October 09, 2005

By: Gloria Rendell
Website: http://www.1st-in-kids.com

Game Show Network Brings The Popular Word Game Lingo To American Audiences

Game Show Network is bringing the global hit game show, Lingo, to American audiences in August when it airs 20 episodes of the specially-produced U.S. version of the word game featuring host Chuck Woolery. Produced by The Gurin Company, Lingo is a half-hour game show that combines the classic principles of Bingo with a test of word knowledge.

The show is widely popular in numerous countries around the world and is Europe’s longest running game show. The Gurin Company is employing an innovative production approach to producing the U.S. version of Lingo. Lingo is starting production in June and will be taking on the original Dutch set in the Netherlands with host Woolery and American contestants.

This unique approach allows the producer to amortize costs by utilizing the show’s existing infrastructure and resources. In making the announcement, Bob Boden, senior vice president, programming, Game Show Network, said:Lingo is one of the most engaging game shows that I have seen, and it provides excitement for the studio contestants, as well as the viewers at home. You can’t help but play when watching this show. I’m confident that Lingo will become one of the most compelling shows of this season.

Lingo is an exciting balance between skill and chance with an irresistible twist. We’re thrilled that Game Show Network is now bringing this international hit show to the U.S and are pleased that we are able to produce it at lower production costs, commented Phil Gurin, executive producer, The Gurin Company. With veteran game show host Chuck Woolery leading the way, Lingo will be entertaining and challenging for both contestants and viewers.

It’s got something for everyone. Host Chuck Woolery, who is also the host of Greed on the Game Show Network, is known by audiences worldwide for his hosting on such popular classic TV games as Wheel of Fortune, Love Connection, Scrabble and The Dating Game. In addition to his game show hosting duties, the prolific Woolery also hosted his own syndicated talk show and later served as co-host of Home and Family on the Family Channel.

Lingo is a high-energy word-guessing game involving two teams of two who compete against each other to determine who qualifies for the final round. During the first two rounds, the two couples guess five-letter words and select numbers to fill out lines on their pre-assigned Bingo-style card. If they get five marked off spots in a row, they achieve Lingo! Both couples attempt to earn as much money as possible during rounds one and two and during the second round the point values are doubled.

At the end of round two, the couple with the highest score goes on to the final round where they guess a specific number of six-letter words in a set amount of time. If they are successful, then that couple wins the grand prize.

About The Author:

Gloria Rendell is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-kids.com.  Helping parents find kid-approved clothes, toys, games, books, activities and more.