by Chris Hardwick already hosts an Emmy-winning fake game show, so why not have him host a real one with real cash prizes?
That’s just what NBC ordered.
NBC gave the green light today to 10 primetime episodes of a game show series, The Wall, which Hardwick will host and executive produce along with Maverick Carter, Andrew Glassman and LeBron James. Yes, LeBron.
“I love game shows, and partnering with LeBron James and NBC to potentially give away millions of dollars to people who deserve it is an incredible opportunity. (I’m sorry, NBC, I’m hoping to give away a lot of your money.),” Hardwick said in the accompanying press release.
“I’m excited about this series because it’s different than anything on TV right now,” James said. “It’s got everything – excitement, drama, and action – and it’s something the entire family can watch and root for together. I believe Chris Hardwick brings all of that together in a really entertaining way that people will enjoy. For SpringHill Entertainment, it’s about creating quality and innovative content for all types of audiences, and I’m proud of the exciting projects we continue to be a part of.”
SpringHill is the studio James and Carter run, which also is responsible for the Starz comedy series, Survivor’s Remorse.
Hardwick already hosts two other series, @Midnight late-night Mondays-Thursdays on Comedy Central and Talking Dead on AMC Sunday nights after The Walking Dead, as well as his popular podcast The Nerdist, and overseeing the Nerdist website and various projects.
As for The Wall, it’ll feature two-person teams playing a bouncing ball and peg game that sounds akin to “Plinko” on The Price is Right, only the teams must also answer trivia questions to decide if they win the cash amounts on which the balls fall.
“The Wall is a bit like life, it rewards people who are both smart and lucky. It’s a game that’s had us on the edge of our seats, and Chris Hardwick is a brilliantly witty and warm host,” said Paul Telegdy, President, Alternative and Late Night Programming, NBC Entertainment.
It’s developed by Glassman Media in conjunction with CORE Media.
NBC has yet to announce where on the 2016 primetime schedule The Wall will land.
Somewhere along the line, something will have to give for Chris Hardwick. I have a feeling that it will be the podcast, which will be a damn shame.