have never looked back.

When they returned to the States, they informed all their friends about it, maybe they were the lucky ones as they had someone to explain that Anne Robinson's performance was a act, and that if other Americans did not get this, they should get a life.
Jeremy Granville, UK

I can't believe I'm reading this! We had something one hundred times scarier running the country for over a decade and now the US has been brought to a stand-still by a sweet middle-aged lady who used to present Points of View?!
Chris Merriman, UK

I think it's utterly dreadful and a sorry reflection on modern society. What an example to put out - let's be unpleasant to everyone and stab each other in the back!
Matthew Wood, UK

I know Chris Tarrant would have loved to say a few choice words to that arrogant little man that screwed up the �16,000 cheque up and threw it on the floor the other day.

At least Anne gets to come out with it. Good luck to her in the USA, but keep it up here too!
Stephen, UK

I've been following news of the show's move to the US with great interest.

The first time I saw the show I found Anne's voice irritating because she almost shouts everything (something she complained about on Room 101!) and she puts a "t" on the end of the word thousand.

The show has grown on me. I like to see how the contestants react and listen to their comments when they're dismissed.

Anne's perfect for the role of host and I hope the Americans can overcome her accent and "get" the show. Bear in mind that some US viewers disliked Lenny Henry's "Chef" because of the nasty way he talked to his staff!
Andy, UK

Can't honestly see what the fuss is about. She behaves no differently to anyone working in some of London's shops.
Mike Weston, UK

I do hope this is a permanent move. Any room for Tarrant and Whiteley over there too?

Neil Stott, UK

I'm too scared to say anything in case she is reading this.
Terry, UK

How on earth is her career not over? She is a rude, ignorant, racist woman, I cannot even bear watching her on the TV anymore.
Phoebe, UK

Nowadays, there are enough people around who speak to others in an ignorant manner. To do it on telly will only increase the number.
Gordon Mills, UK

I love her, she has quite a cult/camp following in the Netherlands. I am sure it is all fake but who cares, it's still very funny.

Too bad she is now on US television because it will eventually lead to an Americanisation of the show, but nevertheless long live la Robinson!
Jose Fernandez, Netherlands

From reading comments by Ms Robinson herself, it seems she regards her performance on the Weakest Link as a demonstration of a "strong woman".

Presumably this is her definition of an ignorant and offensive person who happens to be female.

It is a mistake to believe that this is all a comic strip image, because she clearly uses her position as the show's host to voice her prejudices.

Your description of her as "matriarch" is accurate if it is considered to be morally equivalent to "patriarch".
Paul McAdam, UK

TV for morons. I have watched the programme once and found it cringingly embarrassing - typical of the new breed of programmes often inspired by the victim-TV culture of the US.

The BBC seems to move ever-closer to its commercial rivals with such recent gems as Darts Wives and Car Wars; both low-budget, low-imagination programmes which make me begrudge the licence fee. Mindless.
Paul Kersy, UK

She was refreshing to start with but once you've seen one or two shows there's nothing more to see; it's just the same lines regurgitated over and over like any other cheap television. Where is the original thought and entertainment?
Jez, England

It's entertainment and is harmless fun. She's not meant to be taken seriously - just as a lot of TV comedy is meant to be taken with a pinch of salt!
J Rau, England

So, the Anne Robinson is going to America. I hope she is a big success. I hope she doesn't come back. And I hope no UK TV companies are stupid enough to import any of her programmes back here.

A serious lack of talent with a smug grin which will be gladly missed.
Ian Murray, UK

I do hope this is a permanent move. Any room for Tarrant and Whiteley over there too?
Neil Stott, UK

Anne Robinson does not live up to her reputation. Her jibes and insults give every impression of having been scripted. They are not particularly original, memorable, or evidently the product of a quick wit.

Americans are used to the reparte of a Dorothy Parker and instead we sent them a tired old-fashioned English nag!
David T, UK

As someone who has lived in both countries, I must say that I would be very surprised if the show has success in the US.

English people may be masochists, but her behaviour won't last long in the US. By the way, rocketing to the top of the ratings with 15 million viewers? Not a big deal in a country of 280 million surely.

But then again, the show, while not unsuccessful, is not one of the UK's greatest ratings hits either!
Nick Grealy, UK

Anne Robinson's affected speech is the worst turn-off. Why does she keep pronouncing t on the end of the word "thousand". It must be her Scouse accent!

Also, her own poor general knowledge is apparent as she often doesn't understand the questions she's asking. The answer is to put her in the hot seat and watch her squirm.
Rob Egan, UK

I think Anne is hilarious. People shouldn't take her so seriously. If she wasn't like she is on the show, why would people watch and what would make it different from any other quiz show?

I know she can be harsh, but contestants know what they're in for when they go on the quiz.
Emily Fellows, England

She is the worst presenter on TV, I hated her on Watchdog and I hate her even more on The Weakest Link, I can only say that I am glad I am out of the country now so that I don't have to see her face anymore!
Steve Blair, Switzerland

Anne Robinson is only stating the truth about people, but if people are taking a gameshow seriously, then they really shouldn't participate or watch it. It's only a game after all.
Andrew Bullock, UK

Let's face it. The only reason anyone watches this otherwise banal show is to see the extent to which the wannabes are prepared to be humiliated for their fifteen minutes of fame.

Ms Robinson does what she does very well. If she wasn't rude it wouldn't be worth watching.
Andy Dawson, UK

She is annoying and the contestants should be able to say what they think of her (as I'm sure they are told to keep their mouths shut).

Perhaps she should take part in one of the shows as we can see how much of a weak link she is.

This is getting me more worked up just thinking about it.

Robinson, you are the weakest link, goodbye.
Chris Parr, England

I find her programmes far from entertaining. It is beyond my comprehension that the contestants submit themselves to Anne Robinson's rudeness for the sake of others' entertainment.

In the programme Watchdog, she has invited guests to explain their company's actions and has been too ignorant to allow them to answer her questions.
Joyce Wink, Scotland

I used to watch daily until her appearance on Room 101.... but no more!
Richard Edwards, Wales

Anne Robinson hams it up dreadfully in one of the most pointless shows in televison... and the licence payer has to fund it. At least Millionaire is paid for by the call revenue to the show.
Simon Lord, UK

The Weakest Link is all hype for sure. I never watch the programme as I can`t stand Anne Robinson.

Has anyone noticed how all that is talked about in this programme is how arrogant the presenter is? The game itself has poor prize money compared to other quiz shows.

Anne Robinson has the personality of a brick and the programme is as entertaining as a public hanging.

In this competitive age of television surely the BBC can supply better programming than this? I begrudge some of my TV licence paying Robinson's wages.
Martin Nicholls, England

The show is fantastic and Anne is a woman of substance. Her direct approach and quick wit is what makes the show so entertaining. At least she is not as patronising as Chris Tarrant.
Olinka, UK

I simply don't understand all this hysteria about the show and its presenter. You have an off switch, use it (or turn over and watch Wheel of Fortune).

Good luck to Anne and the production company who are collectively making a great deal of money by fooling you into thinking that it's a worthy subject.
Chris Moran, United Arab Emirates

It seems to me that female presenters on television are always portrayed as squeaky clean, kind and caring little bunny rabbits and I find it a refreshing change to see a woman who is not afraid to be a little bit more realistic. Yes she can be cruel, but so can we all. At least she has a personality and opinion of her own.
JLE, France

I think she is very rude to people, the way she presents the programme could be a bit nicer than this. Being friendly to people is not a bad thing.

The idea behind the programme itself is very good, but the way it is presented is very irritating and disgusting. I mean no offence to Ms Anne Robinson, if she would only just be nicer!
Mark Anderson, UK

With their economy about to stall, their relations with both Russia and China at their worst since the cold war and record levels of personal debt, I would have thought Ms Robinson was the last thing the US needed to batter its collective self-esteem.
Rob Churchill, UK

Anne Robinson's comments may be cutting to say the least, but they never fail to amuse me. I'd far rather listen to Anne Robinson's fiery attacks than Richard Whiteley's inane giggling on Countdown. And another thing: Watchdog just isn't the same without her.
Gary McCartney, UK

She is arrogant for her own good, as demonstrated with her racist comments against the Welsh. Get rid of her. We change channels when she comes on as a quiet little protest.
Alan Leeb-du Toit, England

Anne's approach and manner lack any variety at all and so become transparently unconvincing and meaningless. By being harsh all the time (even on the rare occasions when the contestants don't deserve a hard time) her harshness ends up having no impact.

...In extremis, 'quaking with fear' is often rapidly replced by 'quaking with giggles'...

By introducing different degrees into her 'act', the impact of her caustic one-liners would be magnified considerably...

Don't be monotonous, Anne!
Peter J, UK

Excellent! More TV showing us how to be rude and uncaring to others.
T.Gill, UK

It is a sad reflection on the state of entertainment and the values of a country when people are asked to work as a team only to turn on the 'weakest'. It is inconsistent with civilisation and a caring society.
Malcolm Nicholson, UK

Since I've been watching the programme, it's always been full of insults aimed at all the contestants. Anne lives up to her reputation.

If Anne could imagine herself to be one of the contestants, how would she feel if she was abused like that?

I strongly believe that Anne Robinson would not be able to get to the second round of the programme if she was a contestant.

Anne, I don't think you are the best presenter for the Weakest Link. You are also a weak link yourself.
Funmi Olagunju, Britain

The Weakest Link is the best quiz show to have ever been shown on TV. Why is the show so popular? People only tune in, not to watch the questions or test their knowledge but to see how far Anne goes in her insults and banter with the contestants.

If the contestants were so scared of Anne, then they wouldn't be applying in droves to appear on the show. At the end of the day it is a new form of entertainment which people love. There is always the off switch and it's obvious that people aren't using it. Long may Anne have success in both the UK and the USA!
Darren Parmenter, Spain

Anne Robinson isn't scary, but she is fantastic! She gets to be absolutely vicious to people on national TV, and it's great fun to watch. Like all things, it gets tired, but if you don't watch the show very often, it's amusing.
Seldo Voss, UK

Just like to say, Anne, the Dutch football team Ajax, is not pronounced like the cleaning fluid.

You are the weakest link, goodbye.............
Craig, UK

Why do people take this so seriously? It's a gameshow to smile at.
Glenda Meeson, UK

I really can't see how Anne Robinson as hood-winked a whole nation into thinking she is some kind of tyrant. Her perfomance can be best described as contrived and the role would have been better suited to Jeremy Paxman.
Dave Gilmore, UK

I think The Weakest Link should move to the Broadway or West End stage, fill the theatre, and then the contestants would be even more nervous of a performance day and night.
C.Parry, Wales

Of course it is hype! The show has created a persona based loosely on Anne Robinson's usual purse-lipped style and magnified into an egregious caricature.

I suspect Robinson wasn't the sweetest plum in the pudding to start with, but her gameshow act is just a calculated attempt to give her the charisma that she lacks naturally.

She isn't nearly clever enough to be that dismissive of others' intellects without having a hammed-up character to hide behind.
James, UK

It's good to see a quizshow format that is more elaborate than the usual Q&A approach often employed. However, it's fairly clear that the questions are rather facile compared to old school classics such as Mastermind.

I wonder if this panders to the ego of the viewer - during an episode of Mastermind one would feel smug about knowing the answers to a handful of questions. With The Weakest Link, one can expect to know the majority of answers.
Paul M, UK

Although she is very quick and has good skills, I think she is getting repetitive, she always makes the same comments.

I don't find these kind of nasty, unpleasant comments funny at all. I really don't think this sort of humour says much about British humour...I understand that Americans like it, though...
Marta Amigo, UK

She does live up to her reputation and makes a refreshing change from the usual sugary presenters. For all the complainers - just don't watch the programme.
Deb, UK

Although no fan of quiz shows populated with sycophantic hosts, Anne Robinson does break the mould in a refreshing manner. Is it just me though or is she the most obnoxious person in the world?
James, UK

I watched the show for about five minutes and found Anne Robinson's attempts at being clever, funny and rude to be pretty pathetic and rather embarrassing. The whole thing is a typical lazy 'gimmick' quiz show where the quiz element is incidental to the 'personality' (sic) of the celebrity presenter. The Americans love it do they? That just about says it all!
Iain Scott, UK

I think anyone who has said that Anne Robinson leaves them quaking has lost all sense of reality. It's a quiz show and she's a quiz show hostess! They choose to go and compete and they know what to expect.

I think that Anne could improve her performance a lot. In my opinion, she doesn't always pronounce the words in the questions correctly.

If the hype is to be believed she's making a lot of money from it and good luck to her. I believe that the viewers have fallen for the hype.
Morag Frank, UK

I think Anne Robinson is a pain but she is playing cleverly to the audience and for the most part they seem to be loving it. I mean, all of that rotten comment about the Welsh and her 'hitting' back at the critics in the States.

This lady is certainly not for turning: she is too busy rolling her money to the bank!
John Lashley, UK

In truth, I've not watched this - but caught it whilst channel- hopping. From what I've seen of her, she is curt and I find her manner abusive and would not waste my time continuing to watch. If this is the best we can export, no wonder we are going downhill fast.
Jennifer Brookes, UK

All it shows are the levels people will stoop to for money. Especially Anne Robinson.
Tim Hale, England

Anne Robinson is one of the least talented TV presenters I've seen yet. She was hopeless on Watchdog and is utterly unconvincing on The Weakest Link. Her marketers, however, are terrific!

It's amazing that so many have been duped into thinking that this woman is so scary ... she appears to me to be a bigoted, unintelligent, untalented has-been.
Miles, United Kingdom

(From a long-expatriated Brit in Denmark who has never seen the show).

Is this the same Anne Robinson who used to present Points of View on the Beeb years ago? If so, the whimsical, elfin-like creature I remember must have gone through a terrifying metamorphosis. If the reports are true, I think I prefer to remember her as she was.
Nigel Mander, Denmark

Anne Robinson is probably the best TV baddie in recent years. Certainly anyone who steps onto the show is in for a rough ride.

I don't know if the American public is ready for a show like this or if they have the right sort of humour to understand it.

Having recently been subjected to a number of American game shows whilst staying on business in various hotels I am not sure whether the American viewing public will embrace the show.

Anne Robinson will certainly be infamous in the States.
Andy Millington, Germany

A sad woman - a sad programme - aimed at sad people. Why must everything these days be geared to cheapness, vulgarity, rudeness and offensiveness?

But I guess we get the television (like the politicians) our collective intellect deserves. This is just the sort of programme which would gain favour in America, where bad taste knows no bounds...
Richard Holman, UK

Thank God the Americans like her and the show, with any luck she can stay there and we won't have to see her on our screens again...I'll never forgive her for all that Watchdog rubbish.
Paul, UK

Anne does a great job! I can't believe some of the self righteous political correct twaddle already posted. Every contestant on the show knows what they are in for when they apply to go on. No one is ambushed! Its just fun.
Rick, UK

I don't think the format will stand the test of time. It has too little variation in pace or tone.

I still find it hard to believe that anyone will put themselves through all that grief for just �7000 or so. The BBC should add an extra '0' on the end of that.
David Worsfold, England

Am I the only person to think that this is all a bit of cruel joke? I can't believe people find enjoyment out of watching someone be horrible to someone else for the sake of entertainment?

I've only watched a couple of shows but on each one, Anne Robinson has driven me mad by trying so hard to be nasty she ended up coming across as a spoilt shool child.
Jo, UK

I think The Weakest Link, as with all shows, started off very well on BBC Two but as soon as it gets popular it will become a victim of its own success.

Who is Anne Robinson trying to kid, she isn't rude or scary, it's a pantomine. My headteacher at school was much more menacing!
Jack Smith, UK

I know of the programme and its format. I don't watch it, I feel sad for those who are entertained by it and by other people's misfortune. But the candid camera type shows have gone down that road, finding entertainment in misfortune. I'm sure the same viewers will be tuning in to the McVeigh execution to be entertained. What a world!
Simon Mallett, UK

I hate this show, I can't stand the presenter, her character's not suitable for this programme, not like Chris in Millionaire. After I watch this programme, I feel annoyed, not happy.
Kay, UK

Good for her, I think she is taking the mick and enjoying it - let's commend UK success in the US, not put it down. Goodbye!
Peter Clayton, UK

Impressive with her cold insults and jabs at contestants weaknesses, but it is only an act and scripted between contestants leaving.... Surely?!
David Stone, UK

I hope the fashion for nasty gameshows disappears soon. The Weakest Link has a gimmick, just like every other gameshow, but it is an unpleasant one.

The hurt and embarrassment to the contestants must linger long after the episode has been broadcast and forgotten. Is it really so important to get viewers?
Stephanie, England

I think that she's very entertaining and that people who take her too seriously need to get a life and get out more! (Says me who's actually taking the time to write this!)
Michelle Howard, England

Yep, it is all hype. On the few occasions I have watched this program, her plodding delivery of feeble put-downs fails to lift it beyond the excruciatingly dull.

What really grates is that the sneering remarks come from someone who obviously couldn't answer the questions herself (at least Jeremy Paxman and Bamber Gascoigne gave the impression that they might actually know the answers to some of the questions they asked).

You may as well get Jim Davidson to takeover - and he's probably cheaper.
Mike Cronshaw, UK

The trouble is, she's so ignorant herself. Someone who cannot pronounce the composer Haydn correctly (to name but one of her many solecisms - and goodness knows how she would pronounce that word!) has no business hectoring others for their shortcomings.

Truly dreadful. Replace her with a presenter who is both domineering and erudite, such as Jeremy Paxman (though I doubt whether he would lower himself to it).
Edward, UK

Over-hyped, overpaid and, thankfully, over there!
Tim Pilcher, UK

The fact that a moronic proportion find the notion of her making snide remarks and catty put-downs to ordinary members of the public attractive, says much more about the British people than about Anne Robinson.
Charles Thompson, UK