Game shows have been a staple of television entertainment for decades, captivating audiences with their exciting challenges and generous cash prizes. But what many people don’t realize is that the revenue generated by these shows goes far beyond just advertising revenue. In this article, we will explore some lesser-known game show revenue generators that have become the hidden gems of the industry.

1. Licensing and Merchandising

One lucrative revenue stream for game shows is the licensing and merchandising of their brand. From board games and video games to clothing and home decor, game shows have turned their popularity into a profitable business. For example, “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune” have their own line of board games, allowing fans to recreate the excitement in their own living rooms.

Furthermore, the success of game show-themed merchandise has opened doors for partnerships with major retailers, resulting in additional financial gains for the shows. For instance, “The Price Is Right” collaborates with online retailers to sell merchandise featuring their iconic logo.

2. International Syndication

Many game shows have found immense success by syndicating their formats internationally. By licensing their shows to foreign broadcasters, game show producers and networks can earn substantial revenue from various countries around the world. “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” is a prime example of a game show that has achieved global success through international syndication.

Foreign broadcasters often purchase the rights to adapt and localize the format, ensuring that local audiences can connect with the show. This not only generates revenue through licensing fees but also opens the door for potential advertising partnerships in different markets.

3. Sponsorship Deals

Game shows attract a wide range of viewers, making them an attractive platform for sponsorship deals. Companies looking to promote their products or services can collaborate with game shows, resulting in integrated sponsorships that seamlessly blend into the show’s format. Brands often sponsor segments or offer prizes in exchange for product placements or advertising during the show.

For example, “Family Feud” has partnered with companies like Ford and Carnival Cruise Line to incorporate their products into the show’s challenges and offer special prizes to contestants.

4. Live Audience Revenue

While the focus of game shows is often on television viewers, the revenue generated from the live audience should not be overlooked. Game shows that allow the audience to participate by cheering, clapping, or even becoming contestants themselves create an electrifying atmosphere that attracts people to attend in person.

To monetize the live audience, game shows sell tickets for tapings, creating an additional revenue stream. Moreover, the presence of a live audience enhances the overall experience for viewers at home and contributes to the show’s success.

5. Product Placement

Product placement is another revenue generator that game shows leverage. By strategically featuring and promoting certain products within the show’s episodes, game shows can secure financial partnerships with companies willing to pay for the exposure.

For instance, “The Price Is Right” incorporates product placements seamlessly into the gameplay, showcasing various brands and their products to millions of viewers. This approach benefits both the game show and the brands, as it reaches a wide audience and creates brand awareness.

6. Online and Mobile Apps

In the digital era, game shows have expanded their revenue streams by creating online and mobile apps. These apps offer fans the opportunity to engage with their favorite shows outside of television, providing a more interactive experience.

Through in-app purchases and advertising revenue, game show apps have become a profitable venture. Shows like “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” and “The Price Is Right” have embraced this trend, allowing fans to play along and compete for virtual prizes.

7. Syndicated Reruns

Reruns may not sound exciting, but for game shows, they are a significant source of revenue. Successful game shows are often syndicated and rerun on various networks, both nationally and internationally. These reruns generate additional advertising revenue and exposure for the show.

Moreover, syndicated reruns allow new viewers to discover the show long after its original run, further expanding its fan base and potential revenue streams.

8. Celebrity Specials and Spin-Offs

Game shows often capitalize on the popularity of celebrities by hosting special episodes or spin-offs featuring well-known personalities. By bringing in celebrities, game shows not only attract a larger audience but also open doors for sponsorship deals and partnerships with brands associated with those celebrities.

For example, “Celebrity Jeopardy!” has become a highly anticipated event, with renowned personalities showcasing their knowledge for a charitable cause. Such specials generate substantial revenue through increased advertising rates and sponsorship opportunities.

9. Digital Reboots and Streaming Platforms

With the rise of streaming platforms, game shows have found new life through digital reboots. Channels like Netflix and Hulu have started airing game show revivals, offering an alternative platform for viewers to enjoy their favorite shows.

Digital reboots generate revenue through licensing deals with streaming platforms and advertising revenue unique to the digital space. This allows game shows to reach a broader audience and tap into the growing popularity of online streaming.

10. Event Sponsorships

Game shows often organize live events, such as stage shows, tours, and competitions, which create opportunities for event sponsorships. Local businesses, as well as national brands, can collaborate with game shows to sponsor these events in exchange for increased exposure and brand visibility.

By leveraging event sponsorships, game shows can not only cover the production costs of the events but also generate additional revenue that contributes to the overall success and longevity of the show.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How do game shows make money?

Game shows make money through various revenue generators, including advertising, licensing and merchandising, international syndication, sponsorship deals, live audience revenue, product placement, online and mobile apps, syndicated reruns, celebrity specials and spin-offs, digital reboots, and event sponsorships.

2. Are game show prizes taxable?

Yes, in most cases, game show prizes are subject to federal and state taxes. Contestants are responsible for reporting the value of the prizes they win and paying the associated taxes.

3. Do game shows pay for travel expenses?

It depends on the show. Some game shows cover travel expenses for contestants, while others do not. It is best to refer to the specific rules and regulations of each game show to determine if travel expenses are covered.

4. Can anyone audition for a game show?

Yes, most game shows allow anyone who meets the eligibility requirements to audition. These requirements typically include age restrictions and citizenship or residency status. Check the game show’s official website for specific audition details.

5. How do game shows select contestants?

Game shows have various methods for selecting contestants, including random drawings from eligible applicants, auditions, or referrals. The selection process varies depending on the show’s format and the criteria set by the producers.

Sources:

– “The Business of Television” by Ken Wong and Philip Siddall

– “The Economics of Television” by Bruce Owen

– “Game Show Mania: How To Play, Win, and Enjoy Your Favorite TV Game Shows!” by Jack Marchant