Becoming a Game Show Contestant

Games shows- from the silly to the super-intelligent- offer entertainment to masses and a chance for everyday people to earn cash and prizes. Whether you're seeking fame or fortune (or both), becoming a game show contestant is guaranteed to give you an interesting story for the future!

There are dozens of shows out there, and thousands of people clamoring for their chance at big bucks. To further your chances for the big time, follow these tips:

1. Watch the show. It's common sense- if you don't know what you're doing, you won't get on, much less win the game. Make sure you understand all the rules, and try to memorize as much as you can. For example, try to remember prices for The Price is Right. Be familiar with all the aspects of the show, so when your time comes, you are prepared.

2. Play the game(s). It is also good to 'play' as much as you can before trying out. Play while watching the show, play on board games, play online, play with your friends, play while you sleep! Practice as much as possible before trying out! And remember, it will be different playing under studio lights in front of a large audience. Prepare yourself for stress- and possible embarrassment!

3. Dress Right. For some shows you will have to 'audition' for the part. Dress appropriately. This goes back to watching the show- try not to under or overdress. Remember this is your big shining moment- you want to look good, but you also want to recognizable to your friends and family.

4. Act the part. Follow previous (successful) contestant's examples. Some shows expect contestants to display a lot of enthusiasm- even silliness. Others want more sober contestants. No matter what the show, smile. Smile at the host, the other contestants, the audience, and directly into the camera. Make sure they know you are having the time of your life (even if you are most definitely not).

5. Follow the rules. Each show has its own set of rules- make sure you follow them, or you could forest any winnings. And remember you do have to pay taxes on your winnings.

Ready to try your hand at winning the jackpot? Check out these popular game shows- good luck!

Deal or No Deal (NBC)
Talent is not necessary to get on this popular game show- all you need are a few friends and lots of personality! For your chance to win a million dollars, first choose the supporters you want to appear with you on the show. You should pick people you trust- it will also help if they are smart (attractive probably wouldn't hurt, either)! Then you will need to make a five-minute VHS tape of you and your friends. Just start with your name and where you are from, then wow them with what you would do with a one million dollars. Be creative, be tragic, be silly- just get their attention and make them want you on their show. And don't forget to label the tape with your name, address, and phone number- and rewind the tape before you send it in!

The next step is to fill out an application, including pictures of yourself and each supporter- preferably a close-up and body shot of each. Label these, too. Send your tape and application to:

DEAL OR NO DEAL CASTING
PO Box 38903
Los Angeles, CA 90038-0903

While you're waiting for that call-back, why dont' you practice with the online version of the game?

The Price Is Right (CBS)
There are several great things about being a contestant on one of America's longest running game shows: you get to meet Bob Barker, you can win a wide variety of prizes and cash, and (best of all) it is requires no difficult tasks! To be a potential
The Price Is Right contestant, you must first become part of the audience. You can request your free tickets online, write in, or pick tickets up the Ticket Booth. To request your tickets by writing, send a SASE with the dates and number of tickets needed, to:

The Price is Right
7800 Beverly Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036

Your tickets will be mailed 2-4 weeks before the shows airs. Monday shows are at 1:15 and 4:30; Tuesday through Thursday tapings are at 2:30. Tickets for the shows are generally available for pick-up approximately two weeks prior to taping and up to one day before the show. You can call 323-575-2449 for ticket information.

Admission is on a first-come basis, so get there early and bring your valid ID, along with a document including your social security number. Advanced booked groups of 20-25 people will receive guaranteed seats. Groups should call 323-575-2448.
On taping days, CBS will issue 'priority numbers' starting at 8:00 in the morning. Ticket holders with a priority numbers will
be processed- this is where you get your chance to become a contestant.

The production staff will conduct a short interview with each potential candidate, choosing contestants from this pool. Needless to say, this is where you should wow them with your great personality! They are looking for ebullience- show your excitement. If you have watched the show, you know that women (young, pretty college girls and sweet/funny old ladies), soldiers, and true 'characters' are often the ones picked.

Family Feud (Freemantle Media)
Join host Richard Karn on America's funnies family game show, and compete for your chance at $20,000. To be a contestant, you must first choose four of your family members to join you. Of course, you should attempt to pick the brightest and/or best looking for better chances! To be a contestant, call 1-818-260-5800 and leave your name, address, and phone number. The show will contact you if they want an interview. Follow the tips above and hope for the best!

Jeopardy (Sony Pictures)
The ultimate quiz show of intelligence, you won't get on this show with personality alone. Jeopardy has long been known as show for geniuses, so apply only if you are sure you have the stuff. Many people feel the test to be a contestant if more difficult than the show itself- if that is possible. Passing the test is only the first step to becoming a contestant. If you are chosen (and no, passing the test does not guarantee you will picked for stage two), you will be called back for an interview. Potential contestants are participate in a mock Jeopardy show- this is where watching the show previously will kick in.
Wanna-be contestants can register to take the test online, or take it manually at a testing center.

Wheel of Fortune (Sony Pictures)
Want to spin the big wheel on America's highest-rated prime time game show? Then join Pat Sajak and Vanna White by first preparing to wait at least a year. Since Wheel of Fortune is considered to be a pretty easy win, there are nearly a million applicants per season- and only roughly 600 get chosen.

The first step is complete an application. The show does require pre-auditions and interviews. Applicants are either chosen and invited a regional hotel, or picked at random when the Wheelmobile comes through their area. . A few dozen potential contestants are pulled together to play mock game, along with a short test based on the type of word puzzles seen on the show. A few people are chosen, and another round of interviews and mock games are played. Don't expect to leave knowing whether you have been chosen- they mail out letters to the 'winners'. These interview and mock games are your chance to convince the production staff to pick you- be funny, fair, speak loudly, and show a lot of energy.