A fascinating piece of television history has resurfaced online, giving football fans a glimpse into the impressive intellect that appears to run in Jude Bellingham’s family. Recently rediscovered footage shows Jude Bellingham’s grandfather, William Bellingham, competing on the legendary BBC quiz show Mastermind in 1987. Facing the programme’s iconic original host, Magnus Magnusson, William tackled the highly specialised subject of Nigeria between 1900 and 1966.

His performance was nothing short of exceptional. William answered 15 of 17 questions correctly and completed the round without passing on a single question, demonstrating an extraordinary depth of knowledge on a challenging and niche historical topic.

William’s life was as varied as it was accomplished. After serving in the British Army, he worked for Guinness in Nigeria and later spent time teaching in Singapore. He eventually returned to England, where he became a respected teacher at Southend High School for Boys, remaining there until his retirement in 1995.

He was also the father of Mark Bellingham, making him the grandfather of England and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.

Sadly, William passed away in November 2020, just months before Jude made his senior England debut at the age of 17. Although he never got to witness his grandson’s rise on the international stage, his influence clearly remains strong within the family.

Speaking after England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia last month, Jude reflected on his grandfather’s deep love for his country and the impact he continues to have on him.

“I think about my grandad, who passed away just before my England debut,” Bellingham said.

“He was so patriotic. He was an Englishman through and through. He could give you every fact about every war, every battle, every king and queen. I do think about him when that moment is coming.”

The resurfaced Mastermind appearance has also sparked plenty of admiration from fans online, particularly among followers our TSB Residents on Instagram.

One Resident wrote: “He makes me feel like I’m not even Nigerian at all. I only knew like one answer to all them questions. Big up Mr OluwaWilliam Bellingham.”

Another highlighted the difficulty of William’s chosen subject: “History of Nigeria from 1900-1966 is very niche knowledge, quite impressive.”

Others suggested his expertise surpassed that of some modern politicians. “Man knew the history of Nigeria far more than the Nigerian leaders of today. Goated.”

Many were equally impressed by the dedication required to acquire such knowledge in an era before the internet. “The fact that there wasn’t Google at this point, he learnt all these the old manual way by flipping through books, newspapers and living the experience.”

More than three decades after his Mastermind appearance, William Bellingham’s remarkable display of knowledge continues to resonate with viewers. For many fans, the footage offers a revealing insight into the family background of one of football’s brightest stars — and perhaps explains where Jude Bellingham inherited both his intelligence and determination.