Welcome to Split Second! This game of quick questions and even faster answers is pure excitement and is why Split Second has returned to the air after all these years. People can’t get enough of this witty and fun quiz show! But there’s so much more going on than what you see on your TV.
Learn more about how the Split Second game show has jumped back into popularity and the behind-the-scenes action that ensures everything runs smoothly.
The History of Split Second
The Split Second game show has been around longer than you think. The first version of Split Second aired in 1972 and ran until 1975. The game was rebooted in 1986 with Monty Hall as the host, and now it’s back on the air again with John Michael Higgins taking the lead
What’s the Difference Between the New and Older Versions?
The main difference between the new and old versions of Split Second is the Countdown round and the winner’s bonus round.
In the countdown round, contestants must answer several questions first to win. If they score high in regular play, their number of questions is lower. In older versions, the numbers were close together, for example, three, four, and five for highest, middle, and lowest scores. In the modern version, to make it more fair, the numbers are more spread out among contestants at four, six, and eight, giving the highest-scoring contestant a better advantage.
The other big difference is the winner’s round. In the ‘70s version, the winner would get to play a game of luck to win a car. There was no strategy. In today’s version, producers wanted the end round to fit better with the show’s premise. Now, the winner plays a speed round where they have to answer seven questions right before the time runs out to win $10,000.
Behind the Scenes Trivia
Do you ever wonder what happens behind the scenes or when the camera turns off? Today, you win an exciting prize: a chance to learn the show’s secrets!
What Happens During a Commercial Break?
It may be surprising, but game shows aren’t broadcast live. The filming of the show typically occurs over a 30-45 minute session, allowing for the filming of approximately 5-6 shows per day. When the host announces, “It’s time for a commercial break,” the cameras turn off briefly, giving the crew and contestants a moment to reset before filming resumes.
Contestants and the hosts may get a refreshment and a chance to talk and get to know each other. The crew can check their equipment or take a bathroom break. The host often jokes and entertains the cast, crew, and audience. When everyone’s ready, it’s “lights, cameras, action,” and the game starts again.
How Many People Does It Take to Make an Episode?
On-screen, you only see the three contestants, the host, and maybe a handful of audience members, but there’s so much more behind the cameras. Think camera operators, writers, makeup artists, technicians, producers, and many others working hard to keep things running smoothly. Any one episode may have between 35 and 50 crew members working to make the magic happen.
How Are Contestants Chosen?
The show chooses contestants after they complete an online application with a video and a short quiz. The casting team sorts through the applications and picks contestants who they think would do well on the show based on their broad knowledge. If selected, they’ll be interviewed before they’re approved to compete on the show.
The show may find you even if you don’t fill out an application! When the show first rebooted, few people knew about it, so the team had to find contestants. They frequented trivia nights at local establishments to find people to appear on the show.
Are Contestants Paid?
Contestants only get paid if they win. The winner of each round wins $1,000 just for beating the other two contestants, but they get $10,000 if they win the grand prize. Producers don’t compensate contestants for travel to appear on the show. However, participants still walk away with the experience of an amazing day, making new friends and enjoying full meals and snacks.
Who’s Responsible for Resurrecting Split Second?
Michael Binkow, the show’s executive producer, has a long history with game shows. He watched game shows on TV after school. His career highlights include working on iconic game shows like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Make Me Laugh, and Hollywood Game Night. Michael knew the Split Second game show could succeed and spurred the reboot.
What makes game shows so fun for Michael? He gets to give away money, play games all day, and create a show that leaves people with fun, memorable experiences.
What Does a Filming Day Look Like for Contestants?
Filming days start early (often at six am) and last until the evening. The team will film multiple episodes daily, usually around five at a time. Contestants arrive early, get breakfast, and meet the other contestants and crew members.
The production team will decide which contestants work well together in a competitive but fun dynamic. Contestants form groups of three and take turns filming their episodes. If a contestant films early, they may leave. Contestants who film later in the day will spend their whole day on set enjoying the behind-the-scenes experience.
Are There Ever Any Hiccups?
Like any show, something can and does go wrong. However, these occurrences are few and far between. In rare cases, technology or lights may be an issue.
One of the questions may be a problem—a contestant may have answered in a way the writing team didn’t expect. The team will pause and review the question to ensure the contestants get a fair chance at winning.
How Was the Host Chosen?
John Michael Higgens has starred in hundreds of films and TV shows, making him a widely recognized Hollywood face. He recently hosted the successful show America Says, so he seemed a perfect fit for a new game show. His energetic attitude and personable nature make him an excellent host.
What Makes This Game Show Special?
Split Second isn’t just an entertaining show; it’s an opportunity for contestants to win big and check off that bucket list desire to be on a game show. Every contestant gets the chance of a lifetime to compete and meet so many other people.
If you want to see the Split Second game show and try your hand at answering the questions along with the contestants, watch the show on Game Show Network or visit the website and play online trivia games yourself.