The show is based around making audience members' wishes come true, featuring ordinary people living out their fantasies for real. There are no rules as to who can appear on the show, it features ordinary members of the public nominated by friends who think they have a hidden talent or other special reason. Every guest has the help of Barrowman and other celebrity guests. The studio audience are also involved in the show, as John surprises unsuspecting members of the public, making their wishes come true on the night even if they hadn't signed up for the show. It contains at its heart elements of classic 1980s entertainment shows, such as Surprise, Surprise, Jim'll Fix It, and Beadle's About.