Whether you want riches, fame, a new job, or a new wardrobe, one of the quickest and cheapest ways to get there is by appearing on a game or reality TV show. Ever wondered how those people get on the screen? Below are tricks and tips for getting on some of the most popular shows.
The Price Is Right
Bob Barker is gone, but the show must go on. If you would like to be a contestant, you can get tickets one of three ways. The easiest way is online. You can also pick up tickets on the day of the show at the ticket booth. Or you could go the old-fashioned way and write them to request tickets. All the information you need is here.
But this only gets you in the door. To actually become a contestant, you can try these things. First, get there early—like 2 a.m. early. Apparently, they’ll do screening interviews with people who are at the front of the line. Also, they like to represent different demographics, so wear a college sweatshirt or a military uniform. Of course, acting like a wild animal while waiting in line will probably work; they seem to like the crazy folks with airbrushed t-shirts who laugh at everything and are psycho-excited about the show.
Insider’s Tip: When waiting in line, the bagel shop across the street will rent you a chair for $5. Photo source: Kristin Brenemen (cc)
The Amazing Race
This is an amazing race in itself, but the teams and their trials (meaning drama) are what make it even better. The producers of the show want “teams of dynamic individuals with a relationship that really ‘sparks’ in response to things like stress, fatigue, hunger, and fear of the unknown.” They also want people who can vocalize their thoughts and feelings with emotion and honesty.
To get on the show, you have to fill out a detailed application and create a three-minute video that demonstrates why you and your teammate(s) would be perfect for the show. The only advice they give—personality counts. For information and a link to the rules and the application, click here.
Insider’s Tip: Learn how to drive a stick shift and be an American citizen. Photo source: mlaaker on flickr (cc)
Jeopardy
The first step to getting on is taking an online test, which is only given a few days out of the year, except in Culver City, CA, where testing is year-round. All the local auditions are filled with people who passed the online test. They also have a traveling Brain Bus where you can take a pre-test and qualify for an audition.
If you pass the online test, you’re put into their active files for eighteen months, during which you may be called to interview. If selected, you will take a fifty-question written test, which will be considered along with your online test for your application. After the written test, everyone participates in a mock game, complete with buzzers, and is then interviewed. Check out their FAQ for more information.
Insider’s Tip: Watch the show; upcoming online tests are only announced on air. Photo source: Kristin Brenemen on flickr (cc)
The Apprentice
If you hold dreams (or nightmares) of working for Donald Trump, get started by creating a five-minute video showing the producers why you should be on the show. Fill out the application and mail both to the address provided here. If you’re selected, you will be interviewed in a city near you.
You might think that candidates are from humble origins, looking for their big break, but that’s not always the case. Many contestants are quite advanced and successful in their careers. Also, if selected, you’ll undergo extensive medical examinations, IQ tests, a FBI background check, and psychological tests.
Insider’s Tip: Be for real; don’t fake your skills or exaggerate experience. With questions like, “How much of your company’s net profit can you claim to be personally responsible for?” you’d better know what you’re talking about. Photo source: WalkingGeek on flickr (cc)
