It’s my favorite time of year on this site. The boring summer where I barely have anything fun to offer is almost up and it’s time for all your favorite game shows to come back for a new season of tapings. The casting is basically over but you can still be in the audience, which is a lot of fun. Many shows are leaving Los Angeles to go across the coast so if you’re near the New York City area, there’s lots of chances for you to get in the action. Not only that but we get lots of emails asking us about their favorite shows. Here’s a list of the big game shows last year and if they are returning or not.
Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?: If you’re looking for the primetime million dollar version, I wouldn’t count on it. It’s basically canceled at this point. However, the daytime version is taping and looking for audiences by clicking here. The format for the daytime edition is far better, using a new bank-building game play with the chance to multiply your money by ten in the final bonus question. Up to $250,000 can be won. I wasn’t a fan of the primetime version, but this new edition looks interested and I’ll be sure to watch.
Catch 21: Nothing is set in stone yet, obviously, as the second season just ended. However, the ratings for this new season were at the top of Game Show Network’s list each week. The show also wound up being pretty under budget which is why you saw some of the $50,000 episodes. Of course I can’t guarantee a third GSN season but as of this morning when I last heard from sources, I wouldn’t be remotely shocked to see it pop back up. I’m hoping, too. I enjoy it. The production this season was by far better but for the love of whatever you believe in please get better, less annoying contestants. The amount of people who don’t know how to add 13 and 8 was staggering.
Deal or No Deal: Let’s just get this settled; the primetime version is canceled for now. I wouldn’t be completely shocked to see it spring up somewhere along the road but for now no more million dollar episodes. The half million dollar daytime version begins taping in its new location of Connecticut soon, though. People in that area wishing to sit in the audience can click here. It’s going to be interesting to see what they do this season. I’m really curious if they shipped that huge set across the country or if they’re getting a new-ish look.
Don’t Forget the Lyrics: Simply put, don’t be expecting this back.
Family Feud: As we’ve said repeatedly, Family Feud is returning for a record 11th season, making it the longest lasting version of the show ever. Lots of changes are coming this season, including a new Bullseye round making the end game worth a potential $30,000. Also, any family that wins five days wins a car. It’s extremely exciting and we’ll have more on that later. If you want to be in the audience, visit the ticketing website here. Go to the Feud website to see how you can be a contestant.
Jeopardy!: It’s no shock to anyone that Jeopardy! will be returning in the Fall. Airing now is the special Kid’s Week episodes so if you suck at the regular show and want to feel like a genius, you’re in luck! You can always find out more about casting and audiences at their website.
Newlywed Game: GSN’s first season of the revival of Newlywed Game edited a few weeks ago. I enjoyed it and apparently quite a few others did as well. It rated pretty highly and had one of the highest opening weeks of any GSN show in quite some time. As with Catch 21 I’m hearing very positive things about a second season, so stay tuned.
The Price is Right: The 38th season of the show currently hosted by Drew Carey is still around and kicking. Click here to get tickets and possibly be a contestant. You can also read Drew Carey’s Twitter here and see his behind-the-scenes look at the show.
Wheel of Fortune: Needless to say this will be coming back and you know to look on the show’s website for audience and contestant information. They are airing new episodes this week so be sure to check if we get another millionaire.
Who Wants to be a Millionaire: Coming back as well, no surprise. If you’ve been reading this site at all you’re well aware that ABC is currently looking for contestants for its tenth anniversary edition airing in August. The ABC version will be the same thing as the current daytime version, including the clock, new lifelines, and dollar values. The Regis Philbin edition tapes in a few weeks and you can pick up tickets here. The Meredith Vieira edition has a funky schedule, but you can sit in the audience for that one here. I had a blast when I went last time and if you’re in the New York City area, definitely think about it.
If I missed any show just comment it and I’ll tell you what I’m hearing about it.