Tonight cult 90s game show The Crystal Maze finally returned to Channel 4 for a one-off episode – but did you understand why Doctor Who was name dropped at the beginning?

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Well, a couple of months ago, news of the revival was leaked early, with ex-Doctor Who star David Tennant named as a possible presenter. UK outlets (including RadioTimes.com) duly reported the rumour – only for Channel 4 to reveal that it was Stephen Merchant, and not Tennant, who would actually take the hosting role.

Talk about stealing your (oncoming storm) thunder…

Accordingly, tonight’s special threw in a cheeky reference to the media storm in its opening scenes, as Merchant spoke to original Crystal Maze host Richard O’Brien (returning in a cameo) through a screen to gain access to the game.

Discussing Merchant’s new role as host, O’Brien quipped: "I'll tell you who would've been good. That chap that played Doctor Who,” with Merchant irritably retorting, “He’s not available!”

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So while we may never know where the David Tennant rumour came from, it’s good to know that Channel 4 can keep a decent sense of humour about the whole affair.

Maybe someone just thought the former time traveller would fit right in with the Future Zone?

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Stand Up to Cancer will air on Channel 4 this Friday 21st October from 7.00pm

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