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Countdown 'orgasms' twice in a week

The climactic verb appeared twice amid the vowels and consonants

Antonia Molloy
Thursday 28 August 2014 12:00 EDT
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Rachel Riley smiles as the word "orgasmed" is spelled out
Rachel Riley smiles as the word "orgasmed" is spelled out (Channel 4)

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Things are hotting up at Countdown after the vowels and consonants on Rachel Riley's board aligned to spell out the word "orgasmed".

Viewers watching on Tuesday may been surprised to find the Channel 4 quiz show stimulating more than just their intellect as lexicographer Susie Dent and guest Angelica Bell rearranged the jumble of letters to reach a climactic outcome.

Co-host Rachel Riley appeared rather amused on the usually strait-laced afternoon show.

But it would appear that once wasn't enough. The following day an anagram of "orgasmed" was created - but this time contestants failed to spot the hidden word. However, eagle-eyed Radio Times journalist Paul Jones did spot the flush-inducing verb, and duly pointed it out to the Twitterverse.

In fact, Countdown has climaxed before. In November 2013 Dent and guest Alistair McGowan spotted "orgasmed" on the dictionary board, as host Nick Hewer kept a straight face.

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