How to Get on the Deal or No Deal TV Show

Most of us spend our time when watching Deal or No Deal doing one of two things: yelling at the bold stupidity of contestants blowing their chances, or holding our ears when they shriek into their microphones.

There are some we cheer for -- not that icky "banker," though -- and dream about what we would do if given our chance at the game show.

Here's what to do to try and get that chance.

Check out www.nbc.com for the open casting calls in specific cities and states. If you can't attend one of these, see below.

If you do attend the casting call, be aware that you may have to pay parking or an admission fee to get in. However, the show guarantees that everyone showing up at a casting call will be seen.

If a casting call is not available, put together a 5-minute VHS videotape of both you and the supporters you would bring to DOND, and sell yourself to the producers. Include your name and city, with a little about yourself.

Legibly mark your tape with your name, address and contact number, making sure to rewind the tape for additional points with producers. Provide a description of what you would do if able to win the $1,000,000. NBC is primarily interested in becoming acquainted with you as an individual, so they want you to "show us your personality."

Competition is fierce, however. The show receives 7,000-8,000 tapes per month, with only 10 people to sort and check them out!

Download an application for the show from the website and fill it out in dark ink. Write only on the printed side of the application; add extra sheets if necessary. You will need Adobe Reader to download the form; the NBC website also offers you a free copy of Adobe if you don't already have it.

Producers are looking for honest and thoughtful answers. Make sure to also sign it.

Expect creative questions that will need equally creative answers. You must draw a self-portrait, write a rap or short poem, and talk about your most embarrassing moment, among other topics.

Include recent photos of you and everyone from your group. Send two good pics of each person -- one each close up and full body -- and label the backs with their names and phone numbers.

Include a copy of your driver's license.

Expect the tape and photos to not be returned.

Know that you must be at least 18 years old, and a legal resident of the United States. You also cannot be a politician - and not be expected to be one until at least one year after your show appearance, if you are selected as a contestant.

You nor your immediate family or residential members, also can't be connected with the show in any way within the past two years.

Send the package to the contestant department at: Deal or No Deal Casting, P.O. 1916, Culver City, CA 90232. Verify the latest address at the website before sending.

To re-cap: Try practicing with the online game to have a better feel for the rhythm and to test your acumen.

Only one application per person is allowed. And, do not call the show to see if you are selected. If you are, they will contact you.

Be prepared to reveal any arrests, evictions, litigation, or school/work/military disciplinary proceedings, among other nebulous matters. Keep up-to-date on requirements like not having been on any game/talk/reality shows within the past two years, or appearing on one that will be aired in the next year.

Visit: http://www.screwthebanker.com for more input.

Warning: Do not apply stickers or art to the application, spray it with scents, or include cutesy extras like confetti.