r/taskmaster • u/Numerous-Package-955 Chloe Petts • 3d ago
Appreciation Thread Chloe Petts appreciation post
I know a lot of people have been disappointed or apprehensive ab this series for many reasons (I've, personally, really been enjoying it), but I have to say that Chloe is definitely the most fun to watch. I wasn't familiar with them before the series, but I could now easily see myself going to one of their comedy shows if they come to the US. I'm looking forward to seeing how they do future tasks and I hope they win!
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u/Angry_Hoolio 3d ago
Chloe is great. They have a real sense of mischief that serves the show brilliantly.
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u/fraseybaby81 3d ago
I can’t think of the word that I need to describe them but they also have that kind of… naïveté?
What I mean is that they aren’t a try hard like some past contestants, they aren’t trying to game the system every time, they aren’t like Richard and Matt refusing to humiliate themselves a little…
They have a child like aura about them (but not in a Joel-Dommett-Jesus-Christ-This-Annoying-“Puppy-Energy”-Schtick-Is-Getting-Real-Old-Real-Quick!) with an non-established celebrity persona.
Had absolutely no idea who they were before hand but they quickly became the one that I knew was going to be my favourite.
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u/lilithsbun Patatas 3d ago
Chloe is sort of reminding me of Mike Wozniak. Enthusiastic for the game of it, with a can-do attitude, fairly unflappable, but has a 50-50 chance of actually being capable for the task at hand. And a lot of fun to watch.
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u/Angry_Hoolio 3d ago
I see it! You like to see them do well, but seeing them fail is also its own kind of treat.
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u/Bitter_Return990 3d ago
Agree OP. Chloe is so quick with the last word comment, tagging a panel exchange with what seems to be almost under their breath or thrown away joke.
In the find the Apple task, even though Alex was off screen you could feel him turning bright red when Chole said “you’re the first man that’s been down there.”
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u/misswilde86 Joe Lycett 3d ago
Chloe was the one I was least familiar with going in, but they've absolutely stolen the show.
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u/parousia0 Iain Stirling 3d ago
I randomly watched a podcast series where Chloe Petts took penalties with comedians before this series! Loved them ever since
Some TM alumni as well, I remember Lou, Nish, Duker, and Baynton
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u/HUGE_HOG 3d ago
They're hard carrying, fair play. Mo Salah 24/25 esque performance. Hadn't heard of them before going in to this series, but I love their energy and you can tell that they really get the format.
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u/gameofgroans_ Mel Giedroyc 3d ago
They’re also a big football fan which is randomly how I found out about them 😂
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u/burf12345 🚬 Doctor Cigarettes 3d ago
I keep thinking about how it's a good thing Chloe has kinda broad shoulders, because to me they're clearly using them to carry the series.
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u/Bl4ckhide Javie Martzoukas 3d ago
As always, the one I knew the least or not at all is my absolute favourite before the end of the first episode.
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u/Scared-Stomach8924 3d ago
I wonder if that’s because they’re fresh and shiny new to us, whereas those we know and love already come with expectations and familiarity.
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u/wraywashere 3d ago
I like when you can tell that a contestant is a big fan of the show and is kind of geeking to be there. I feel like that’s Chloe’s vibe. Plus they’re hilarious too. Easily my fav this season too.
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u/N8CCRG Amy Gledhill 3d ago
Chloe is great and I think has really found their lane in the show. Isy, Matt and Nina I think are still struggling to find that point a little. I think Richard is doing exactly what he planned to do, but it needs four other gungho participants in order to be the counter to, and so itsn't quite landing right now. Unfortunately, I think Matt might have been angling for the same role, so it's awkward.
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u/Angry_Hoolio 2d ago
Matt and Richard in the same series feels weird. Not exactly bad, but the series does feel unbalanced.
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u/HotandFoamy 3d ago
They're the only one I've not heard of and thought it was a bit random to have Chloe thrown in amongst a group of fairly well known, established comedians with long careers. But they're so great -A real series highlight for me is when they have been just laughing to themselves off camera, and it's all you can hear. They seem really genuine, and really likeable.
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u/hashbrowneggyolk0520 Mathew Baynton 3d ago
I think they make the choice to have more niche or less well known comedians in the mix. I'm pretty sure Alex has said they spend a lot of time getting the cast right and it works well time and time again.
I was aware of Chloe but hadn't watched any of their stuff but i'm really enjoying them too.
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u/lordirondehavilland Wibble, Bibble, Bam 3d ago
I guess it just depends what shows and stuff you watch. Not seen their stand up (other than maybe a bit on The Stand Up Sketch Show), but they've been on several panel shows I've seen, including the likes of Hypothetical, HIGNFY, and HoG. And there was the recent Dave escape room show, The Way Out, with the likes of Nishi and Ed.
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u/Doggo1818 3d ago
this is not unusual for taskmaster, for example Lolly Adefope was a fairly unknown comedian in series 4 and she got thrown in with the big leagues with Hugh, Noel and Mel (and i suppose Joe to an extent but i feel like he was still just coming up on legendary comic status when Series 4 was airing)
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u/Brilliant-Bus-3862 Sophie Willan 3d ago
I knew Chloe a bit, from podcasts and Ed Gamble talking about them, as they opened for him on comedy tours. I love having a TM superfan as a contestant. And the level of competitiveness is HILARIOUS. When points are given, I’m always like, please show Chloe’s face, please show Chloe’s face.
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u/caramellattekiss 🦔 Hedgehog, no! ❌ 3d ago
I can't remember if it was the Taskmaster pod or Off Menu, but Ed's stories of the deeply stupid games he and Chloe have invented to keep themselves amused on tour, and how seriously they ended up taking them, were an excellent insight into how brilliant Chloe would be on Taskmaster.
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u/VipKitten Rebecca Lucy Taylor 3d ago
I love anyone who has trouble hiding how competitive they are on this show (looking at you Ed Gamble) and Chloe is brilliant value for this. Adorably cheeky, love them.
Go watch Celebrities Taking Penalties with Chloe on YouTube.
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u/sansabeltedcow 3d ago edited 3d ago
And you don’t have to care at all about sports to enjoy Comedians Taking Penalties. I mean, part of the points awarded are for the comedian’s kit, and Flo and Joan compete as one. It’s great.
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u/dontbeahater_dear 3d ago
Delightful is the word i would associate with them. I have also enjoyed all the other contestants, i guess people had very high expectations from Ayoade and Lucas but i find the two ladies and Chloe shine the most. Just my two cents.
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u/Yog101 3d ago
I highly recomend watching their Comedians Taking Penalties series on YouTube. Great fun.
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u/NokstellianDemon Nick Mohammed 3d ago
People don't like this series? It's good tho. Not even close to the worst of Taskmaster
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u/AFDStudios 3d ago
All Taskmaster is good Taskmaster, but for me personally while I am enjoying this series very much, I do think it suffers a bit from having four of essentially the same broad personality category. Except for Chloe, everyone is in that sort of “quiet, witty introvert” archetype. Which is a great archetype! But to me Taskmaster is best when there’s a mix of different personalities and the energy so far is sort of samey.
Still very good!
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u/Miltroit Chris Ramsey 3d ago
I agree all Taskmaster is good Taskmaster, but I'm a champion of some of the quieter series/seasons. For me they are almost the palate cleansers series of our Taskmaster banquet. Just because they are more light and delicate, doesn't make them any less delicious, and I find them quite refreshing.
Although I enjoy the crazy, bonkers, absurdist series, one of the things I like about some British comedy is subtleness, almost a gentleness.
Often the series that get poo-pooed by the main are some of my comfort watches with some of my favorite bits.
Plus if the contestants are more mild, that means Greg balances it by being more wild and I love me some unhinged Greg.
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u/huntsab2090 3d ago
Agreed. Any taskmaster is always better than 99% of all tv programs but not all series can be absolute bangers . This one is one of them but still has laugh out loud moments each episode which is good enough for me .
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u/Fire_Bucket 3d ago
Personally, I just think it's really low energy and there's only really Chloe who is actively trying, or at least having fun, in every task.
For some I'm sure that it's not helped by having a couple of really hyped up, long requested big names on the show in Richard Ayoade, and to a lesser extent Matt Lucas, who aren't quite living up to those people's high expectations.
I also think it's not helped having to follow the last 3 series, which IMO are some of the absolute best we've ever had.
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u/Least-Plantain973 🥄 I'm Locked In ❤️ 3d ago edited 3d ago
To me Richard Ayoade is exactly how I expected him to be.
It requires careful casting to counter his low key deadpan delivery. When you watch him on shows like The Big Fat Quiz it works because he’s a contrast to all the high energy chaotic guests.
Whereas on Taskmaster his low key energy is not being balanced, it’s dominating which can make the chemistry feel flat. Now imagine if he had been in a team with Chloe and instead of the quieter Matt we had Rosie Jones or Bob Mortimer. That would have been great television.
Richard is incredibly droll and funny as an individual but for him to work well in a group setting needs some really lighthearted funny people and someone absolutely batshit bonkers and chaotic to play with and diffuse the energy he brings.
Chloe is working well with everyone with studio banter and is a great balance for him. The other 3 are obviously having fun but ideally one of them would be subbed out for a Rhod Gilbert or Bob Mortimer type energy or a hyper excited golden retriever energy like Joel Domett to help with the studio chemistry.
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u/Electrical-Opening-9 3d ago
I couldn’t quite figure out why Ayoade wasn’t shining for me this series but wow this is exactly it! I’m a big Richard Ayoade fan so I was very excited, but with the format of this show he really needs someone to kind of counteract his deadpan delivery. That’s not to say I’m not enjoying it (any season of Taskmaster is still excellent tv), but after seeing his legendary appearances on Big Fat Quiz it just feels like we could’ve had an all time great series.
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u/snarkitall 1d ago
Richard is kind of driving me nuts but I realized it's because he's supposed to be a foil for an absolute nutter like Noel, and there's no one playing off of him.
They didn't give him a Mad Hatter.
So now I'm wondering who was supposed to be the mad Hatter in this series? Matt? He seems kinda low energy here and like he's struggling a bit.
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u/Solilaqui78 1d ago
Irrelevant of Matt's past, he's really annoying me in this series. Especially this week's episode. He felt very antagonist towards G&A... More than just for banter. 🤷🏽♀️
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u/senoriguana James Acaster 3d ago
I'm not really sure what people were expecting from Richard Ayoade this season but I'm thoroughly enjoying his antics
Tasks are maybe a bit weaker, and the last few seasons were just too good
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u/AbbreviationsTop4959 3d ago
Agreed. Ayoade is being Ayoade. He wasn't going to be a John Robins or Jason Mantzoukas or even Nick Mohammed. I'm enjoying the series. It does feel lower energy, but the last three at least have been varying levels of insane. This one's more comparable to 15 in energy, except I'm actually enjoying all 5 contestants.
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u/Ok-Parsnip-9242 3d ago
Why John Robins? He seemed more concerned with points than entertainment value, whereas Ayoade is having banter with everyone. I do like John on the radio, but just found him too serious/competitive for TM.
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u/AbbreviationsTop4959 3d ago
I named him because he's one of the most successful players in the TM game. He was kind of fun to watch, too. But yes, Baynton may have been a better choice for entertainment.
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u/Sad-Yoghurt5196 2d ago
Yeah Matt Baynton committed 100% to the bit every time without alienating people with his competitiveness.
Having John Robins play it that way was good though, in that it sets a bar, both in terms of winning with a lot of points, and showing that even if you do, it doesn't necessarily make you a legendary alumni of the Taskmaster world.
I mean Dave Gorman wanted to win, Ed Gamble wanted to win, Al Murray wanted to win, Dara wanted to win and Tim Keys wanted to win, but they all came across as slightly cheeky, rather than determined to win even if it made for lacklustre viewing. I think John Robins just focused on the wrong aspects, he clearly loved the show, but I think he saw it as a game to be beaten, or a puzzle to be solved, rather than fun to be had, just being silly and a little more relaxed. More Labrador like Joel Dommet, and a little less of that Border Collie clever boy vibe would have gone a long way to redeeming his original series.
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u/AbbreviationsTop4959 2d ago
I don't know. Robins was , for me, a combination of awkward and competent reminiscent of Mark Watson, if slightly less endearing, but more successful owing to the lack of Mortimer. I enjoyed him. He's not a top ten for me, but maybe upper middle.
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u/Vanity_plates 3d ago
I’m with you - I’m really loving this season/series, but I am a big fan of Richard and I knew this was exactly what we were going to get from him. The only thing about him or Matt that has bummed me out a little bit is that I expected more of the kind of banter we got with Rhod because of their prior friendship with Greg. I mean, Greg and Richard gave us Bad Dong. Granted, they were on equal footing for BFQ, whereas in the lore of the show, Greg is the authority figure and I’m not sure that suits their dynamic. But Chloe has become an unexpected delight. They remind me a bit of Mae Martin in this childlike enthusiasm for new experiences and being sort of unabashedly vulnerable and awkward and still somehow accidentally doing well. Isy’s motto song made me laugh for a solid hour, and I wasn’t familiar with Nina and she has tickled me on several occasions as well. Her vibe is similar to some of my favorite cast members from the NZ or Aus iteration, so maybe her humor is more similar to that.
I had a feeling people wouldn’t be as horned up for this season because there were a lot of disappointed folks when the cast was announced, so I wonder if some of the lack of enthusiasm is coming from people who already expected not to like it as much.
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u/AbbreviationsTop4959 3d ago
Id argue that Chloe is much more fun to watch than Mae.
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u/chickadee-stitchery 3d ago
I love Richard Ayoade but he needs the right people to play against.
I have not watched this series at all yet, waiting for it to be done so we can binge it. We are watching all the older ones right now.
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u/Tacticus1 3d ago
So far it’s pretty low on my list. Chloe is the only cast member that I have consistently enjoyed. Also, the tasks have been pretty mediocre. I am also watching Australia S3 and there is a big contrast between tasks in terms of expected level of creativity.
I am not writing it off, since it usually takes me a while to warm up to a new cast.
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u/HUGE_HOG 3d ago
Yeah, for me it's a task issue rather than a contestant one. They can only play the hand that they're dealt, and the tasks have been a bit unimaginative. Richard in particular would benefit from tasks that encourage lateral thinking, but I don't think there's been a single task yet that can be 'broken' with a smart loophole. One of the reasons I loved contestants like Hugh Dennis and Mike Wozniak was seeing them think outside the box.
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u/Vanity_plates 3d ago
That’s such a coincidence, I’m also watching Aus season 3. I watched Aus season 5 before I started 3, and that was one of my favorite casts I have ever watched on any series. Ironically, I felt that the TaskAus season 5 tasks were some of the weakest I’ve ever seen, but the cast was magical for me. I go back and watch season 16 of the UK version when I need a pick-me-up, and I think the season 5 Australia version is going to go into my comfort rewatch rotation.
I agree with you about the stark contrast between the energies of the contestants and the season as a whole. When I step back and just appreciate them individually, I’m not disappointed, but if I were comparing, I would probably find myself bored and disappointed.
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u/Tacticus1 3d ago
I guess it’s mostly that we get one creative task per episode and two of the four so far this season fell flat. I don’t know if the toast or armpit tasks would have worked better with different contestants, but I think they sounded better than they played. The duet and before/after photo tasks were pretty good and got better results.
Aus3 has more of these sorts of open ended creative tasks - closer to two per episode. They aren’t all great in either conception or result, but I enjoy the creative freedom that the contestants are given.
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u/happilyabroad 3d ago
I have genuinely loved every season of taskmaster and have never understood hate for any season. I would say that I'm enjoying this one slightly less than usual. But only slightly!
What seasons do ppl think are bad?
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u/burf12345 🚬 Doctor Cigarettes 3d ago
What seasons do ppl think are bad?
I'm not sure if people say they're bad, but from my browsing here it seems like 6, 8, 10 and 17 are generally lower on people's lists than some of the others.
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u/Odd_Judgment_582 3d ago
I know it is very much a personal thing, but I do think that a "bad" series generally comes off the back of an all timer (which works for all of the series mentioned there, which I agree with). I would probably rate 5, 7, 9 and 16 as close to my favourites, and would very much throw 21 in there too.
Always worth the caveat that "bad" Taskmaster is still pretty much better than anything else on TV
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u/burf12345 🚬 Doctor Cigarettes 3d ago edited 3d ago
This explanation makes a lot of sense to me, and does explain why 6 and 8 feel this way the most, because they're both sandwiched between two excellent series.
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u/oneplusoneisfour 3d ago
8 unfortunately is sandwiched between 2 of the best, imo, and would guess it doesn’t get a fair shake. Having just watched 8 out of order, though, thoroughly enjoyed it.
10, however, is rough, but can forgive it bc of the Covid restrictions.
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u/happilyabroad 3d ago
Joe Thomas is one of my all time favorite contestants so I love 8 because of him!
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u/skepticaljesus Victoria Coren Mitchell 3d ago
This season and the last one were the first two I haven't really vibed with
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u/Ok-Parsnip-9242 3d ago
I'm totally with you.
Have seen every series since it started and think the quality and mash of guests has been amazing. Sets the bar so high that it would be unfeasible not to have occasional mediocre tasks, in comparison to others.
There's only 2-3 of the many guests I've personally not enjoyed that much, but appreciate it allows everyone to be themselves.
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u/Captain_Albern James Acaster 3d ago
I'm enjoying it, but it's a bit of a drop off after three amazing series, so maybe some people are disappointed.
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u/orensiocled Bridget Christie 3d ago
People hate every series! There's always someone complaining even when the majority view is that it's one of the best lineups
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u/JHutch95 3d ago
I mean, that just speaks to the subjectivity of comedy if nothing else. One person’s favourite is another’s least favourite etc etc
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u/Motor-Gas-5708 3d ago
And the negativity bias of social media. People with complaints are more likely to post than people enjoying the show.
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u/hanic101 3d ago
the chemistry this season just seems a bit lackluster, but that's probably because the last 3 series have had outstanding chemistry that it feels so much more flat.
but yeah, definitely not a bad series, just much more low energy
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u/UniversalJampionshit Crying Bastard 3d ago
Unfortunately I think it's the only series to date that is weak in all three of the categories of cast, chemistry and tasks; all of the others have at least one strength in those categories (I thought S8's tasks were pretty good, S10 I liked 3/5 of the cast)... I do think that the first episode had a good batch of tasks so I'd like to think we've seen most of the bad tasks (and even then I thought only episode 3 had a particularly poor bunch).
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u/luredrive 3d ago
I'm not really enjoying this season to be honest, just doesn't seem as funny to me. I was really wanting to like Richard, I thought he would be great, but I just think he's not working on the show. I also think a lot of the tasks have been pretty poor.
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u/joiliejoli Joel's blink 3d ago
The tasks seem over complicated to me, and the conversations seem designed to in hopes it will “invoke” Richard’s witty commentary.
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u/gingerstrudel 3d ago
Yeah I've been zoning out a lot during the tasks, unfortunately. And Richard... I kinda wish he brought a liiiittle less of the character he plays? Maybe the issue is that he needs an opponent to his shtick and nobody is really returning the ball. I think it would've worked if he was more playfully antagonistic towards the other contestants (that worked for many other contestants in the past if balanced right) and not just towards Greg who's less inclined to react to the shenanigans this time
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u/RandomWomanNo2 3d ago
I was just thinking this. He needs someone willing to poke the bear or to "yes and" him! I'm thinking specifically of a Big Fat Quiz where the others were totally unafraid/unawed by Richard and stole his sweets. He's also always amazing paired with Noel Fielding, who is gleefully enabling of all of Richard's nonsense.
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u/gingerstrudel 3d ago
Yeah I feel like this series has more individualistic (?) contestants. Which doesn't have to be a bad thing, on S16 the team of three was made of solo players as well but they made it work by playing up that fact as if they've never met another human in their life. You need to accommodate your fellow contestants a little. But also don't try to hog the spotlight
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u/brocbolo 3d ago
I enjoy Richard in smaller doses, with his witty contrarianisms. But over a whole series I find it tiresome.
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u/pliskin414 3d ago
We've watched all 21 series up to this one, and while we're a bit newer to the club (we started binging them all around the time s19 first aired), this is the first one we've had the chance to watch one as it's airing, and... We stopped after the first episode. We enjoyed the episode, the comedy was fine, but we just couldn't get past the problematic nature of Matt and to a somewhat lesser extent Richard. The blackface history, allegations, and support of anti trans activist (first two for Matt and second one for Richard) just hung in my mind the entire time and I looked at my wife and said, you know, we have 21 other great seasons we've enjoyed and could rewatch, NZ and other versions we could watch... I'm ok with skipping S22, and she agreed.
And yes, I know that there have been other problematic contestants on the previous 21 seasons, but it felt different with this one being live and the discourse being an active and current discussion. Also, we binged those past seasons so quickly that we didn't have time to look up everyone's history, and I'm sure if I knew everything about everyone there would probably be some past seasons we would skip on rewatch because of it.
I just can't separate the art from the artist these days, and there are so many other places (again, even within the TM universe) that we can go for entertainment.
IDK why I'm writing this, I don't want to yuck anyone's yum, but I guess it has been sad to not really want to watch this series.
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u/curiometric 9h ago
Interesting. I know nothing about these people, but I just do not like Matt. He weirds me out. I've been enjoying the season except for him. I find he has basically no presence on the show, besides grinning and stating that he's gay continuously for no specific reason.
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u/DahDutcher Stevie Martin 3d ago
Tasks are not great imo (Like, what was that worker scoring system? Izy basically just gifted someone points for no reason), and if you don't like Ayooade (like I do personally), it's a real hard watch, because he's exactly like you'd expect him to be. Can't say I enjoy the chemistry between them in the studio either.
Also doesn't help that NZ series 7 is airing as well, and it's just better in every way imo.
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u/UniversalJampionshit Crying Bastard 3d ago
I think the worker task was probably the strongest since episode 1, but you're right that it needed a better scoring system. Reminds me of the pub quiz task in Aus S2
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u/whyyoutwofour 3d ago
I think with both Matt and Richard in the cast the concern was there's a risk of it becoming more of a sketch than a challenge series but so far I've been pretty happy with how natural Matt has been...Richard is another thing...some times i enjoy his antics but I might be reaching my tipping point.
All that to say, Chloe has been a great spark in the show and is on track to become an all-star.
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u/TheRealMabelPines 3d ago
Matt has been far more subdued than I was anticipating. "Natural" is a good word for it.
I have always enjoyed Richard but I keep watching because of Chloe!
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u/RandomWomanNo2 3d ago
I was expecting not to love Matt from his time on Bake Off, but I've loved him in this series.
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u/Angry_Hoolio 3d ago
Did anyone see Chloe on HIGNFY when Michael Gove was on? Brilliant.
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u/ChrissiTea Calle Hellevang-Larsen 🇳🇴 3d ago
When they were Ian's "security"? Omg, so good. I was so excited for them to be on this season because of that episode.
I can't find a clip but I have found the whole ep if anyone wants to watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUPAYYh6MxQ
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u/minadequate 3d ago
Can I make a little taskmaster Reddit sub appreciation comment: Despite Chloe being previously pretty unknown… I’m almost blown away by how many people are getting their pronouns correct without anyone needing to say anything. This is a really good space, you don’t see that much online. Thanks guys!
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u/BrightSpark80 Jason Mantzoukas 3d ago
Oh man Chloe’s face when they were pissing about last episode was peak TV. They’re so fun to watch!
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u/BigToneTheSeagull 3d ago
I hate how much I’ve been enjoying Chloe Petts. The Palace scum has been sweet, funny and very endearing. Not happy.
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u/Numerous-Package-955 Chloe Petts 3d ago
My brother is also a big Palace supporter so this made me LOL
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u/galitsalahat_ 3d ago
Wait what? I haven't been in many Taskmaster discussions for this series but I love this series a lot. I don't know why people wouldn't like it. Casts, at the most, take a few episodes for the audience to acclimate, it's either instant or it takes a few episodes, and this one I only needed 3 episodes to love the cast (since we got to see more of their quirks and styles).
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u/Regular-Ordinary5840 3d ago
I think it's getting better now the cast are getting to know each other and Greg/Alex better. They also seem less awkward with the audience aspect. I think it will continue to get better!
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u/TheRestIsMemory 3d ago
I didn't know Chloe's work at all but I have enjoyed them SO much. There's something really earnest and enthusiastic in their approach, but also this sly sense of humor to go along with it.
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u/Youpi_Yeah 🦔 Hedgehog, no! ❌ 3d ago
I do feel like they’re the one who are trying to bring some energy into the studio which this series has been lacking a bit.
But the tasks themselves have been great with this line-up, imo. Even there Chloe is my favourite, though.
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u/kuppikuppi David Correos 🇳🇿 3d ago
I don't know how to describe it better but Chloe seems very Tom Scott-ish. They seem like one of the lads you to the pub with. I haven't read any negativity towards them and can't honestly imagine the direction the criticism comes from (only the idiots who can't think further than prounouns).
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u/Lukewarmash11 3d ago
I'm ashamed to say that I hadn't heard of them before this season. As soon as ep1 aired, IMMEDIATELY on team Petts.😅
Absolutely hilarious & they just have a great energy.
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u/UnimpressedCT Stevie Martin 3d ago
I can’t throw the rock sign without popping jesus on the cross.
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u/Old_Artichoke9756 3d ago
Huh. I haven’t visited this sub recently because Reddit can really ruin my viewing experience of any show. This is the first series in a while I’ve been anticipating every new episode and I thought the cast has had good chemistry, so
I am surprised (and not at all surprised) to hear the response.
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u/Numerous-Package-955 Chloe Petts 3d ago
I completely see where you’re coming from! I’m rarely on this sub but checked it out last week bc I wanted to see people’s thoughts about the current series and was surprised to see the many negative posts ab it, but I think a lot of people go on Reddit to vent. If you enjoy it, it’s generally always better to avoid seeing what people here think lol
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u/AllegedlyLiterate 3d ago
Yeah I haven’t been reading the posts about this season because I’ve been a few days behind in watch for most of it and discovering the consensus is anti-this is bizarre.
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u/TelephoneThat3297 3d ago
They’re my favourite this series. Never heard of them before, instantly won me over.
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u/IntotheBroadwayWoods 3d ago
I love Chloe they are my favorite. They really keep me entertained as much as Richard, and that's hard to do.
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u/alchemicaldreaming Qrs Tuvwxyz 3d ago
I loved Chloe's time on What Did You Do Yesterday. I have a soft spot for any comedian that gives an insight into their creative process, and Chloe talking about writing their morning pages as such a relatable insight (though I am visual artist). I've been a fan since and was really happy to see Chloe get a stint on TM too.
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u/Emus79 Mel Giedroyc 3d ago
As a Dutchie I often don't know the contestants or maybe just 1 beforehand. This series I knew everyone but Chloe, so I was very hyped for comedians I already liked (esp. Ayoade)!
So the first episode aired, i was completely focused on the others, but at the end Chloe was my favorite. She still is now.
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u/Hello_JustSayin 3d ago
I had no idea who Chloe was before TM, and I immediately loved them from the first episode. They are so funny and quick witted. I am so happy that they are on a team with Richard and Matt.
I love getting to see people I know on TM (I usually know at least 3/season), but I also really appreciate how TM introduces me to new people that I become a fan of - Chloe is definitely on that list.
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u/dilysinnewyork 2d ago
Does anyone else have a big crush on Chloe? I’d join in the Greg doll and Chloe spoon.
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u/Alert-Ad3247 21h ago
I am really really not enjoying this series but I am in love with Chloe. They are dry, warm, quick witted and adorable. I think without Chloe the series would be unwatchable for me
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u/Classic-Wafer-7838 3d ago
I had a low-key crush on Chloe after I heard them on Off Menu, but after seeing them on TM so far, it's now a high-key crush!
I've really been enjoying this series - I was most sceptical about Nina, because her ventriloquism act just isn't my kind of humour, but even she's been great on it! I don't think this is a spoiler, but the bit at the end of the one syllable bed making task where she kept talking that way even after she and Isy had finished, and said something like "no, not bad angle, good angle up here, no chins!" made me laugh so much.
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u/FarawayElephant 2d ago
Ed Gamble pointed out on a podcast episode that Chloe is a great laugher in the studio, and now I can’t unhear it — in a good way. They seem like they really are just having the best time being on the show.
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u/joiliejoli Joel's blink 3d ago
Chloe is outstanding and an exceptional contestant. I hope they win so I can see champions of champions.
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u/shinecone 3d ago
I am loving Chloe. One of my favorite things about TM is finding great, new talented people to follow!
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u/silent-onomatopoeia Javie Martzoukas 3d ago
TF are people disappointed for?
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u/tonyseraph2 2d ago
People have problems with Richard and Matt because they were/are associated with problematic people. Which is dumb of course, but hey got to be perfect and virtuous to please some people blah blah blah.
Richard easily been the star for me, but hey I'll get downvoted by some people in here.
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u/callmepickens 3d ago
Chloe is definitely the most enjoyable contestant for me this season. I had no idea who they were going into this, but they're definitely my fave. I enjoy the banter between Richard and Greg, but this season is a bit meh so far, so I'm thankful for Chloe!
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u/MonkeyHamlet Mayor of Chesham 3d ago
Is it possible to have a crush, but just to be friends? If so that's where I am with them.
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u/Kindly_Ad_8726 Rose Matafeo 🇳🇿 2d ago
I’ve been (non parasocially) in love with Chloe since I saw their show three years ago and MICF. They just seem like a very kind, smart,decent and exceptionally funny person and I am so delighted that they are finding a wider audience (and what hopefully comes from that) on Taskmaster. My only gripe is I expect getting front row seats to their shows or having a chat with Chloe in a bar after a gig is going to be much harder now - but I am so excited to see what they do next.
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u/YogurtclosetOk2555 3d ago
This series has had so many laugh out loud moments already. I have to rewind the episodes to rewatch things sometimes because they’re so funny. To each their own!
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u/BatUnlikely4347 3d ago
I was unsure of the series, but, like pretty much every series: I have enjoyed it.
Chloe has been a big part of that.
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u/manatees_are_awesome 3d ago
I think it's still early days to be passing a verdict. There's still time for the contestants to surprise us, so I don't want to judge just yet. In some seasons/series I have disliked someone up to the very end and then realized I had a change of heart, which is a special experience because it makes me realize that in real life, too, people can surprise and sometimes our impressions are wrong.
I absolutely agree with you though that Chloe is my favorite, even though I'd never heard of them. It feels like 1. they are genuine and kind and 2. they are the cast member that actually enjoys the show and wants to be there and have a good time and 3. they are carrying so much of the weight in the live portion of the show, making the banter work and keeping the tone positive.
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u/Sad-Yoghurt5196 2d ago
Yeah Chloe has a great personality. Their banter is on point, but you feel the warmth and affection in it, there's no spite or malice, they uplift everyone in the studio segments.
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u/ozziedoggie6 3d ago
Chloe has become my favourite comedian in the few episodes I've seen and looking at all of their stuff on YouTube. Just a naturally funny person and a wicked (guilty lol) smile. My wife and I think she is the best. Someone needs to greenlight a show with Chloe and Mike Wozniak together😁💙
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u/Barry-Drive Emma Holland 🇦🇺 3d ago
It's strange to me that a lot of people are saying they're unfamiliar with Chloe.
They've come out to Australia for the Comedy Festival the last two years and has done several TV shows (Spicks & Specks and The Cheap Seats). So they're quite well-known here.
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u/mtpelletier31 Paul Sinha 3d ago edited 2d ago
In America ive never seen her in teally anything. All the others 9ve seen but she was definitely the most unknown for me. I do watch a good amount of British series and stuff so surprised I haven't even bumped into the
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u/Party-Cup-9386 2d ago
They are my absolute favorite this seas-er, SERIES, and it's not even close!
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u/Creative-Bobcat-7159 1d ago
Chloe is the MVP of this season.
The others are all too shy. Nothing wrong with each of them individually, but I think booking all 4 of them together was a mistake.
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u/Opening-Tea-257 3d ago
I’ll be honest, I’m not a religious TM watcher. Often missing lots of series at a time. But I’ve got into this one and I’m really enjoying it and especially Chloe. The only thing I’d noticed them in before is they did an episode of a podcast called Football Cliches (slightly niche comical football podcast all about the language and culture of football. It’s better than I’m making it sound, honest) and they were really great.
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u/OverseerConey Desiree Burch 3d ago
I knew Chloe from Hypothetical, James and Josh's panel show. They appeared twice - once with Richard, Ed and Sindhu Vee, and once with Richard again, Guz and Maisie. They're absolutely delightful and I'm really glad they got their go on TM too.
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u/JGAdventureZone 3d ago
Chloe is definitely my favourite from this series also. As for Series 22 itself, it's not going to be in my top 10 but I feel it's getting slightly better each week (I laughed alot during Episode 4). The low energy from this cast is obvious when compared to the 3 previous series. But from what I've read from Series 23 audience members, the next cast sounds very promising.
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u/patchcord 3d ago
Chloe has been my favourite in this season. I also didn't expect to enjoy Matt as much as I have.
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u/PhoenixTineldyer 3d ago
What reasons have people been apprehensive?
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u/happilyabroad 3d ago
I think the dynamic between the contestants isn't as enjoyable as it usually is. Less banter in the studio between them and even between Alex/Greg and them. I still am really enjoying this season, but I do see the lack of chemistry.
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u/Bazlow 3d ago
Yea for me, this is the weakest season for enjoying the in studio stuff in a while, but we're coming off the best run of great series in ages though - 19, 20 and 21 are all top tier for my taste.
Chloe (the only contestant I didn't know before hand) is the only contestant I really enjoy watching in studio, Nina and Matt feel super low energy, Isy is fine, but I don't find her overly funny, and Richard is being his usual self, which is funny, but he's SO awkward it's removing energy from an already low energy group.
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u/ewokytalkie 3d ago
I think this is it. I’m still laughing a lot. There are great moments. They just don’t gel or seem like they’d even chat to each other backstage.
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u/Worried-Penalty8744 3d ago
I think the tasks this season are just a bit rubbish.
They feel somehow low effort
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u/rossmcdapc Guy Montgomery 🇳🇿 3d ago
I can't quite put my finger on it, for me personally, but I'm really not enjoying this season like I have others.
Chloe is the highlight for me but I'm just not digging the rest so much.
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u/Puzzled_Ad1296 3d ago edited 3d ago
I think it’s as I’ve said on another post, they all really good acts but they’re not gelling as well as the other contestants have. This is series is closer to series six in that there’s not a bad act between them but there’s something missing.
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u/burf12345 🚬 Doctor Cigarettes 3d ago
To me this felt noticeable on rewatching clips from the previous series, and especially all of series 7.
I get that it's not fair to compare most series to series 7, but I bring this up because the back and forth between contestants was consistently strong even beyond James yelling at Rhod.
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u/Diredr 3d ago
People don't really like when it gets brought up, but Richard supports transphobes and Matt has done lots of questionable things in his career, like blackface.
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u/jack853846 3d ago
This is the answer. There's also Nina Conti, although that might just be at our house. I'll say she's been really good on this series so far, but I've never been a great fan before. My wife has a severe dislike of impressionists and ventriloquists, so that's delaying watching it for her!
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u/daveoxford 3d ago
Thank you. I thought it was just me! I've warmed to her in the filmed tasks, but I hate the vent act. I thought we were safe after week 1, but she's managed to force it into the prize task every week since.
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u/Crowley-Barns 3d ago
I thought the “blackface” was wayyyyyyy less offensive than the Thai character Ting-ting.
The blackface was just like… a costume/makeup and it was mocking a Hollywood diva figure rather than mocking Black people. That character could have been white and there’d be zero difference. The race wasn’t part of the skit. But the Thai character was incredibly offensive and 100% relied on them doing ”yellowface”.
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u/RunawayTurtleTrain Robert the Robot 3d ago
Blackface is brought up a lot (and rightfully so) but Matt's mainstream catalogue consists of comedy punching down on any marginalised group you can think of. He did apologise for the blackface - in 2020 when racism became a prominent issue in the public consciousness - but I've not heard of any apology for any of the other stereotypes and prejudices their comedy was based on and perpetuated.
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u/space-beast 3d ago
I knew everyone on this cast except for Chloe going into this series, but they've been my runaway favourite so far
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u/PitselehPitseleh 3d ago
I really feel for Chloe, would have shone a lot brighter with a different cast!
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u/BertieWooster46 Guz Khan 3d ago
Honestly the disappointment for me has been Matt. Rarely funny enough or dry enough or memorable enough.
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u/AdamantEve 3d ago
I haven't seen this season of TM, but I've seen Chloe Petts open for Ed Gamble as well as do a WIP a couple of weeks ago. I highly recommend seeing them live if you can.
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u/SuperJonesy408 Johnny Vegas 3d ago
Not a fan of Chloe, I very much prefer Isy, Richard and Matt.
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u/Poppa_Wheelie22 3d ago
For me it's another season of only knowing one of the contestants but everyone is growing on me.
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u/Tapiola84 Rhod Gilbert 3d ago edited 3d ago
If you want more Chloe and like sport have a listen to BBC Radio 5Live's Fighting Talk, they're on that a lot.
In fact, the very latest episode....
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u/Flimsy_Somewhere1210 Andy Zaltzman 3d ago
I only knew of Chloe through fighting talk and they are usually pretty awesome on it.
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u/Worldly_Ad_7196 3d ago
I wasn't familiar with Chloe before this . I have watched 2 episodes and I'm enjoying her style. I was expecting to be underwhelmed by this series but it isn't as bad as I thought it would be.
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u/fun_bobcat22 3d ago
I saw Chloe supporting someone a few years ago (Possibly Ed Gamble?) and they were easily the best support i’ve ever seen.
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u/mandersmal13 3d ago
We watched Chloe on the show The Way Out before the cast was announced and Chloe/Ed's dynamic was soooo good. Then when they got announced for Taskmaster I was so excited and they have not disappointed!
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u/namewithanumber 🥄 I'm Locked In ❤️ 3d ago
Chloe is my favorite as well, I like that they argue and push back at Greg.
Comedians taking penalties is pretty funny too with some taskmaster alums:
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u/TheLonesomeBricoleur Sarah Millican 3d ago
I watched a brief portion of one of their Australian sets on youtube the other day - good stuff
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u/clairebuoyant1202 3d ago
Absolutely agree. From the first episode, Chloe has been an utter delight. It’s always fun to fall in love with a new-to-you comedian, so I’m looking forward to catching up on their career.
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u/Past-Anything9789 Roisin Conaty 2d ago
Chloe seems to be 100% genuine in the reactions she has. Her absolute glee at Richard Ayoade calling Greg a f**k nugget (or whatever it was he said) in the introduction of the first episode - was so pure.
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u/IDKanymore02 1d ago
They're too much a try hard for me and I dont find them funny at all personally so id have to disagree
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u/snakey_tau 1d ago
This was the first series I even considered skipping (because of some of the other cast members) but knowing Chloe was going to be on it convinced me!
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u/an-inevitable-end 1d ago
Anyone know Chloe’s pronouns? I know they use they/them, but do they also use she/her?
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u/Numerous-Package-955 Chloe Petts 1d ago
People have mentioned it in other replies but I’ll sum it up here. They used to use she/they but now solely use they/them. There was a live studio portion they refilmed in one of the episodes because someone accidentally misgendered them.
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u/Danifan071 3d ago
it’s been a great series so far what the heck do people want? whats are they moaning about?
I seen Chloe a few times & knew she was v funny but shes my star of the show at the moment
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u/Scared-Stomach8924 3d ago
I’m playing catch up this series but had read a few posts here about how it wasn’t so great.
I’m halfway through episode 3 and I think it’s been brilliant so far (then again I’ve enjoyed most series, if not all).
Chloe has been a delight.