Decades ago, when shows like “Quiz Show” dominated the airwaves, taking part in a game show required a stroke of luck and a whole lot of brains. Decades later, while shows like Jeopardy are only modestly successful, it’s a new wave of game shows like “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?”, “1 Against 100,” “Power of 10” and, more recently, Mega-Hit. Deal or No Deal leading the pack. Many may wonder how a show with average contestants who open cases for money has become the number one show in America.
In fact, it’s Deal or No Deal that will be around long after the legions of competitors have been forgotten. Consumers need to take a step back and ask themselves, “Why are we so enthralled with this simple spectacle?” The answer is simpler than you think, sex appeal, humor, and the chance to make a quick buck. In fact, it’s this unique combination of sex, money, and the enduring wit of our favorite bald man that’s been responsible for three record-breaking seasons, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down.
Aside from Howie and the promise of quick money for some of America’s hottest contestants, Deal or No Deal models are responsible for much of the shows’ success. The producers of the series have done a great job continually curating models to meet the needs of the wide range of viewers. In season 3, the series introduces a model to meet the needs of natives from all corners of the world:
o Anya Monzikova representing Eastern Europeans
o Tameka Jacobs & Alike Boggan representing African Americans
o Mylinda Tov representing Chinese and Western Europeans
o Leyla Milani representing the Middle East
o Lisa Gleave representing the Australians
o Liana Grethel representing Latin Americans
o Aubrie Lemon portraying red-blooded Americans with an inexplicable fascination with blondes
Even Hawaiians have someone to root for like their native Megan Coat! This unique approach to model casting helps create a global community of models and gives the show widespread appeal across many ethnic groups.
The models themselves are clearly the show’s greatest asset, and contrary to common belief, they are more than just pretty faces. In fact, Laura Shields and Aubrie Lemon are qualified to be in MENSA with IQs above 132 (the average American’s IQ is 98). Also, most Deal or No Deal models have a four-year degree and many have advanced degrees. There’s even a lawyer in the house in the form of Stacy Gardener. It’s important to remember that each model possesses unique talents and abilities beyond the ability to look great on stage.
In fact, offstage, these models are doing a lot to benefit the society around them. When Katie Cleary isn’t busy with work, she is helping animals through her involvement with local humane societies. In her downtime, Tameka Jacob remains humble and focuses on helping girls in foster homes and adoption agencies. Aubrie Lemon is active in the National Geographic Society and works to help local animals by participating in a series of events for the Los Angeles Zoo.
As much as the models do for the show, the show has done a great job of promoting many of the show models’ careers into the stratosphere. These days, a seasonal portfolio job warrants Deal or No Deal Models covers on Maxim, appearances on Oprah, and a variety of other side gigs.
It’s a brave new world for Deal or No Deal models, are you ready for it? Stay tuned to find out.